Yesterday, the Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission unanimously approved a final map for Arizona’s nine Congressional districts and approved a map for the 30 Legislative districts with a 3-2 vote. The maps will be in effect through the 2030 election cycle.
The final map has four districts that are “safe” for Republicans and three that are “safe” for Democrats. CD1 and CD6 are considered the map’s “competitive” districts. Applying the map to the most recent U.S. presidential election, President Joe Biden won the Congressional districts 5-4. However, for the upcoming 2022 midterms, it can very possibly go 6-3 for Republicans because of the expected wave year in favor of Republicans. If upcoming election years are seen as a wave year for Democrats, the districts could easily go 5-4 or even 6-3 in favor.
Of note, the final approved maps has far-reaching consequences for Arizona’s representation in the House. First, the maps place two incumbents, Rep. Paul Gosar and Rep. Tom O’Halleran into the same district. Incumbent Rep. David Schweikert will now reside in a significantly more competitive district as well. Finally, Western Arizona will be represented by a new western district.
Western Growers members can view the maps HERE, along with further background information.