As the first debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump approaches, local officials for both major parties in Southern Arizona are highlighting key issues they believe will resonate with voters.
Paul Cunningham, a Democrat on the Tucson City Council, emphasized the importance of the debate as a critical moment for Harris.
“She’s got to let folks know that she’s ready for the moment,” he said, contrasting with Trump, who Cunningham believes has shown a decline in his communication effectiveness. “His rambling has kind of become incessant.”
Steve Christy, a Republican Pima County Supervisor, echoed concerns over the economy, a topic he expects to dominate the debate.
“Inflation and rising costs of goods and services, particularly food and gasoline prices, are universal issues,” Christy said, emphasizing their impact on all voters regardless of political affiliation.
State Representative Stephanie Stahl Hamilton, a Democrat, highlighted housing and education as top issues in Arizona.