Arizona Voters Divided on Trump as Midterms Approach

Residents of central Arizona grapple with the complexities of their political environment as they prepare for the midterm elections.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Voters in Arizona's 1st Congressional District are expressing mixed feelings about the upcoming midterm elections, particularly in the context of President Trump's administration and its lasting impacts on national politics. The community is divided between supporters and critics of Trump, with many residents voicing their concerns about various policies and their implications.

Why it matters

As a prime battleground for the November elections, the outcome in Arizona's 1st Congressional District could have significant implications for the balance of power in Congress and the continued influence of the Trump administration's policies. The district has seen a shift in political dynamics, with the 2020 election narrowly won by Biden and the 2024 election secured by Trump, reflecting the evolving political landscape in the state.

The details

Residents of central Arizona are grappling with the complexities of their political environment as they prepare for the midterms. Voter sentiments reveal a stark contrast between those who view Trump as a transformative figure and those who see him as a source of division and uncertainty. Supporters cite economic indicators such as lower gas prices and a rising stock market, while critics express deep concern about the future of the country. Key issues at stake include immigration and economic policy, with the district's open congressional seat generating interest among a variety of candidates.

  • The 2020 election saw Biden narrowly win the district with 50% of the vote.
  • In the 2024 election, Trump secured 51% of the vote in the district.

The players

Elizabeth H.

A resident who wished to remain anonymous, she shared her apprehensions about the current political climate and the perceived aggressive tactics of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the Trump administration.

Anthony D.

A 66-year-old plumbing contractor who expressed unwavering support for Trump, believing that the administration is steering the country in a positive direction.

Moe Modjeski

A 69-year-old financial advisor from Scottsdale who declared, "I'll take his policies over someone that might be nice and polite," reflecting a pragmatic approach to the current political landscape.

Liz R.

A 75-year-old retired medical technologist who expressed deep concern about the future, stating, "I lived through the '60s and 70s and can't remember a time when I feared so much for the future of our country."

Brent Bond

A 59-year-old artist from Scottsdale who articulated some voters' hopes for the midterms, expressing a desire for a Democratic Congress to provide checks on Trump's presidency.

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What they’re saying

“I think the climate imposed by the Trump administration is really sad and scary.”

— Elizabeth H.

“We finally don't have a— in office that are destroying our country and worrying about everybody else in the world.”

— Anthony D.

“I'll take his policies over someone that might be nice and polite.”

— Moe Modjeski, financial advisor

“I lived through the '60s and 70s and can't remember a time when I feared so much for the future of our country.”

— Liz R., retired medical technologist

“I don't think they should only impeach, I think they should imprison.”

— Brent Bond, artist

What’s next

With Republican Dave Schweikert stepping down to pursue a gubernatorial run, the district is now open to a variety of candidates, creating one of the few toss-up races nationwide. This development has generated interest among voters but has not yet translated into widespread engagement.

The takeaway

The contrast between Trump supporters and critics will likely play a significant role in determining the outcome of the midterm elections in Arizona's 1st Congressional District. The voice of the electorate will be crucial in shaping the future political landscape in Arizona and beyond.