Arizona’s LD23 Race Tightens as Republicans Aim to Secure Both Chambers

On Election Day, the Arizona Globe caught up with State Representative Michael Carbone (R-25), who appeared optimistic and energized as he shared his thoughts on the 2024 races. Confident in his own path to victory, Carbone’s presence at the polling site wasn’t just about his campaign—it was about standing alongside LD-23 Representative Michele Peña, a colleague he praised highly.

Carbone expressed genuine admiration for Peña, calling her “a rockstar” and highlighting her resilience in the face of significant challenges. “She’s a quick learner and a true asset to our team. We need her back in the House,” he stated firmly.

Peña’s 2022 win had been one of the most talked-about victories for Republicans, delivering the deciding seat that tipped the balance of power in their favor. Her success, however, had also made her a prime target for the Democrats, who poured substantial resources into unseating her this time around. For Carbone, Peña’s re-election was more than just keeping a seat; it was about preserving the values and policies he believes the state needs to thrive.

A Republican strategist emphasized Michele Peña’s critical role in the Arizona legislature, stating, “Michele’s win gave us the majority, and she’s been pivotal in advancing policies that support families, protect school choice, and uphold our community values. Arizona needs more leaders like her,” he added, underscoring the high stakes of this election.

At the busy Goodyear polling site, voters turned out in massive lines, demonstrating high engagement. To assist with the lengthy wait times, Turning Point Action volunteers actively transported voters to facilities with shorter lines on “party buses,” ensuring everyone could cast their ballots without delay.

“We simply can’t afford to lose leaders like Michelle,” State Representative Michael Carbone told the Arizona Globe, reiterating the importance of Peña’s re-election to maintaining the conservative agenda in Arizona.

Twenty-four hours after the polls closed, early results show Peña with a lead, suggesting her seat may be secure. Reflecting on the campaign’s collective effort, the Yuma legislator told the Arizona Globe, “This victory was a group effort. Our community came together, and I’m grateful for everyone who made their voice heard.”

The Arizona State Senate race in Legislative District 23 has become an unexpected battleground this year, with incumbent Democrat Brian Fernandez locked in a tight contest against Republican newcomer Michelle Altherr. Altherr, who has self-funded her campaign with over $17,000 and received minimal outside support—just $255 from an external group—is proving to be a formidable challenger. Fernandez, a Yuma native and seasoned legislator who moved from the Arizona House to the Senate in 2023, is facing a competitive fight against Altherr, a 15-year U.S. Air Force veteran with deep ties to the local Latino community.

The race has seen multiple lead changes, underscoring its unpredictability. As of Wednesday night, with 61.17% of the vote reported, Fernandez holds a narrow lead of just 912 votes, with 25,049 votes to Altherr’s 24,137. With such a slim margin, the outcome remains uncertain, keeping campaigns and district residents on edge.

Republicans appear likely to retain control of the Arizona Senate, even without counting the outcome in Legislative District 23. While the House remains a tighter race, conservatives are optimistic that their current leads will hold, potentially securing Republican majorities in both chambers.

With the last ballot drop AZ Senate Republicans now leading 16 to 14.

— Warren Petersen (@votewarren) November 7, 2024