Press Release: What to Know About Republicans in Legislative District 4
Spoiler alert: LD4 Republicans oppose reproductive freedom and LGBTQ+ protections
PHOENIX - As we approach Arizona’s July 30th Primary Election, we’re highlighting some of the most extreme positions Republicans in LD4 are taking ahead of the election. In LD4, Republican candidates include Carine Werner for the Senate, and Pamela Carter and Matt Gress for the House. They will face off against Democrats Christine Marsh, Kelli Butler, and Karen Gresham in November. The LD4 Republican candidates have an extensive track record promoting conspiracy theories and pushing abortion bans:
Carine Werner, Senate
As a school board member, Werner tried to ban books she didn’t agree with and advocated to end a contract that provides books to elementary school students because they cover the right to protest.
Penned an op-ed opposing the Scottsdale school district using podcasts from NPR to teach students about current events and accused it of being “propaganda.”
Voted against spending money on resources to help students improve their math and reading skills.
Met with members of Turning Point USA on at least two occasions in 2024.
Matt Gress, House
Introduced five fetal personhood bills, including one that Governor Hobbs issued a veto for.
Celebrated the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
Voted with Republicans to block a vote on the Right to Contraception Act.
Pamela Carter, House
In the Ivoterguide, Carter says she opposes abortion except if it endangers the life of the mother, minimum wage, gay marriage, and supports arming teachers.
Opposes nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ Arizonans and supports conversion therapy.
Democrats are only two seats away in both the State House of Representatives and the State Senate from flipping control of the legislature for the first time in 60 years. Democrats are ready to combat Republican extremism and provide serious leadership for Arizonans.
LD4 is expected to be one of the most competitive districts in Arizona this November. It is currently represented by two Democrats and one Republican in the Arizona legislature.