Greg Stanton

TEMPE -- The Changing Hands bookstore witnessed the first in planned series of debates between Democratic Maricopa County attorney hopefuls Tim Nelson and Gerald Richard, who are competing in a primary to take on incumbent Andrew Thomas. 

Before a crowd of about 80, many of whom literally wore their allegiances to one candidate or the other on their sleeves (yellow shirts for Richard, navy for Nelson), Nelson and Richard debated experience - both claiming the edge in prosecutorial expertise - but generally agreed in their critiques of Thomas and the problem areas they wish to address. After the debate, both spoke about how they would deal with Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio, whose policies starkly differ from those proposed by both Democratic candidates.

Richard and Nelson spoke in unison on the need to reduce funding to things like billboards, which both candidates labelled "self-promotion" when done by Andrew Thomas, whose name often prominently appears on anti-drunk driving advertisements. Overall both said that "fiscal responsibility" needed to be restored at the county attorney's office. They also took Thomas to task over the low morale at the office, and vowed to treat deputy county attorneys with respect.

Just 24 hours after Congressman John Shadegg shocked the Arizona political world and announced he was resigning his seat, Democratic candidate Bob Lord continues to pick up momentum.  Lord has picked up the endorsement of Phoenix Councilman Greg Stanton (District-6).  Stanton is a very popular Councilman and should help Lord with organization in Phoenix immediately.   read mo