After a three-month summer hiatus, Maris Bears, president of the Northwest Valley Democrats Club opened the meeting Sept. 11 at the Sun City West Foundation.

Francesca Martin, deputy director of the Keep America Blue Student Coalition, is  a political science major at Arizona State University. Her presentation included  several election data points affecting Generation Z  (Zoomers, aged 18 to 29) voters. 

While Gen Z students may register to vote, a high percentage never do vote.  They need to be presented with accurate and information they can understand as being relevant to their lives.  Many Gen Z students rely on social media as am source of their political information.

Keep Arizona Blue Student Coalition is a youth-founded, youth-led PAC, that is turning out Gen-Z voters for Democrats up and down the ballot. It is not paid for, nor endorsed by any individual candidates, but it strives to educate and motivate Gen Z student Voters to vote and Vote to keep Arizona Blue.

Patty Hoffer, Legislative District 28 volunteer coordinator gave an update on the status of activities which have taken place over the summer. She stressed that many volunteer opportunities are still available as the November elections  get closer. 

Four county-wide democratic candidates briefly spoke about their campaigns, as each addressed a few issues with the current incumbents, as they then presented their positions and gave insight into what changes they would implement after being elected to improve the efficiency of their positions in better serving their constituents in Maricopa County.

County Recorder Candidate Tim Stringham provided some background on his qualifications to be elected as county recorder. He sees his role as ensuring voter lists are accurate and complete, and that all voting procedures are followed in ensuring the integrity of all our future elections.

Arizona Corporation Commission candidates Ylenia Aguila and Jonathan Hill both spoke about the relevance of the commission and what role it plays by regulating the rates charged by the large utility companies. Both addressed current issues within the commission, offering their perspectives on what they will try to implement as corrective measures, once elected.  

Maricopa County Sheriff Candidate Tyler Kamp spoke about his many years of experience at the Phoenix Police Department, living and working abroad with non-profit organizations fighting human trafficking, and working alongside non-profits here in Maricopa County.  Kamp said, it is not only about bringing his extensive law enforcement and management experience to the role, but also about infusing the office with accountability, ethical leadership and a relentless pursuit of justice.  He feels he brings a wealth of experience and innovative ideas to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, as past issues still plague the office today.