Edgar Soto

Edgar Soto served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve from 1994 to 2001. He earned a high school diploma from Tucson High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of New Mexico, a bachelor's degree from the University of Arizona, and a graduate degree from Northern Arizona University. His career experience includes working as an educator and administrator.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a fifth-generation Arizonan, Tucson native, Marine Corps veteran, educator, and longtime community leader. I have dedicated more than 30 years to Pima Community College, serving as a teacher, coach, athletics director, dean, and campus vice president. I also serve on community boards supporting education, economic development, sports, tourism, and opportunities for young people.

My life has been shaped by service, perseverance, and the belief that every person deserves the opportunity to succeed. Whether in the classroom, on the baseball field, in the military, or in community leadership, I have worked to bring people together, find common ground, and solve problems. I am running for the Arizona State Senate to continue that service and help build a more affordable, safe, and opportunity-filled future for every family in Legislative District 17.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Arizona families deserve relief from rising costs. My campaign is focused on the kitchen-table issues. Housing, healthcare, and utilities. I will work to make housing more attainable, protect access to affordable healthcare, and hold utilities accountable so working families, seniors, and small businesses are not priced out of their communities.Education changed my life, and I have spent more than 30 years helping students succeed at Pima Community College. I will fight for strong public schools, responsible oversight of taxpayer-funded ESA vouchers, affordable higher education, and greater investment in community colleges, career training, and apprenticeships that prepare Arizonans for good-paying jobs.I am a fifth-generation Arizonan, Tucson native, Marine Corps veteran, educator, and community leader. I am running to serve, not to divide. I will listen to Democrats, Republicans, and independents, find common ground, and focus on practical solutions. I believe the best idea should win, not a political party, and I will always put the people of Legislative District 17 first.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am especially passionate about affordable housing, accessible healthcare, fair utility costs, public education, community colleges, workforce development, veterans’ services, water security, and responsible growth. These issues are connected: families thrive when they can afford a home, receive the care they need, access excellent education and training, and find good-paying jobs in communities with a secure water future. My goal is to expand opportunity while protecting taxpayers and Arizona’s quality of life.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Vote Vets,

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