Around the Districts Podcast

In the second part of our conversation, Maritza Saenz returns to expose the deep conflict over ballot access in Arizona. The state legislature maintains a steady assault on early ballots and mail-in access. We dissect the Free, Fair, and Secure Elections Act (I-08-2026), a citizen measure that establishes voter rights in the Arizona Constitution. This measure places established ballot access out of reach for partisan politicians. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/maritza-saenz-protect-vote-part-2 == Learn more about Protect the Vote Arizona == Website: https://protectthevoteaz.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578510954989 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/protectthevoteaz/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@protect_the_vote_az The opinions shared on this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent any organizations or affiliations.

The 2026 election cycle is here. Wealth alone does not buy movements. In this episode, we continue our conversation with Claudia Kline. She seeks a seat in the Arizona House of Representatives for Legislative District 8. We look at the harsh landscape for rural Arizona. We show how state policy fails our neighbors. We dissect how corporations use right-to-work laws to exploit workers and suppress wages. We discuss the medical deserts of rural towns and the drought of secure jobs. Learn how working-class families are organizing to reclaim their power and defend their homes through raw, collective labor. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/claudia-kline-ld8-part-2 == Learn more about Claudia Kline == Website: https://www.claudiaforaz.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claudia4az/ The opinions shared on this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent any organizations or affiliations.

Municipal campaigns are hard work. In 2024, Cicely Rocha-Miller missed the Chandler runoff election by only 242 votes. This razor-thin margin proves a fundamental truth: your vote matters. While national campaigns dominate our screens with partisan battles, municipal decisions determine our daily lives. In Part 1 of our conversation with Chandler City Council candidate Cicely Rocha-Miller, we discuss the reality of local public service. We explore the rapid growth of East Valley neighborhoods, the administrative red tape that can choke small businesses, and the crisis of public educators who must work weekend side jobs to survive. Local representation is our shield. When we ignore our backyards, corporate interests and partisan polarization fill the void. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/cicely-rocha-miller-part1 == Learn more about Cicely Rocha-Miller == Website: https://www.cicelyforchandler.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cicelyforchandler Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cicelyforchandler Facebook: http://facebook.com/cicelyforchandler The opinions shared on this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent any organizations or affiliations.

National campaigns waste millions on late-stage television ads. They ignore the physical labor of the precinct. In part one of our series with Legislative District 12 Chair Melissa Galarza, we examine how local organization wins elections. Melissa built a powerful team of precinct committeepersons in the East Valley. Volunteers distributed over one hundred thousand physical voter guides. They knocked on doors. They did the hard work. They won every single seat on the ballot. We discuss the need for a succession plan for young voters. We expose why voter registration is not enough. Communities must organize to survive systemic neglect. Listen to learn how LD12 built the strongest grassroots shield in Arizona. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/grassroots-melissa-galarza-part-1 == Get Involved with Your LD: == Voter Status: Confirm your registration status at https://BeBallotReady.vote and find out what Legislative District you’re in. Newsletter: Visit their website. Sign up for the local newsletter to track upcoming meetings. Volunteer: Join a local canvass or help draft the next voter guide. Learn More about LD12: https://azld12dems.org/ The opinions shared on this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent any organizations or affiliations.

The state legislature counts on your exhaustion. They believe that if they make the act of the vote difficult, you will stay home. In this episode, we sit down with Maritza Saenz of Protect the Vote. Arizona has a thirty-year history of secure mail-in ballots. Now, that history is under siege. This is not just an attack on a few—it is a systemic attempt to control every single voter, regardless of party, background, or geography. If they can suppress the vote of one, they can control the outcome for all. We discuss why a constitutional amendment is the last barrier against systemic suppression. Learn how to join the front lines to protect the ballot. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/maritza-saenz-protect-vote-part-1 == Learn more about Protect the Vote Arizona == Website: https://protectthevoteaz.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578510954989 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/protectthevoteaz/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@protect_the_vote_az The opinions shared on this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent any organizations or affiliations.

The 2026 election cycle demands leaders who live the reality of their districts. Legislative District 8 faces a choice between community service as a hobby and representation as a necessity. Claudia Kline joins the show to expose the systemic neglect that poisons our air and drains our public funds. We discuss the environmental toll on the Yavapai-Apache and Pascua Yaqui communities. We examine the failure of the state budget to reach the people. We ask why a utility bill in an apartment hits five hundred dollars while many corporations avoid paying fair share. Lived experience is the only path to accountability. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/claudia-kline-ld8-part-1 == Learn more about Claudia Kline == - Website: https://www.claudiaforaz.com/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claudia4az/ The opinions shared on this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent any organizations or affiliations.

The math of dissent is precise. AJ Kurdoglu knows this math. In part two of our conversation, we expose the tactical storm of this administration. We reveal the human cost of state-sanctioned kidnapping. Gilbert was once a fortress for silence. Now, it is a site of resistance. We discuss the 3.5% rule. This is the threshold where a disciplined minority breaks a failing system. We also confront the reality of ICE deportations. The parents of a mother of two and military veteran. A US citizen with a US passport. Seized and removed to a country she never knew. This is on purpose. It is a part of their plan. Listen to hear how No Kings is converting protest momentum into midterm votes. Resistance has a style. It moves strategically. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/no-kings-3-aj-kurdoglu-part-2 == Learn more about Chandler Gilbert Indivisible == Website: https://chandlergilbertindivisible.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chandlergilbertindivisible Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chandlergilbertindivisible YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChanGilIndivisible

The powerful use hopelessness as a tool for control. They want silence. We refuse. In this episode, we prove the tide can turn. We look at promising data. From the Salt River Project election to national flips in red districts across the nation, the working class is waking up. Voters in Arizona stood in line for four hours to protect their power. The costs of survival continue to rise while the market shrivels in the face of global instability. These are facts that cannot be ignored. Democracy requires action. It requires you. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/hope-dont-give-up

On March 28, 2026, the United States saw the largest single-day protest in its history. "No Kings 3" drew an estimated 8 million participants nationwide, including over 101,000 in Arizona alone. In this episode, we sit down with AJ Kurdoglu, co-leader of Chandler Gilbert Indivisible, to talk about the tactical shift of moving the protest into the conservative stronghold of Gilbert. We discuss the reality of the 2026 Iran war, the open corruption of the current administration, and why 2,500 people showed up on a Saturday morning in Gilbert to demand change. Resistance is a neighbor-to-neighbor movement for survival. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/no-kings-3-aj-kurdoglu == Learn more about Chandler Gilbert Indivisible == Website: https://chandlergilbertindivisible.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chandlergilbertindivisible Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chandlergilbertindivisible YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChanGilIndivisible

Affordability is the primary concern for voters. That’s true everywhere, but certainly in LD25. Arizona healthcare systems face a crisis as insurance companies overrule doctors and deny claims. Families pay the price at the pump, the pharmacy, and the hospital. In this episode, AZ State Senate candidate Laura Huber explains the systemic pressure on our medical and housing markets, and how a fresh perspective is worth considering. Topics covered in this conversation: - Break the partisan "label trap" to focus on real policy. - Apply mental health and listening skills to legislative leadership. - End the insurance company stranglehold on healthcare access. - Stop (or at least slow) corporations from seizing local family homes. - What qualifies as a "Clean Election"? Is your candidate “Clean?” Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/therapists-perspective-part-2-laura-huber == Donate $5 to Laura’s Clean Election Campaign == https://apps.azsos.gov/apps/election/eps/qc/ == Learn more about Laura Huber == Website: https://www.laurahuberforazsenate.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581647962921 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurahuberforaz/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@laura.huber.for.a

Survival is not a policy. In the second part of our conversation, Bobby Nichols breaks down the brutal economics of affordability in Tempe. Bobby serves as an Assistant Attorney General. He brings a unique legal lens to the fight for working-class stability. This race is not about personality. This race is a tactical intervention to shift the Overton window. We explore the "Housing First" model as a necessary barrier against the deaths of despair that plague our community. Bobby shares the personal cost of systemic neglect following the loss of his sister, Madison. Her legacy drives his mission to ensure every neighbor can thrive, not just survive. From union building to the fight against ICE surveillance, the movement remains. Time is of the essence. Read the full analytical breakdown on our blog: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/affordability-movement-part-2-bobby-nichols This is part two of a two-part interview. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/affordability-movement-part-2-bobby-nichols == Learn more about Bobby Nichols == Website: https://bobby4tempe.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1GRega6zpC/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bobby4tempe/ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@bobby4tempe YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bobby4tempe

From the suburban sprawl of Surprise to the essential agricultural fields of Yuma (winter lettuce capital of North America), Legislative District 25 is facing significant pressures. On this episode, we sit down with Laura Huber, a clinical counselor with seventeen years of experience and a deep legacy in Arizona farming, to discuss the consequential shifts threatening her community. Failure is not inevitable. It is a choice. Watch to learn how Laura Huber plans to lead with active listening and grit instead of political righteousness. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/affordability-water-part-1-laura-huber == Learn more about Laura Huber == Website: https://www.laurahuberforazsenate.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581647962921 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurahuberforaz/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@laura.huber.for.a

In this episode, we sit down with Bobby Nichols an Assistant Attorney General and candidate for Tempe City Council, to discuss the brutal reality of the local housing market. With renters making up 60% of our city, the lack of protection and stability has reached a breaking point. Bobby breaks down his consequential plan to fight back, including a rental stabilization board and a vision for the city to act as its own developer on public land. We also dive into the fragile state of civic engagement in Tempe, the 7-0 voting patterns that silence community voices, and the personal tragedies that drive Bobby’s mission to ensure time is of the essence. This is part one of a two-part interview. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/clock-is-ticking-part-1-bobby-nichols == Learn more about Bobby Nichols == Website: https://bobby4tempe.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1GRega6zpC/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bobby4tempe/ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@bobby4tempe YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bobby4tempe

The 2026 election cycle is here, and the "sticker shock" of the 2024 results proved one thing: money alone doesn't buy movements. In the final part of our series with Unity Rising founder Jacob George, we expose the failure of "AstroTurf" organizing and the urgent need for a relational comeback in Arizona. We dive into the max exodus of men from the Democratic party, the populist pipeline from Bernie to Trump, and how Project 2025 is designed to turn the next generation into worker bees instead of critical thinkers. Education and mentorship are the only barriers left against systemic failure. Listen to learn how Unity Rising is building a succession plan to reclaim the future. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/jacob-george-unity-rising-part3 == Learn more about Unity Rising USA == Website: https://www.unityrisingusa.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unityrisingusa Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unityrisingusa Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/unityrisingusa.org TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unityrisingusa

The culture war is loud. Rent is louder. In Part 2 with Jacob George, we talk about the messaging gap that’s bleeding young voters: national politics as a donation machine vs. local life as a cost-of-living emergency. We get into: - Why “economic first” framing is the only language that lands - How to link social issues back to working-class survival - The MAGA fracture—and why some drift doesn’t move toward moderation - Why peer-to-peer organizing beats adult lectures every time Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/jacob-george-unity-rising-part2 == Learn more about Unity Rising USA == Website: https://www.unityrisingusa.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unityrisingusa Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unityrisingusa Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/unityrisingusa.org TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unityrisingusa

Arizona’s youth vote can decide elections—and it can disappear. In Part 1 of our conversation, Jacob George (founder + executive director of Unity Rising USA) lays out what he’s building: a student-led chapter model designed to counter Turning Point USA’s campus pipeline, cut through the jargon, and connect politics back to working-class survival. We get into: - How lived experience shapes organizing - Why Democrats lose ground with young working-class voters - What “bold, simple messaging” actually looks like - Why Arizona margins are so thin they can fit inside one high school Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/jacob-george-unity-rising-part1 == Learn more about Unity Rising USA == Website: https://www.unityrisingusa.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unityrisingusa Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unityrisingusa Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/unityrisingusa.org TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unityrisingusa

This episode closes our conversation with Francesca Martin, Deputy Director of the Keep Arizona Blue Student Coalition. Part 1 covered tactics, how she started organizing at 16, and how her team confronts voter apathy on campus. Part 2 goes deeper: motive, mentorship, and the pipeline Arizona needs if democracy is going to hold. Francesca explains why the word “politics” repels so many young voters (they hear D.C. gridlock and shouting), and why “community” brings them in. Community speaks the language of rent hikes, housing costs, wages, and the right to stay in the place that raised you. Francesca breaks down what real inclusion looks like for young leaders: not a pat on the head, but trust, autonomy, and serious responsibility because democracy needs succession. If the pipeline stalls, the whole system weakens. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/part-2-francesca-martin == Connect with Keep Arizona Blue == Website: https://www.keepazblue.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/keepazblue Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keepazblue/ X: https://x.com/keepazblue Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/keepazblue.org TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@keepazblue

Political power doesn’t start in Washington. It starts in classrooms, union halls, and community meetings—where turnout is built and myths get shattered. In this conversation, Francesca explains why “youth apathy” is often the result of campaigns choosing not to invest in young voters. She walks through what actually works: connecting the ballot to daily survival—rent, wages, campus safety, health care, climate—and building trust through consistent, visible organizing instead of performative politics. We also dig into the lived experience behind her work: growing up in a proud union family, what worker protections can mean when someone gets hurt on the job, and why Arizona’s policy landscape makes state and local fights impossible to ignore. And we hit the piece too many voters skip: down-ballot power. School boards. City councils. State legislatures. Propositions. If you stop at the top line, you’re leaving real leverage on the table. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/part-1-francesca-martin == Connect with Keep Arizona Blue == Website: https://www.keepazblue.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/keepazblue Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keepazblue/ X: https://x.com/keepazblue Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/keepazblue.org TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@keepazblue

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Dr. Raquel “Rockee” Armstrong, a visionary leader running for State Representative in Arizona's Legislative District 13. In this final part of our three-part series, Dr. Armstrong tackles the challenges of political leadership in a divided legislature. She advocates for unity and collaboration, stressing that shared values like safe neighborhoods and robust public schools unite more than partisan labels divide.    Discover her insights on why compromise shouldn't be a dirty word in politics, but rather a pathway to effective governance. Dr. Armstrong delves into the personal stakes of policy-making, illustrating how bad policies can directly impact families at their most vulnerable—turning into skipped prescriptions and overwhelming rent hikes.       Watch as she shares her strategies for staying grounded amidst the political machine, highlighting the role of community, transparency, and honest dialogue in building trust and effective leadership.    Don’t miss this compelling episode that offers a roadmap for civic engagement and the future of Arizona politics. Engage, support diverse voices, and be part of the change.  Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/part-3-raquel-rockee-armstrong == Connect with Dr. Raquel “Rockee” Armstrong == Website: https://rockee4az.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Rockee4AZ/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockee4az X: https://x.com/Rockee4AZ

2026 is a critical year for Arizona voters. This episode breaks down why local elections matter more than ever—from city council and school boards to the SRP Board and state legislature. Learn key dates, why turnout matters, and how your vote influences policies on housing, education, water, and safety. Voting is a right earned through sacrifice, not a convenience. People fought—and died—for the right to vote. Your participation is non-negotiable. Watch now and prepare to engage early. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/2026-az-election-info == Resources for AZ Voters == https://BeBallotReady.vote https://Elections.Maricopa.gov https://Vote411.org SRP Election - https://www.srpnet.com/about/governance-leadership/elections/how-to-vote Tempe City Council candidate panel - https://www.mobilize.us/azld12democrats/event/870198/

In Part 2 of our series with Dr. Raquel 'Rockee' Armstrong, we dive into the healthcare premium crisis and economic pressures facing Arizona families. This is about more than policy—it’s about survival. Watch now and join the movement for a healthier Arizona. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/part-2-raquel-rockee-armstrong == Connect with Dr. Raquel “Rockee” Armstrong == Website: https://rockee4az.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Rockee4AZ/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockee4az X: https://x.com/Rockee4AZ

In this first part of our conversation with Dr. Armstrong, we explore the critical challenges facing Legislative District 13 and Arizona at large—education funding, affordability, and smart growth policies. Dr. Armstrong, an assistant professor of Educational Leadership and candidate for State Representative, shares her frontline experience and policy insights on how these issues intersect and impact everyday lives. Topics covered include the strain of rising housing and childcare costs, the real toll on teachers beyond salary concerns, the controversy around the ESA voucher program, and the urgent need for public accountability and investment in communities. LD13 voters face a rare open seat and a crucial choice that will shape the district’s future. This episode is a call to action to register, vote, and demand representatives who prioritize real solutions over distraction politics. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/part-1-raquel-rockee-armstrong == Learn more about Dr. Rockee Armstrong == Website: https://rockee4az.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Rockee4AZ/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockee4az X: https://x.com/Rockee4AZ

Armando Montero’s approach is simple: put down the performative politics and pick up real dialogue. Bridging divides and fighting voter apathy starts with listening and acting. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/part-3-armando-montero == Connect with Armando Montero == Website: https://monteroforaz.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/armandomonteroaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/armandomonteroaz/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/armando-a-montero/

In Part 2 of our series with Tempe Union School Board President and State Representative candidate Armando Montero we discuss Arizona’s broken public school funding system and the damaging effects of the universal voucher program. Discover why structural reform and accountability are urgent for Arizona’s students and communities. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/part-2-armando-montero == Learn more about Armando Montero == Website: https://monteroforaz.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/armandomonteroaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/armandomonteroaz/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/armando-a-montero/

Join us on Around the Districts as we dive into the inspiring story of Armando Montero, Tempe Union High School District Board President. From student activism to policy wins on mental health and education, Armando is now running for State Representative to tackle Arizona's systemic challenges. Watch to learn about the real stakes for public education and youth advocacy in our state. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/part-1-armando-montero == Connect with Armando Montero == Website: https://monteroforaz.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/armandomonteroaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/armandomonteroaz/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/armando-a-montero/

In this episode, Gabi Mazar talks with AJ Kurdoglu, owner of Home Mart Interiors in Chandler, about how tariffs are squeezing small businesses and shaking consumer confidence in Arizona. With imports driving costs up, local businesses are on the frontlines of a self-inflicted economic crisis impacting our whole community. Discover why supporting local businesses has never been more critical to keeping our economy resilient and neighbors thriving. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/tariffs-squeeze-small-business

In this episode, we dive into the rare intersection of trauma, compassion, and law enforcement with Constable Karyn Lathan of the University Lakes Justice Precinct. Focused on eviction enforcement, Lathan’s trauma-informed, human-centered approach rejects the cold, cut-and-dry norm.  She shares her lived experience of trauma and how it fuels her relentless compassion—bringing dignity to families on their hardest days. This is a call for systemic eviction reform and a new model of public service. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/part-2-karyn-lathan-constable == Learn About and Support Karyn Lathan == Website: https://constablekaryn.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConstableKaryn/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/constablekaryn

The "No Kings" protests are surging across America, a powerful grassroots response to the threat of authoritarianism. Join Gabi in conversation with AJ Kurdoglu, leader of Chandler Gilbert Indivisible, as they talk about the significance of these millions-strong, peaceful demonstrations. This movement is about people reclaiming democracy when institutions fail. With 7 million already in the streets, we’re more than halfway to the tipping point, the call is clear: organize, show up, and resist. Find your local Indivisible chapter and join the fight to defend democracy. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/power-of-people-no-kings-2 == More About Chandler Gilbert Indivisible == Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Ban4tdtnD/

Dive deep into the life and work of Karyn Lathan, the elected Constable of Tempe’s University Lakes Justice Precinct. In this episode, Gabi interviews Constable Lathan about the complex, emotionally taxing duties she performs daily, especially around evictions and homelessness prevention. This role is far from the Old West image — it’s a modern, compassionate frontline between the housed and unhoused, balancing legal authority with restorative justice and community care. Learn how Constable Lathan uses empathy, mediation, and resource connection to serve those facing their hardest days. This is a story about hope, pain, and the crucial need for compassion in law enforcement. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/part-1-karyn-lathan-constable == Get to Know Karyn Lathan == Website: https://constablekaryn.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConstableKaryn/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/constablekaryn

The authoritarian playbook is not theoretical. It’s unfolding right here in the United States. In this episode, Ajlan Kurdoglu shares his firsthand experience from Turkey, exposing how media control, disinformation, and the erosion of trust systematically dismantle democracy. We dive deep into how these tactics silence dissent, undermine elections, and corrode the institutions meant to protect us. But democracy’s survival depends on grassroots resistance. Neighbors organizing, supporting local leaders, and rebuilding trust at the community level. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/the-authoritarian-playbook

Tempe is facing a crossroads with urgent challenges in housing, government transparency, and community care. Brooke St. George offers a bold plan for city-owned social housing to counter skyrocketing rents and keep families rooted. She demands openness in city council decisions—no more behind-closed-doors deals, but early and honest public input to rebuild trust. Seniors aging in place and the unhoused need affordable, dignified solutions, with real investments in neighborhood programs and support for grassroots efforts. This campaign is about justice, dignity, and building a Tempe that works for everyone. Learn more and join the movement for real change. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/brooke-st-george-4-tempe-part-2 == Connect with Brooke St. George == Website: https://brookefortempe.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578065753929 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brookefortempe YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrookeforTempe Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/brookefortempe.bsky.social

Polarization and political violence are ravaging America. Discover strategies for restoring civility and promoting peaceful participation. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/navigating-division-polarization

Brooke St. George's vision for Tempe as she runs for City Council. Learn about her commitment to smart development and community engagement. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/brooke-st-george-4-tempe == Get to Know Brooke St. George == Website: https://brookefortempe.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578065753929 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brookefortempe YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrookeforTempe Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/brookefortempe.bsky.social

Learn how advocacy can drive meaningful change, and the real-life effects of government shutdowns on federal employees and communities. https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/shutdown-whats-at-stake

Melissa Harlan of Drink Me Tea Room shares the challenges and resilience of Arizona's small businesses. Learn how to support local entrepreneurship. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/smallbiz-challenges-triumphs-part-2 == Support Melissa and the staff at Drink Me! Tea Room! == Visit them in person: https://maps.app.goo.gl/17d8ZsGFEHmTy6TR6 Visit them online: https://drinkmetearoom.com/ Share your love on social media: https://www.tiktok.com/@drinkmetearoom https://www.instagram.com/drinkmetearoom/, and  https://www.facebook.com/drinkmetearoom/

Gerrymandering impacts every level of government. Find out how Arizona’s map changes could divide or empower your community. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/az-redistricting-impacts-community

Inflation and rising costs are squeezing small businesses tight. Discover how Arizona locals like Melissa Harlan are adapting and why community support matters now more than ever. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/smallbiz-challenges-triumphs-part-1 == Support Melissa and the staff at Drink Me! Tea Room! == Visit them in person: https://maps.app.goo.gl/17d8ZsGFEHmTy6TR6 Visit them online: https://drinkmetearoom.com/ Share your love on social media: https://www.tiktok.com/@drinkmetearoom https://www.instagram.com/drinkmetearoom/ https://www.facebook.com/drinkmetearoom/

The challenges of school funding in Arizona with Nicole Brown and Cedric Collins. Learn how investing in education can transform student outcomes. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/investing-az-schools-az-future

The Democratic voter exodus is real in Arizona and nationwide. Learn why voters are leaving and how the party can win them back. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/voters-leaving-democrats

Keep public schools strong! We continue our conversation with Racheal Clawson. See how Save Our Schools Arizona is fighting for transparency and equitable education.  Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/part-2-sos-arizona

Who benefits from school vouchers (really benefits)? Discover the truth behind voucher programs and their impact on Arizona’s public schools.  Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/part-1-sos-arizona Upcoming SOSAZ events: https://www.mobilize.us/sosarizona/ Verify your voter registration: https://beballotready.vote/

Real reform starts with us. Join the call to action—get involved, speak up for school funding, and advocate for policies that support every student. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/exploring-educational-challenges

Did you get a mysterious letter about your voter status? Find out what’s really happening with Maricopa County's voter rolls—and how to stay ballot-ready. If you live in Maricopa County... https://beballotready.vote/ Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/uncovering-voter-roll-issues-in-maricopa

School board advocacy is for all of us! Learn how you can help build a more equitable system for every student and every family. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/empowering-education-cedric-collins-1

Support local businesses and explore creative solutions to combat rising prices. Learn how we can make a difference together. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/navigating-rising-prices

Discover the power of protests! Overcoming challenges and building momentum both locally and nationwide. Learn how participation is driving change and amplifying voices nationwide. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/protests-and-participation For those interested in getting involved... Find events, petitions and volunteer opportunities near you at https://www.mobilize.us/ Information about Tempe Rising Indivisible's upcoming events can be found at https://temperisingindivisible.com/  

Dive into the Trump family's alleged corruption and financial gains during their time in government. Explore the controversies and their impact on politics. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/unveiling-corruption

Discover how Tempe Rising Indivisible is fostering a pro-democracy community through creative activism and bipartisan efforts. Join the movement and learn more. Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/tempe-rising-indivisible For those interested in getting involved, information about Tempe Rising Indivisible's upcoming events can be found at https://linktr.ee/temperisingindivisible.

Ready to make an impact? Dive into the world of local elections and learn how grassroots movements and overcoming voter suppression can drive meaningful change. Your voice matters—let's amplify it together! Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/empowering-change-through-community

Dive into the power of community action! In our latest episode, we explore how rallies, protests, and town halls are shaping political engagement. Discover why local involvement is crucial and how you can make a difference. Listen now and join the movement! Check us out on Substack: https://aroundthedistricts.substack.com/p/amplifying-community-voices