Tucson’s Critical Forum on Election Security & Voter Intimidation This Saturday

Tucson is set to host a key forum this Saturday aimed at addressing voter concerns and election security. As misinformation about election safety proliferates, local officials are on high alert for potential voter intimidation and harassment of election workers during the November 5 elections.

The exodus of experienced election personnel in Arizona is alarming. Former congressman Ron Barber highlighted the issue, stating, “We’ve lost a lot of seasoned election officials.” Barber noted significant personnel losses across 12 of Arizona’s 15 counties, citing the impact of recent threats as a major factor undermining institutional knowledge and operational efficiency.

Pima County Deputy Elections Director Jeremy George and Pinal County Recorder Dana Lewis will share their strategies at the forum, which starts at 10 a.m. on September 20 at the Junior League headquarters, located at 2099 E. River Rd. Participants can arrive early for refreshments starting at 9 a.m.

Additional forums and events are scheduled in the lead-up to the election. On September 26, candidates for the Catalina Foothills Unified School Board will face off, sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Greater Tucson. This forum will take place at 5:30 p.m. in the same venue, featuring four candidates vying for two seats.

On September 28, Pima County Supervisor Adelita Grijalva, running for a second term, will meet with independent challenger Val Romero, also organized by the League of Women Voters. This event will be held at the Quincie-Douglas Library, located at 1585 E. 36th St.

The political climate heats up further with a debate on October 7 between U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani and his Democratic challenger, Kirsten Engel. This rematch is significant as Engel narrowly lost in 2022 in a district that leans GOP. The debate will air on select media outlets, highlighting the tension leading up to Election Day.

Key dates for voters include October 7, the last day to register for the general election. Early ballots will be mailed on October 9, and the deadline to request these ballots is October 25. Finally, all eyes will be on November 5 as Arizona heads to the polls.