A self-described Democratic Socialist is positioned to become the first openly affiliated member of the movement in the Arizona Legislature after narrowly defeating a three-term Democratic incumbent in a southern Arizona primary.
Miranda Lopez, 31, secured the second Democratic nomination for the Arizona House in Legislative District 21, finishing ahead of state Rep. Stephanie Stahl Hamilton in the four-candidate race. The Arizona Republic reported that Lopez would be the first Democratic Socialists of America member elected to the Legislature if she wins in November. Stahl Hamilton conceded Monday after seeking a fourth House term.
Lopez and Democratic state Rep. Consuelo Hernandez will face Republican Christopher Kibbey in the Nov. 3 general election. The district includes parts of Tucson, Nogales and Bisbee and favored Democrats by nearly 21 percentage points in recent major elections, making Lopez a strong favorite. All primary votes have been counted, but the results still require certification.
Lopez said labor unions introduced her to socialist politics. She told the Republic that voters want Democrats to “recognize capitalism for the oppressive system that it is.” The former Pima County Democratic Party Executive Director says her priorities include reducing living costs and limiting the influence of corporate money.
Lopez said in a pre-primary KOLD interview that she wants to eliminate Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account program and redirect the funding to public schools. The state-funded accounts currently cover private-school tuition, tutoring, curricula, and educational supplies.
Lopez joined a five-candidate progressive effort called “No Safe Seats,” which targeted Democrats accused of siding too often with Republicans. Hernandez, one of the group’s principal targets, finished first and could now become Lopez’s seatmate. Democrats remain in the minority in both legislative chambers, meaning Lopez would need Republican support to advance major proposals.
