(The Center Square) – Arizona Republican Congresswoman Debbie Lesko is running for Maricopa County Supervisor in District 4, according to a filing made on Friday.
Lesko announced in October that she would not seek re-election for the Eighth Congressional District.
“I want to spend more time with my husband, my 94-year-old mother, my three children, and five grandchildren,” she said in a statement at the time, The Center Square reported.
Her decision opened the door wide open for a competitive Republican primary race between former Attorney General nominee Abraham Hamadeh, former United States Senate nominee Blake Masters, Arizona House Speaker Ben Toma, state Sen. Anthony Kern, and former Congressman Trent Franks.
Although Lesko has been a supporter of former President Donald Trump, they diverted from each other in their endorsements for her successor. Toma is endorsed by Lesko, whereas Hamadeh is backed by Trump.
As for her own future political ambitions, the congresswoman entered the race following the announcement that Supervisor Clint Hickman would not seek re-election. He was one of several Maricopa County officials who received scrutiny and threats related to elections.
“Thank you Maricopa County Supervisor Clint Hickman for your service to the great people in the West Valley and Maricopa County!” she tweeted on Friday. “I wish you and your family many blessings in your future endeavors. Your work for the people in the West Valley will be remembered.”
Lesko has yet to make a formal campaign launch announcement as of Monday morning. Similar to her congressional district, the supervisor district is also right-leaning.
Other candidates already in the race include veteran Robert Canterbury, Surprise City Councilman Jack Hastings, and county Parks and Recreation Commissioner Dr. Robert Branch.
