By Matthew Holloway |
Democrat Jonathan Nez conceded to Republican Rep. Eli Crane earlier this week in Arizona’s 2nd Congressional District, congratulating the incumbent on his reelection and saying he hopes the close contest encourages Crane to listen more closely to constituents. Nez’s concession followed the Associated Press’s Monday race call.
“Congratulations to Congressman Eli Crane on his reelection to serve Arizona’s 2nd District,” Nez said. “Phefelia and I will be praying for him and all of our elected leaders. I hope they’ll represent the people well and fight for the working families of Arizona.”
The former Navajo Nation president thanked his campaign staff, volunteers, and supporters, describing the campaign as an effort grounded in faith and focused on issues affecting Arizona families.
“This campaign was built on faith, guided by hope, and ran with a belief that we could help everyday Arizonans,” Nez said. “I’m proud of the movement we built, the campaign we ran, and that we focused on the issues that mattered to Arizonans.”
The Associated Press called the race November 9. At the time of the call, Crane held approximately 49.7% of the reported vote to Nez’s 48.5%. Crane, who has represented the district since January 2023, secured a third term. He previously defeated Nez by approximately nine percentage points in 2024.
Nez attributed the tighter contest to frustration over the country’s direction and the cost of goods, services, fuel, and health care.
Asked what he wanted Democrats to pursue in Washington, Nez emphasized reducing costs and securing infrastructure funding for rural communities. He also left open the possibility of another campaign, telling KJZZ, “Well, you never say no or never.” He said he and his wife would continue working in their communities.
In his concession statement, Nez pledged to remain involved.
“This campaign has come to an end, but the fight for our children, grandchildren, and the next seven generations does not stop,” he wrote. “I will always stand up for the people and communities that make this state strong.”
Crane thanked voters in his own post-election statement and said he would work with others on behalf of the district.
“We have a lot of work to do,” Crane said, “and I’ll work with anyone to get things done for AZ-02.”
Crane’s victory resolved Arizona’s final outstanding congressional race call, leaving Republicans with four of the state’s nine House seats and Democrats with five. Democrats gained the 1st District, where congressman-elect Amish Shah defeated Jay Feely, and the 6th District, where congresswoman-elect JoAnna Mendoza defeated Republican incumbent Rep. Juan Ciscomani.
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
