U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani’s (R-AZ-06) reelection campaign released a new advertisement last week featuring an injured combat veteran who identifies himself as a registered Democrat and credits the congressman with speaking up on his behalf.
In the advertisement, the veteran describes seeking assistance from Ciscomani.
“I’m an injured combat veteran. I wish you could hear my desperation, my frustration, what’s happened to me,” he says. “I am a registered Democrat, but I chose to reach out to him because I was at the end of my rope.”
Chris is an injured combat veteran. He’s also a registered Democrat.
When he had nowhere else to turn, he called my office. We answered. And we delivered.
“He has spoken out for me, spoken up for me. He definitely put me as a person over politics,” he says.
The campaign identifies Chris as a resident of the Sixth District. The advertisement does not specify the underlying case or describe a particular benefits decision or other outcome.
“This is what public service is supposed to look like,” Ciscomani said. “It doesn’t matter if you’re a Republican, a Democrat, or an independent. If you’re a resident of AZ-06, especially a veteran who served this country and needs help, my office will show up for you.”
Ciscomani is seeking reelection against Democrat JoAnna Mendoza in Arizona’s Sixth Congressional District, which includes portions of Pima, Pinal, Cochise, and Graham counties and all of Greenlee County.
In an endorsement announcement in July, the campaign listed 11 current and former county supervisors supporting Ciscomani. The Democratic endorsers included former Pima County Supervisor Sharon Bronson, Graham County Supervisor Paul David, and Greenlee County Supervisor David Gomez. Greenlee County Supervisor Will Wearne was identified as an independent.
The new advertisement’s focus on veterans follows legislative efforts involving education benefits, health care, and homeownership. Ciscomani’s congressional office says nearly 80,000 veterans live in the district and that four veteran-focused bills he led passed the House during the current Congress.
Among those measures is the Veterans Education and Technical Skills Opportunity Act, H.R. 1458, which the House passed Feb. 2, 2026. The legislation would expand access to qualifying certificate and technical training programs through the GI Bill, including certain programs offered in a hybrid format.
The measure also addresses protections for National Guard and Reserve students called to active duty during a semester. Ciscomani’s office said it would allow eligible students to receive grades for substantially completed coursework rather than having to repeat it.
Ciscomani also co-led the VA Home Loan Affordability Act, H.R. 8532, with Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-WI). An announcement from Ciscomani’s office in May described the proposal as an effort to remove barriers in the Department of Veterans Affairs’ home loan process, particularly for veterans in rural communities.
Beyond legislation, Ciscomani’s office reported in May that it worked with the VA to reopen a Vet Center Outstation in Sierra Vista, providing mental health care and other resources at no cost to veterans. During that district work period, Ciscomani also visited the Northwest VA Clinic with VA Secretary Doug Collins and met with veterans and service organizations.
“I am here to serve everyone in the district, regardless of party,” Ciscomani said.
The Arizona Republican Party is circulating an allegation that a person identified online as a volunteer for Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs took a package from a residential porch while canvassing. Screenshots from the posted footage show the person carrying a LUCHA Blue voter information flyer.
Robert Contreras, whose X bio identifies him with Turning Point Action’s Chase the Vote effort in the Gila River Region and as co-chair of the Pima County Young Republicans, shared the doorbell-camera video, writing, “Katie Hobbs volunteer steals package off someone’s porch while knocking.”
The Arizona Republican Party amplified the accusation, writing, “This is who supports Governor Katie Hobbs.” The party also questioned whether Attorney General Kris Mayes would give the person a pass if she declined an interview with investigators.
This is who supports Governor Katie Hobbs.
If they catch this thief, will AZ AG Kris Mayes giver her a pass if she refuses to sit for an interview with investigators?
The party’s reference to an investigative interview appears to invoke the Sunshine Residential Homes investigation. Hobbs declined an in-person interview but submitted two written statements through her attorneys denying wrongdoing. Mayes declined to prosecute Hobbs following the investigation into political contributions and state decisions benefiting the group-home provider.
One video posted by Contreras shows a person holding a flyer toward a Vivint doorbell camera. Another video shows the person bending down and reaching toward an item on the porch. In that video, the person leaves with a package that was already on the porch and takes it to their car.
Close-up images reviewed by AZ Free News identify the flyer as LUCHA Blue material, displaying election dates and directing readers to the organization’s website. A disclaimer states that the communication was not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.
Contreras described the person as a Hobbs volunteer. The posts supplied for this report do not explain how that affiliation was established. The flyer identifies the political material being distributed, while the person’s employment or volunteer relationship remains unconfirmed.
The quoted posts do not identify the person accused, specify the incident’s date or location, or provide a police report number. The materials reviewed do not establish whether the homeowner reported a theft or whether law enforcement has opened an investigation.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced preliminary fiscal year 2026 data showing a 95% decline in southwest border apprehensions compared with annual levels under the Biden administration. The data also showed the lowest annual nationwide encounters in CBP history.
According to the CBP, fiscal year 2026 marked the first time in agency history that the U.S. Border Patrol completed an entire fiscal year without releasing migrants into the United States.
September also marked the 17th consecutive month with zero Border Patrol releases.
The preliminary figures show that Border Patrol agents recorded 98,708 apprehensions along the southwest border during FY26, compared to an annual average exceeding 1.8 million under former President Joe Biden.
The total was also approximately 60% lower than the 249,740 apprehensions recorded during the highest single month under the Biden administration, according to DHS.
That’s right. ZERO releases for an entire fiscal year. Lowest nationwide encounters in CBP history. Our agents have worked hard for these results, and we are keeping our foot on the gas. pic.twitter.com/nVmR8WLwK5
“President Trump promised the American people a secure border, and the data proves he delivered,” stated DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin. “Over the past year, CBP recorded its lowest numbers in American history. A stark contrast to Biden, where CBP recorded its highest illegal immigration numbers ever.”
Nationwide encounters also fell to a reported 379,243 during FY26, compared to an annual average of approximately 2.7 million under the previous administration.
The latest figures represent an 88% decline from FY23, when encounters reached their highest annual level.
CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott attributed the decline to increased enforcement efforts and cooperation among federal agencies.
“FY 2026 demonstrated what focused enforcement, strong partnerships, and the commitment of our frontline personnel can achieve,” said Scott. “DHS and CBP are securing the border, stopping dangerous drugs and criminals, protecting communities, and ensuring our personnel have the resources necessary for this critical mission.”
The agency also reported a nearly 80% decline in migrant deaths identified by Border Patrol during FY26 and since President Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025, compared to levels under the Biden administration.
Despite the reduction in crossings, CBP personnel continued conducting search-and-rescue operations and providing emergency medical assistance.
During FY26, CBP’s Office of Field Operations responded to more than 3,000 medical emergencies, performed CPR on more than 50 individuals experiencing cardiac arrest, and administered naloxone to individuals experiencing suspected opioid overdoses.
In addition to declining border crossings, CBP reported completing 250 miles of new border barriers along the southwest border since January 2025. The construction includes primary and secondary barriers, waterborne barriers, and supporting surveillance technology.
The agency also obligated approximately $34.3 billion between September 2025 and September 2026 toward Smart Wall projects across the southwest border states, using funding provided through the Working Families Tax Cut Act.
CBP also reported higher drug seizure totals during the fiscal year.
Preliminary figures show the agency seized nearly 1 million pounds of illegal drugs nationwide, approximately 63% above the annual average of 600,000 pounds recorded during the previous four years.
“The results could not be clearer: strong enforcement works,” added Mullin. “Thanks to President Trump’s leadership and the hard work of CBP and DHS law enforcement personnel, we have restored control of the border and made America safer than ever.”
Beyond border enforcement, CBP reported stopping more than 4,000 shipments valued at over $325 million due to suspected forced labor violations. The agency also seized approximately 55.5 million counterfeit items with an estimated value exceeding $12.6 billion.
Among those seizures were 476,903 counterfeit items associated with FIFA World Cup intellectual property valued at more than $33 million.
DHS officials attributed the reduction in unlawful border crossings to the administration’s immigration enforcement policies and investments in border infrastructure, while highlighting increased drug seizures and trade enforcement efforts during FY26.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low-interest federal disaster loans for small businesses and private nonprofit organizations experiencing financial losses from flash flooding at Grand Canyon National Park earlier this year.
The disaster declaration, issued October 13, follows a request from Governor Katie Hobbs on October 8 and provides assistance to eligible organizations affected by flooding that occurred between August 29 and September 3.
The declaration covers five Arizona counties, including Coconino, Gila, Mohave, Navajo, and Yavapai, as well as Kane and San Juan Counties in Utah.
Through the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and private nonprofit organizations, including faith-based organizations, can apply for loans of up to $2 million to help offset financial losses directly related to the flooding.
The loans are intended to provide working capital for operating expenses that businesses and nonprofits would have otherwise been able to cover had the disaster not occurred. Eligible expenses include fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other financial obligations.
Businesses and nonprofits may qualify for assistance even if they did not sustain physical property damage.
Interest rates are as low as 4% for businesses and 3.625% for private nonprofit organizations, with repayment terms extending up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not required until 12 months after the first loan disbursement.
The SBA determines loan eligibility, amounts, and repayment terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
“SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” stated Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the SBA’s Office of Disaster Recovery. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”
Congressman Eli Crane (R-AZ-02), whose congressional district includes Grand Canyon National Park, also announced the availability of the disaster assistance, encouraging affected businesses and nonprofit organizations to explore the federal program.
Following the devastating flash floods at @GrandCanyonNPS, @SBAgov has approved a disaster declaration for several counties.
If your small business suffered economic losses as a result, I encourage you to see if you qualify for a low-interest loan: pic.twitter.com/cYlcE7aMYg
“If your business or nonprofit experienced challenges caused by the flooding, I encourage you to review this avenue of assistance from the SBA,” stated Crane. “The EIDL program offers eligible applicants low-interest loans, which can help offset losses from this tragic disaster.”
Crane also emphasized the importance of continued recovery efforts for Grand Canyon communities and highlighted recent congressional action involving the North Rim Restoration Act of 2025.
“Although it’s been a difficult period for park staff, gateway communities, and local businesses, my team and I are committed to doing everything we can to assist with the recovery effort,” added Crane. “Between this week’s announcement and recent Senate action on the North Rim Restoration Act of 2025, I’m hopeful we can help deliver long-term stability to this cherished place.”
Eligible businesses and nonprofit organizations have until July 13, 2027, to submit economic injury disaster loan applications.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
Democratic congressional nominee Amish Shah’s campaign reported financial support from the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) PAC. HRC opposed the same restrictions on gender transition surgeries for minors and girls’ sports participation in Arizona that Shah voted against as a state lawmaker.
Shah’s campaign disclosed two in-kind contributions totaling $152.66. The entries list a $50 press release contribution dated Aug. 21 and $102.66 in signage dated Sept. 18. The contributions provided campaign materials and services.
The press release entry coincided with HRC PAC’s endorsement of Shah for Arizona’s First Congressional District. In announcing its endorsement, the organization described the race as important to securing a congressional majority supporting its policy priorities.
“The Human Rights Campaign is proud to endorse [Amish Shah’s] candidacy and to work to get him elected this November,” HRC President Kelley Robinson said.
Arizonans, you deserve a champion who will address the real issues — let’s send Dr. Amish Shah to Congress and help secure a pro-equality majority!
— Human Rights Campaign Rapid Response (@HRC) August 21, 2026
The endorsement announcement’s disclaimer identifies Human Rights Campaign PAC as paying for the communication and states that Amish for Arizona authorized it.
Shah responded to the endorsement in a statement describing himself as “a longtime ally of Arizona’s LGBTQ+ community” and saying he was “proud to fight for the community in my time in the State House.”
The endorsement and reported contributions have drawn criticism from the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC), which pointed to Shah’s votes on legislation involving minors’ surgeries, school athletics, and restroom access.
“Arizona families don’t agree with Socialist Amish Shah’s extreme views like backing child transgender sex change surgeries or men in women’s sports. But that’s exactly the far-left agenda Socialist Shah would pursue in Washington if elected,” NRCC spokesman Ben Petersen said.
Shah voted against Senate Bill 1138, which prohibited physicians from providing specified irreversible gender reassignment surgeries to patients younger than 18. The House passed the measure 31–26 on March 24, 2022, and then-Gov. Doug Ducey signed it March 30.
The law’s definition includes mastectomies, breast augmentation, and specified genital procedures performed for gender transition. It preserves exceptions involving certain disorders of sex development, treatment of complications from previous procedures, and physical conditions requiring surgery to prevent imminent death or impairment of a major bodily function. Its prohibition addresses surgical procedures.
HRC urged Ducey to veto SB 1138, arguing that lawmakers were interfering with healthcare decisions involving transgender children and their families.
“It is simply not the job of legislators to make healthcare decisions for the families who this legislation will directly impact,” HRC Arizona State Director Bridget Sharpe said.
The same statement opposed Senate Bill 1165, the Save Women’s Sports Act, which Shah also voted against. That legislation required covered school athletic teams to be designated according to biological sex and prohibited students of the male sex from participating on teams designated for females, women, or girls.
The sports measure covered public schools and private schools competing against them, including institutions of higher education. It permitted female students to participate on teams designated for males and preserved coeducational competition. The House approved it 31–24, with five members not voting, on March 24, 2022.
After Ducey signed both bills March 30, HRC issued a statement condemning his decision, expressly identifying the surgery and sports restrictions.
Shah had previously opposed House Bill 2706, a 2020 proposal restricting participation on female school athletic teams based on biological sex. The House passed that bill 31–29, with all Democrats voting against it. The measure subsequently stalled in the Senate Rules Committee and never received a Senate floor vote.
His voting record also includes opposition to Senate Bill 1040, a 2023 proposal governing public school restrooms, changing facilities, and sleeping accommodations.
The bill would have required reasonable accommodations for people unwilling or unable to use facilities designated for their sex. Possible accommodations included single-occupancy or employee facilities. The proposal excluded accommodations allowing access to opposite-sex restrooms or changing facilities when others were or could be present. It also would have authorized lawsuits under specified circumstances involving access to facilities designated for the opposite sex.
Shah voted against the measure when the House passed it 31–27 on May 15, 2023. Gov. Katie Hobbs vetoed it June 8.
Shah faces Republican nominee Jay Feely in Arizona’s First Congressional District.
Pima County voters will decide on Election Day in November whether to increase the spending cap by 75%, from $817 million to more than $1.4 billion.
Proposition 425 would increase the county’s permanent base, or expenditure, limit that aids in calculating the county’s spending limit under state law.
Arizona law requires all counties, cities, and towns to limit how much local revenue may be spent. Counties and municipalities calculate expenditure limits by multiplying the amount spent in fiscal year 1979-80 by the estimated growth in population and a measure of inflation.
The county spent $1.8 billion and accrued a revenue of $2.1 billion in fiscal year 2026-2027. Estimates from the county show that it has utilized at or near 100% of its expenditure limit since 2001.
The county FAQ page states that the approval of Proposition 425 would add $70 million to its 1979-80 expenditure base. As noted by Scott Day Freeman, an attorney with the Goldwater Institute, a Phoenix-based public policy and litigation firm, the $70 million was based on 1980 dollars rather than 2026 dollars.
According to the ballot language, the $70 million is actually more than $610 million when adjusting each future year for population and inflation growth since 1980.
In the proposition, the county stated that it doesn’t anticipate approaching full utilization of the increased expenditure limit for another 20 years at least.
Pima County Supervisor Rex Scott told KOLD that the county will continue to run out its expenditure limit in the years to come. Scott said that the expenditure limit by design has failed to keep up with modern budgeting needs.
“What we know from looking at our own expenditure and revenue projections is that we’re going to bump up against that expenditure limit in the next two to three years,” said Scott.
The county also stated that the spending cap increase would not authorize any new tax or raise any existing tax, and would be allowing the county to spend existent revenue that it cannot legally touch.
Pima County Supervisor Steve Christy toldThe Center Square that he had concerns with how the board plans to spend the money, which he called a “blank check,” if the proposition is approved. Christy said he believes the board has failed to target spending on “core foundational matters,” citing infrastructure, road repair, public transportation, and public safety.
“They want to have the ability and flexibility to spend more money by removing these cap restrictions,” said Christy.
Some citizens believe the county’s ask is too great.
A coalition of these citizens formed the bipartisan “No on Prop 425” campaign to try to dissuade voters from approving an expenditure limit increase. The campaign’s co-chairs, State Sen. Sally Gonzales (LD-20), a Democrat, and Jay Tolkhoff, a former Republican candidate for Tucson City Council, believe the spending cap increase is too large.
Despite what the county promised, Tolkhoff said he worries the increase would eventually cause property taxes to be raised.
“They can say, you know, no taxes,” said Tolkhoff. “You start spending more money; that money’s going to come from some place, and it’s going to come from higher property taxes.”
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