2026 Legislative District 12 Candidates

Patricia “Patty” Contreras

State Senate, District 12

I worked for the City of Phoenix for over 31 years serving residents in the Parks and Recreation and Human Services Departments. As a public servant for much of my career, I was motivated to run for office to continue that service as a state legislator, and to be an advocate and voice for the elderly, people with disabilities, minority groups, and the LGBTQ community.

My priorities are to fund public education, help the elderly (I served on the Governor’s Advisory Council on Aging and the legislature’s Vulnerable Adult Study Committee), protect the environment through sustainable water solutions as a member of the House Natural Resources, Energy, and Water committee, and promote economic growth through well-paying jobs and economic development in our communities.

Patricia “Patty” Contreras

State Senate, District 12

As a current elected official, I have made it a point to listen to constituents and businesses in the communities I serve. I believe in growth, but managed and appropriate growth for the community. Large data centers that cause noise and air pollution and use millions of gallons of water should not be prioritized over businesses that provide services and good-paying jobs for residents.

The Chandler Chamber has been a great source of information, and I value my relationships with staff and the business community. I have promoted Chandler business growth and competitiveness, and I support affordable healthcare, responsible management of our water resources, public education and workforce development, and public transportation.

Patricia “Patty” Contreras

State Senate, District 12

Chandler is one of the best run cities in the state, steadily growing with well-paying jobs and corporations settling into the community. A Chandler Chamber endorsement will show my commitment to Chandler residents and the business community. As an Arizona native and longtime resident of the valley, I have seen the amazing growth of this city and am impressed by the revitalization of downtown and its welcoming atmosphere.

I will continue to promote Chandler as a great city to build a business and a wonderful city to live in. A Chandler Chamber endorsement will show my commitment to business growth and prosperity in this community.

Armando Montero

State House, District 12

After serving six years on the Tempe Union High School District Governing Board, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of funding cuts to public education from the State Legislature. I’m running for the State House to bring proven policy experience and a fresh perspective to the Capitol, addressing the issues that impact Arizonans and our business community most: education, fiscal responsibility, and building an economy that works for everyone.

Education is economic development, and strong public schools lead to engaged communities and a skilled workforce to support local businesses. In the State House, I will work to adequately fund education, safeguard taxpayer dollars from frivolous spending, and invest in CTE programming and post-graduate pathways for our students.

With four years as President of the TUHSD board, I’ve managed public budgets and staff, and I will bring that same accountability with taxpayer dollars to the State House. Arizona’s economy should work for everyone: families, workers, and businesses. I will invest in childcare, housing, healthcare, and infrastructure to support working-class families, which also bolsters our business community.

Stacey Travers

State House, District 12

My children, and the responsibility of creating a better, safer, healthier, and cleaner world for them. I wrote that when I first ran for office, and my mission and commitment remains unwavering.

Armando Montero

State House, District 12

On the TUHSD board, I’ve focused on collaborative governance, working closely with the business community to align educational outcomes with workforce needs. At ASU, I helped build “Thrive Tempe,” a collaboration among ASU, the City of Tempe, the school districts, and the Tempe Chamber to engage businesses across the full education spectrum.

In the State House, I plan to carry that style of leadership with me, consulting the Chandler Chamber and broader business community on legislation that impacts them, and ensuring decisions are made after open communication and community engagement. I aim to be an active partner in advancing priorities that keep Chandler and LD12 the premier choice for business to headquarter and thrive.

Stacey Travers

State House, District 12

State government should work together with local government and business to create and facilitate policy for the opportunity and betterment of communities and citizens, in the various sectors affected by statewide policy. Since my first election, I feel I have been a good partner to the businesses in my community.

Armando Montero

State House, District 12

The Chandler Chamber is a respected coalition of business leaders, all impacted by decisions made at the State Legislature. An endorsement would reaffirm my commitment to economic development and infrastructure that works for families, businesses, and workers alike, and would assure voters that my values align with the business community.

More importantly, it would open the door for active conversations with members and local businesses across LD12 and the East Valley. I would use that support to engage with members in conversation, discussion, and advice, both on the campaign trail and during service in the Legislature, helping me become an active partner with the business community.

Stacey Travers

State House, District 12

An endorsement confirms my commitment to the broader electorate, that I understand the synergy between a thriving business community and the role government plays in supporting expanding opportunities and creating an economically friendly environment.