Meet the candidates for the Arizona Senate District 23

Two Democrat and one Republican candidates are running to represent Arizona Legislative District 23 in the Senate in the July 30 primary election.

LD-23 covers swaths of Yuma County, Pima County, Pinal County, and western Maricopa County, including sections of Avondale, Buckeye and Goodyear. 

Incumbent Brian Fernandez (D-Yuma) is seeking reelection to his senate seat, with a Republican and Democrat seeking to unseat him. 

Michelle Altherr, Republican

Michelle Altherr served as an adjudicator for the 2020 election and was an observer and manager in the Senate audit. Altherr also served as the Marshal for the 2022 Primary and General elections. Considered an election integrity candidate, she is running for the Arizona Senate to become more involved in the process.

Altherr is frequently seen with Kari Lake in her social media posts.

Altherr served in the Air Force for 15 years. Her support for protecting children, legal immigration, the border wall, and her unwavering focus on election integrity reflects her values and principles.

Michelle Altherr's personal life represents her values and motivations. She has been married to Frank for 34 years, and together, they have raised a son, a daughter-in-law, and a grandson—her deep concern for her children's future drives her decision to run for office.

Brian Fernandez, Democrat

Brian Fernandez is LD-23’s current state senator.

Fernandez’s grandparents immigrated to Arizona and eventually worked hard to allow Fernandez and his mother to graduate from college.

A Yuma native said he campaigns to bring affordable housing to communities like Yuma. He also hopes to address stagnating wages, rising gas and food prices, teacher salaries and school budgets.

Fernandez is running for reelection for his home and native Arizona’s State Senate district.

Jesus Lugo Jr., Democrat

Jesus Lugo Jr., I’m running for State Senate in District 23 as a lifelong resident of his border community. He advocates for the opportunities, resources, and leadership our district deserves. Lugo holds a Master’s degree, over 15 years of political experience, and 17 years as a community organizer and activist. Lugo has a background in mental health, substance abuse, immigration, and law. Lugo prioritizes a vision for economic growth, education, healthcare, and social justice.

Lugo is running in the Democratic primary to unseat Fernandez as the current state senator for LD 23.