Arizona Senate candidate hopes to change the tone of political debate

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - A Democratic candidate for the Arizona State Senate says she's speaking out after experiencing vandalism and online harassment during her campaign.

Laura Huber says campaign signs of hers have been stolen or vandalized dozens of times, calling the experience discouraging.

She also says she's received a wave of negative comments on social media. While Huber expected some criticism when she decided to run for office, she says she didn't expect it to reach this level.

Rather than staying quiet, Huber says she wants to bring attention to the issue and encourage more respectful political conversations.

She believes elected leaders should set the tone by modeling empathy, respect and ethical behavior.

Huber also says she hopes the negativity doesn't stop people from getting involved in politics or serving their communities, regardless of their political party.

When asked what role policy could play in addressing online harassment, Huber said the challenge is finding a balance between protecting free speech and reducing abusive behavior that serves no positive purpose.

She says she plans to continue the conversation about making it safer to run for office and encouraging more people to participate in public service.