Schweikert Leads Tight Race in Arizona

In Arizona's First Congressional District, incumbent Republican David Schweikert has regained a lead over Democratic challenger Amish Shah after initial results showed Shah leading on election night. As of Wednesday evening, Schweikert held 51.2% of the vote compared to Shah's 48.8%, with about 1.5 million ballots counted out of 2.1 million. The Maricopa County Elections Department has indicated that final results may take up to 10 to 13 days to be fully tallied, as they continue processing ballots received before Election Day. Schweikert's campaign has focused on fiscal conservatism, resonating with voters concerned about the economy, which was a top issue for 32% of voters in exit polls. Shah, an emergency room doctor, is pushing for universal healthcare and has been buoyed by an abortion rights measure that may have increased voter turnout. The race remains too close to call, with the Associated Press yet to project a winner.