Michiel Montiel

Michiel Montiel served in the U.S. Army from 2001 to 2005. He graduated from Superior High School. He earned an associate degree from Mesa Community College and a bachelor's degree from Arizona State University.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m a fourth-generation Arizonan, Army combat veteran, community leader, and lifelong resident of rural Arizona who has spent years building local organizations, supporting veterans, and working to strengthen my community. I'm running for the Arizona State Senate because working families deserve leaders who will focus on affordability, healthcare, education, and practical solutions that help communities thrive rather than fueling division and political theater.

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?

**Affordability:** Arizona families are being squeezed by rising costs in housing, utilities, healthcare, groceries, and insurance while wages often fail to keep pace. I support increasing the supply of attainable housing, reducing barriers that drive up costs, and investing in infrastructure that supports long-term economic growth. I also believe in greater transparency and accountability in utility rates and government spending to ensure taxpayers are getting real value. My focus is on practical solutions that help working families, veterans, teachers, and first responders afford to live and stay in the communities they serve, without being priced out of their own future.**Healthcare:** I believe every Arizonan should have access to affordable, reliable healthcare regardless of income or geography. Too many rural communities lack adequate access to primary care, emergency services, mental health care, and specialty providers. I support strengthening rural healthcare systems, expanding provider capacity, improving emergency response infrastructure, and reducing cost barriers that prevent people from seeking care early. I also believe we must do more to support veterans, seniors, and working families by addressing prescription drug costs and improving access to preventative and behavioral health services so small health issues don’t become major crises.Here’s a tightened version that stays under 750 characters:

Education:** I believe Arizona’s future depends on strong public schools that prepare every child for success, regardless of ZIP code. We must invest in recruiting and retaining quality teachers by improving pay, reducing burnout, and restoring respect for the profession. I support strengthening core academics while also expanding access to career and technical education, trades, and hands-on learning opportunities. Parents, teachers, and local communities should have a meaningful voice in education policy, and funding should be directed to classrooms where it makes the most impact. My focus is on ensuring students graduate with real skills, confidence, and opportunity.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about policies that improve affordability, expand access to quality healthcare, and strengthen public education. I also care deeply about supporting veterans and working families, improving rural infrastructure and emergency services, and ensuring communities have access to economic opportunity and attainable housing. I focus on practical, results-driven solutions that make everyday life more stable and affordable while strengthening local communities. I’m especially interested in policies that reduce barriers, increase access to essential services, and help people build long-term security and opportunity where they live.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Vote Vets; The Sierra Club.