Democratic LD23 candidate Emilia Cortez hosts campaign fundraiser, ballot drop event

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Democratic Arizona House of Representatives candidate Emilia Cortez met with supporters Thursday evening during a campaign fundraiser and community discussion in Downtown Yuma.

The event, held at Pint House Bar and Grill, gave attendees an opportunity to hear directly from Cortez about her campaign priorities while participating in a moderated discussion focused on issues affecting Legislative District (LD) 23.

Supporters also encouraged civic participation by inviting attendees to bring their completed mail ballots. After the discussion, participants walked together to a nearby ballot drop box to cast their ballots.

"We're trying to make sure that the community, we do as a group. Everybody has their individual ballot and kind of also fundraise," Cortez said.

Another supporter said Cortez's commitment to representing Yuma County motivated them to attend.

"I strongly believe in her representation for Yuma County. And I'm here to make sure that we get her elected," Jason Bradley, an event organizer, said.

In addition to the discussion, community members had time to speak one-on-one with Cortez and ask questions about her campaign.

Cortez is a Democratic candidate seeking one of Arizona House of Representatives' two seats in LD23 in the 2026 election.

The event was one of several campaign stops aimed at engaging voters ahead of Election Day.