JULY 24, 2010 – PHOENIX, AZ, M. Masters

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Unity and Momentum Heading into November

United Under One Big Tent, the Arizona Republican Party headquarters, Arizona Republicans Shift Their Focus from the Primary to Victory in November.

The Arizona Republican Party officially opened its new state headquarters today, bringing together elected officials, party leaders, candidates, volunteers, and grassroots activists from across the state. More than a ceremonial ribbon cutting, the event reflected a party that has turned its attention from the primary election to the work of winning in November.

Longtime Arizona broadcaster James T. Harris served as master of ceremonies keeping the program moving while energizing the crowd with his trademark humor and enthusiasm.

Several Republican nominees fresh off their primary victories addressed attendees, including gubernatorial nominee Andy Biggs, Attorney General nominee Warren Petersen, and Secretary of State nominee Alex Kolodin. Their remarks focused on carrying the momentum from the primary into the General Election and uniting Republicans behind a common goal of success in November.

State and National Leaders Share a Unified Message

Also joining the celebration was Republican National Committee Chairman Joe Gruters, who reaffirmed the RNC’s commitment to Arizona. Gruters provided an update on the national party’s fundraising efforts and explained how those resources are being invested in Arizona through financial support, campaign infrastructure, voter outreach, technology, and operational assistance.

Those investments are particularly important in Arizona, where several competitive congressional and legislative districts will help determine the balance of power in both Phoenix and Washington. National support gives the Arizona Republican Party additional resources to compete effectively in those key races.

The event also highlighted the leadership of Arizona Republican Party Chairman Sergio Arellano and Executive Director Bill Beard. Under their leadership, the party has worked to bring together Republicans from across the state, strengthening cooperation between campaigns, volunteers, county organizations, and grassroots groups. That renewed spirit of unity was evident throughout the day’s program and in conversations among attendees.

Legislative District 9 Remains a Key Battleground

I also had the opportunity to speak with Bill Beard, along with the party’s Director of Hispanic Communications and Outreach and several other state party leaders. For those of us working at the grassroots level, it was encouraging to hear repeated recognition that local legislative races matter. Several East Valley districts remain highly competitive, and victories there could determine the makeup of the Arizona Legislature. One message came through clearly: Legislative District 9, located in the heart of Mesa, is recognized as one of the most important legislative battlegrounds in Arizona. Success there, along with victories in several other East Valley swing districts, could play a significant role in determining control of the Arizona Legislature.

That recognition reinforces what many local volunteers have understood for months. Competitive legislative races are won through consistent voter contact, neighborhood engagement, and a strong grassroots organization. The support being provided by both the Arizona Republican Party and the Republican National Committee will help strengthen those efforts during the final months of the campaign.

The grand opening was more than the dedication of a new office. It symbolized a coming together of different types of Republicans for next phase. Now the focus shifts to electing Republicans up and down the ballot, from local jurisdictional races, through statewide offices, and to the US Congress. If the enthusiasm and unity on display today are any indication, Arizona Republicans are ready to get to work.