National attention continues on Lesko-Tipirneni contest in CD8
By Bridget Bowman | Roll Call
Rep. Trent Franks resigned in December amid allegations that he sexually harassed female staffers. Next week, no matter which party wins the race to replace the Arizona Republican, a woman will be elected to succeed him.
The April 24 special election in the 8th District pits former GOP state Sen. Debbie Lesko against Democrat Hiral Tipirneni, a cancer research advocate and former emergency room physician. The two could also meet again in November since both intend to file to run for a full term.
With the possibility the race could be decided by 10 points or less, operatives in both parties are watching for signals about the midterms.
Tipirneni said she has a real shot at winning the traditionally Republican district, west of Phoenix, but other Democrats are more cautious in their predictions.
While Republicans expect to hold the seat, one Arizona GOP consultant said they shouldn’t expect a huge victory based on recent special elections.
