By: Jeremy Yurow |Arizona Capitol Times
Voters will have to choose candidates for the Arizona Corporation Commission with vastly different opinions on how to reach a critical balance in curating the state’s energy policy while protecting Arizonans’ health.
Candidates for the ACC differ greatly on what they say should be the role that the commission takes in curating Arizona’s energy policy, including if regulations and mandates are a government overreach or necessary to secure a healthy future for residents. Some of the candidates oppose such rules, saying they drive up utility costs for Arizonans.
Republicans currently hold a 3-2 advantage on the commission with two positions up for election this year. Candidates include three Republicans and two Democrats.
The primary election will be held on August 2. Given that the top two candidates from each party’s primary will advance to the general election in November, it is a virtual certainty that both Democrats will make it, while only two of the three Republicans will move forward to the general election. The top two candidates who then get the highest vote total in the general election will join the commission.