LD23 candidates advance to November election

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Voters in Arizona's Legislative District (LD) 23 have made their choices in the primary election, setting up the candidates who will compete for two seats in the Arizona House of Representatives this November.

On the Democratic side, Yuma native Emilia Cortez says she's passionate about representing the district's Latino community and bringing more voices to the State Capitol.

"We all come with unique stories. We all come with unique ideas that make a pathway to improve our communities. So that’s what I want to do for LD23 is really voice that up," Cortez said.

On the Republican side, Gary Garcia Snyder says he sees himself as a community-focused candidate who wants to prioritize education and remain accessible to residents.

"We should be working forward for the community that you live in...That you understand the values of the cost, everything that’s going on within our community and being a part of it. And that's me, just a regular individual that lives the same way and understands what we need to fix," Snyder said.

Cortez will appear on the November ballot alongside incumbent Democrat Mariana Sandoval, while Snyder will run alongside Republican incumbent Michele Peña.

In a statement, Sandoval said she is grateful for the opportunity to continue serving LD23, adding that her priorities include making Arizona more affordable, strengthening schools, and protecting access to healthcare.

The four candidates will now prepare for the general election in November.

The candidates will compete in November to represent LD23 at the State Capitol, where lawmakers will vote on issues including the state budget, education, healthcare, and public safety.