The scheduled Chandler City Council runoff election between incumbent Christine Ellis and challenger Joseph Yang is sparking partisan scrutiny due to concerns over Chandler’s DEI policy and Ellis’ support of the Springfield, Ohio, Haitian migrants. The runoff, scheduled concurrent to the Presidential election, is needed because neither candidate received at least 50% of the total votes cast. Two other incumbents, OD Harris and Jennifer Hawkins, secured their positions in the primary.

The city of Chandler boasts a robust  Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) program led by a dedicated department that promotes community engagement, cultural events, and “equitable” access to services. Guided by a strategic plan, Chandler’s DEI achievements earned national recognition with the 2024 ICMA Award for Community Equity and Inclusion.  Ellis promoted Chandler’s DEI program with a video on X, in which Ellis claimed that “equity” creates a level playing field where everyone “has the same chance.” Her opponents are using that video as a reason not to support her.

In addition, Ellis faces scrutiny over her position on the Haitian migrant issue in Springfield, Ohio. Ellis, who emigrated to the United States from Haiti when she was 17, is a member of the National Haitian-American Elected Officials Network (NHAEON) leadership team. The organization vehemently criticized former President Donald Trump and Senator JD Vance throughout this election cycle. On social media, the organization announced plans for a national virtual press conference to address concerns over what they describe as “xenophobic and racist lies” perpetuated by Trump and Vance.

NHAEON condemned the Trump and Vance rhetoric, accusing them of causing insecurity within the Springfield community, particularly affecting the Haitian population. They emphasized that these issues extend beyond the Haitian community, impacting the broader Springfield area. The organization criticized Trump and Vance for using immigration issues as political tools, accusing them of scapegoating legal immigrant communities. NHAEON pointed out that these communities help revitalize local economies, and Trump and Vance are exploiting the topic for political gain.

Ellis’ is quoted as saying her concern is for the Haitian immigrants. “It is NHAEON’s goal to visit Springfield to check on the community there,” Ellis said. “As you can see, our job of caring and loving each other is not over.” Despite her less incendiary comments, her connection to NHAEON may impact her support among Chandler voters.

Ellis is endorsed by Democrat Congressman Greg Stanton (CD4), while Yang is supported by the grassroots conservative organization AZ Free Enterprise. Although this race is considered nonpartisan, both contenders are purported to be Republicans. Historically, Chandler tends to lean Republican, which may help Yang. However, Ellis has an advantage with name recognition as a sitting city councilmember.