Hello Neighbors,
It’s been another exciting month for our district between elections, policy, and business updates. I hope you enjoy the last few weeks of the dog days of summer and the excitement of the back-to-school hustle and bustle. I’m looking forward to an exciting second half of 2026!
A Successful and Strong July 21 Primary
The July Primary was an unqualified success for Maricopa County Elections staff and voters alike. Roughly 675,000 votes were cast and more than 158,000 of those were voted on election day. We tabulated ballots at a faster rate than ever before in modern history with 99% of ballots tabulated within 24 hours of polls closing. We received positive feedback across the board from voters regarding the new ID verification process for early ballots that helps bypass signature verification. I’m grateful to all our incredible staff and voters for making this a nearly perfect election. I look forward to another great election in November!
D2 Highlights
Supervisor Galvin Sponsors Predictions Market Policy for County Employees
This month, I introduced a policy to prohibit Maricopa County employees from using nonpublic information for personal gain in prediction markets. Whether it’s high-profile court cases, natural disasters, or election details, Maricopa County employees often know important information before it becomes public knowledge. It’s critical that the public trusts that the decisions being made at the County are being made with their best interests in mind. Maricopa County is the first major county in the country to implement this type of policy. I encourage elected offices across the County to follow the Board’s lead. I’m grateful to County Attorney Rachel Mitchell for already implementing a similar policy for her team.
Guest Lecturing at Arizona State University
Thank you to my former Board of Supervisors colleague, Bill Gates, for inviting me to be a guest speaker in his latest ASU course, Public Service and American Democracy. It was a pleasure to speak with these young people about what it means to be a public servant and the role and responsibilities of the Board of Supervisors.
Honoring Carl Kunasek
I was sad to hear of the passing of longtime Valley leader Carl Kunasek. He was a man of principle, vision, and dedication to public service. In addition to his extensive and impressive career, he was a proud family man and father of four with many devoted grandchildren and great-grandchildren. My family and I continue to pray for his family following this devastating loss.
Paw-litics is back!
Despite a slower spring, Paw-litics is back in full swing this summer! These one-minute videos give you a quick update on what’s happening at the County while also highlighting one of the dogs currently available at our shelter. Good news! This month’s co-host, Momo, has already been adopted! Check out our video below.
D2 is Open for Business!
Congratulations, Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming!
East Valley dogs have a new spot for pampering! This month, Woof Gang Bakery and Pet grooming opened a new location in Mesa near Stapley Drive and McKellips Road. Congratulations, Woof Gang, on your latest expansion!
Welcome to D2, Knightwerx!
I was recently given the opportunity to tour a new and exciting company in my district, Knightwerx! This defense technology company recently put down roots in Scottsdale and is hoping to significantly scale its business here over the next few years. Welcome to District 2, Knightwerx!
Target’s Latest Investment in District 2!
It is a point of pride to have some of the biggest companies in the world want to invest in our community. I’m grateful to the team at Target for including me in the grand opening of its latest store in Mesa!
Prediction Market Policy Coverage
This month’s first-of-its-kind policy for county governments across the country brought quite a bit of media coverage. Check out these stories from AZ Family/3TV, FOX10, Arizona Capitol Times, and The Center Square.
Election Day Coverage
Maricopa County’s smooth Primary Election caught the attention of local media. Read all about the success of our new ID check-in option at vote centers and how quickly we tabulated ballots with coverage from AZCentral, KTAR, and FOX10.
Monthly Interview with Mike Broomhead
One of my favorite parts of the month is when I get to sit down and catch up with KTAR’s Mike Broomhead. This month, we discussed a flawless primary election, new prediction market policy, pro-market policies, a hopeful bid for Phoenix to host the 2038 FIFA World Cup, and more! Listen here.
Nonprofit Spotlight
Extended Hands Food Bank
Did you know that summer is one of the most difficult times of year for those who are food insecure? Extended Hands Food Bank in Fountain Hills works to keep our community well-fed, no matter the circumstances. This incredible nonprofit allows members of our community to come in and shop once a week for the essentials they need, from poultry to pet food! Learn more about this amazing nonprofit below.
What to Chew in District 2
Local Favorite: Papa Bears Texas Barbeque
For a taste of Texas right here in Arizona, head to Apache Junction’s own Papa Bears Texas Barbeque! It all started in the backyards of family and friends, then grew into a food truck, and now a thriving East Valley restaurant. You can’t go wrong with the beef brisket, pulled pork, smoked sausage, or smoked turkey breast. This is great food at a great price. Next time you’re in Apache Junction, be sure to stop by!
My Office Is Here To Assist You
We want to ensure our constituents have the information they need. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact my office at 602-506-7525.
