Arizona State House District 23

Current seat holder: Michele Peña, Mariana Sandoval.

Gary Garcia Snyder

Gary Garcia Snyder

“Thank you for the Nomination,as a proud Mexican American raised in a conservative military family, which shaped my deep respect for America’s founding values.” (AZ Clean Elections 2026 Voter Education Guide)
“I’ve long stood with law enforcement, first responders, military families, and defenders of our Second Amendment rights.” (AZ Clean Elections 2026 Voter Education Guide)
“With your vote, I’ll focus on critical issues Arizona Affordability Crisis, family safety, Elections,veterans housing,Mental Health,water and agriculture, infrastructure, Tech,Youth Athletics,SNAP,Native Americans,Immigrant and Daca Legal pathways,affordable housing, jobs, economic development, fight against BioSolids and Data Centers.” (AZ Clean Elections 2026 Voter Education Guide)

Michele Peña

Michele Peña is a Republican incumbent member of and candidate for Arizona House of Representatives District 23 in the November 3, 2026 general election.

· Official legislative page

Campaign site

“Every child is unique, and parents are best suited to determine their education choices. That’s why I support Arizona’s Universal Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA), a program that continues to grow and should not surprise naysayers claiming ESAs would harm public school funding.” (Campaign website (accessed Oct 23, 2026))
“Your zip code shouldn’t dictate your future, and I will always advocate for choice and access in education.” (Campaign website (accessed Oct 23, 2026))
“Water is the lifeblood of our communities, and I will resist any efforts to diminish or restrict water access for the people of Arizona – especially our farmers.” (Campaign website (accessed Oct 23, 2026))

Emilia Cortez

Emilia Cortez earned an associate degree from Arizona Western College in 2011, a bachelor's degree from Northern Arizona University in 2011, and additional education from the University of Arizona in 2024. Her career experience includes working in public administration.

Campaign site

“1. Rooted in the community I want voters to know that I am from this district, understand the needs of our rural and border communities, and have spent years serving families, children, and local organizations. • 2. Focused on everyday issues My priorities are affordable childcare, strong public schools, access to healthcare, economic opportunity, and making sure working families have the support they need to thrive. • 3. Leadership that listens I believe LD23 deserves leadership that is accessible, respectful, and connected to the people.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey (2026))
“I am passionate about policies that support working families, children, and rural communities. Affordable childcare is one of my top priorities because parents should not have to choose between working and finding safe, reliable care for their children. I also care deeply about strengthening public education, expanding access to healthcare, and creating economic opportunities in rural and border communities like LD23 is.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey (2026))

Mariana Sandoval

Mariana Sandoval was born in southern California and lives in Goodyear, Arizona. Her career experience includes working as a paralegal and at the Arizona Attorney General's Office.

· Official legislative page

Campaign site

“The needs and priorities of working people in Arizona continue to be overlooked. As a working‑class wife, mother, and community member, I want what every family in our state deserves: strong public schools, affordable healthcare and prescription medications, safe and affordable housing, good‑paying jobs, and clean air and water. These aren’t partisan issues.” (Campaign website)
“They’re basic needs we all share. When we focus on our common ground, we can build real solutions that move Arizona forward. I was raised with core spiritual and cultural values that guide me in every part of my life. Those same values shape my policy priorities and my vision for a better, fairer Arizona.” (Campaign website)

Share this guide

Know someone voting? Send them this page.