Former Navajo Nation President Announces Congressional Run

News Summary

Jonathan Nez, former president of the Navajo Nation, has declared his candidacy for Congress in Arizona’s 2nd District. Targeting Republican Eli Crane, Nez aims to prioritize the needs of Arizona’s working-class families. With a focus on healthcare access, education, and tribal issues, Nez seeks to become the first Native American Congress member from Arizona. His campaign is bolstered by endorsements from key Democratic leaders, and he is determined to reconnect with the district’s constituents as he prepares for the 2026 election.

Arizona — Former Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez has officially announced his candidacy for Congress, targeting the current Republican representative Eli Crane in Arizona’s 2nd Congressional District. Nez’s announcement took place during a get-out-the-vote event hosted by the Gila River Indian Community on October 12, 2024. He expressed his determination to fight for the constituents of Arizona, stating that the state needs someone who will “warrior up” for its residents.

Nez, a Democrat, has criticized Crane for prioritizing wealthy individuals over working-class families, claiming the incumbent has “betrayed” the constituents. In the previous election held in 2024, Nez ran against Crane and garnered approximately 45% of the vote, while Crane secured 54%. The upcoming election will mark Nez’s second attempt to unseat Crane, who is associated with the House Freedom Caucus and resides outside the district he represents in Oro Valley.

Arizona’s 2nd Congressional District, which spans about 60% of the state, includes 14 Tribal Nations, with an Indigenous population of nearly 20%. If elected, Nez would become the first Native American member of Congress from Arizona. Nez plans to leverage his extensive experience, which includes serving as the Navajo Nation President, during which he focused on water security and reducing living costs for Northern Arizona residents.

The district was redrawn in 2021, providing Republicans with a seven-point advantage over Democrats. In the last election, while Nez won the northern counties of Apache, Coconino, Navajo, and Graham, he fell short in the GOP-dominated areas, including Yavapai, Gila, Pinal, and portions of Maricopa and Mohave counties.

Nez has highlighted critical issues that affect the constituents, such as healthcare access and nutrition assistance. Approximately one-third of residents in the district rely on Medicaid for healthcare services, which is known as AHCCCS in Arizona. He has voiced concerns that many could lose their healthcare coverage due to Crane’s supporting legislation that proposes cuts to Medicaid and SNAP funding. He specifically pointed out the high percentage of seniors in Apache and Navajo Counties dependent on these resources.

Nez’s campaign has gained traction with endorsements from prominent Arizona Democratic leaders, including U.S. Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego, as well as Attorney General Kris Mayes. These leaders have praised Nez’s dedication to addressing the needs of families in rural Arizona and his opposition to healthcare cuts. Nez has also indicated that Crane has not effectively utilized available federal funding for local projects, raising questions about Crane’s commitment to the district’s development.

Key issues central to Nez’s campaign include advocating for clean water, improving healthcare, enhancing infrastructure, and protecting tribal land. His residence outside of the district has also been a hot topic, with Nez questioning Crane’s investment in the community he represents. The former Navajo leader’s motivation stems from a strong desire for a representative who actively listens to the concerns of rural and tribal residents.

Nez plans to actively reconnect with constituents and address pressing concerns shaped by the recent policy changes in Washington, D.C. As he prepares for another face-off against Crane in 2026, he is bolstered by notable support from local leaders. With a campaign focused on healthcare and tribal rights, Jonathan Nez is set on reclaiming the congressional seat and providing a voice for Arizona’s diverse communities.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Arizona Mirror
• Arizona Central
• Navajo-Hopi News
• Navajo Times
• WMICentral
• Wikipedia: Jonathan Nez
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• Encyclopedia Britannica: Arizona Congress
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