Paula Aboud

Richard Elias

Richard Elias, chairman of the Pima County Board of Supervisors, indicated to PolitickerAZ.com Wednesday that he might be interested at taking a run for the 7th Congressional District seat if U.S. Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-Tucson) vacates it to become secretary of the Department of the Interior in the Obama administration.

"If that happens, and I certainly wish Congressman Grijalva all the best with it, me and my family would have to take a long, hard look" at a run for his seat, Elias said.

Grijalva is regarded as one of the top contenders for the Interior post, and if he were nominated and confirmed, his departure would trigger a special election to fill his 7th district seat.

Conservative leaders have been giddy about the new Senate Committee assignments from incoming President Bob Burns. They are particularly happy about the important Appropriations Committee. The important committee is headed by two freshmen Senators who are also two of the most conservative legislators Russell Pearce and Al Melvin. Joining them on the committee for the Republican majority are Pam Gorman, Sylvia Allen, Ron Gould, Jack Harper and Steve Pierce.

Full list of Appropriations Committee.

Chair: Sen.-elect Russell Pearce, R-18
Vice Chair: Sen.-elect Al Melvin, R-26
Members:
Sen. Paula Aboud, D-28
Sen. Amanda Aguirre, D-24
Sen. Sylvia Allen, R-5
Sen. Pamela Gorman, R-6
Sen. Ron Gould, R-3
Sen. Albert Hale, D-2
Sen. Jack Harper, R-4
Sen.-elect Steve Pierce, R-1
Sen. Rebecca Rios, D-23