Six Candidates Compete for Tucson's District 5 Supervisor Seat

The race to fill the vacant District 5 seat on the Pima County Board of Supervisors has intensified, with six candidates actively presenting their platforms in a virtual forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of Greater Tucson. The candidates—Andrés Cano, Karla Bernal Morales, Cynthia Abril Sosa Ontiveros, Lewis David Araiza, Sr., Kimberly Baeza, and Richard Hernandez—discussed key issues such as housing, workforce development, and community support. Cano, who has extensive local experience, emphasized the need for budget efficiency, while Morales highlighted her commitment to community-driven leadership. Araiza focused on employment opportunities, expressing a desire to achieve zero unemployment, and Baeza advocated for creative solutions to budget challenges. The Board of Supervisors is expected to make their decision on the new appointee by April 15, with the chosen candidate serving until December 31, 2026. The vacancy follows the resignation of Adelita Grijalva, who is campaigning for a U.S. House seat.