A look at some rumored CD1 candidates

Republican Sydney Hay, who finished a close third to Renzi in a crowded 2002 primary, is the leading Republican right now for the 1st CD which is open with the retirement of Congressman Rick Renzi. With State Rep Bill Konopnicki announcing he won’t run for the seat a shuffle has begun to find another Republican to enter the primary. Former senate President Ken Bennett is a rumored candidate, but to date has yet to say he has interest in the seat. This is a look at some other potential candidates for the seat.

Lisa Atkins. Lisa is considered a strong female candidate with experience. Lisa served as Congressman Bob Stump’s Chief of Staff for two decades and is a former candidate for Congress. In 2002 Lisa ran in a seven way primary for CD2 and lost by less than 800 votes to Trent Franks.

Tom O’Halleran. The State Senator from Sedona was first elected to office in 2001 and is coming to the end of his 2nd term. O’Halleran, considered moderate by some, would be an attractive candidate for the business community.

Jeff Hatch-Miller. Yes, the Corporation Commissioner is looking into running for Congress in CD5, but this would make more sense for Hatch-Miller. He lived for many years in Prescott (the heart of the district) and would be the perceived front-runner.

Andy Tobin. The Paulden state representative is still in his first term in the Arizona House. Tobin was not interested in running for the seat when his name was first mentioned last year.

Steve Pierce. The local activist and cattle rancher would be the outside candidate and may have an advantage in a year when everyone seems to love the word “change.”