Tucson Residents Speak Out on Local Issues

Readers share their views on the RTA Next plan, Olympic athletes' free speech, and other Tucson-area topics.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Tucson residents express a range of opinions on local issues, including the RTA Next transportation plan, the actions of Olympic athletes, and concerns over mail-in voting procedures. The letters cover topics like road expansion, public transit funding, political protests, and election integrity.

Why it matters

This collection of letters to the editor provides insight into the diverse perspectives and concerns of Tucson-area residents on important civic and political matters. The feedback reflects the ongoing debates and discussions shaping the future of the community.

The details

The letters cover a variety of local issues, including opposition to the RTA Next transportation plan, support for Olympic athletes' free speech, concerns over ICE hiring practices, and questions about the privacy of mail-in voting procedures. Residents argue both for and against the RTA Next proposal, with some citing a need for progress and others criticizing the plan's focus on outlying areas over the city itself. There are also letters addressing topics like university naming rights, the fate of Rillito Downs racetrack, and a controversial state bill targeting protests.

  • The letters were published on February 15, 2026.

The players

Deb Klumpp

A resident of Oro Valley, Arizona.

Ryland Plassmann

A young resident of Midtown Tucson.

John McConnaughey

A resident of Oro Valley, Arizona.

Art Wadlund

A resident of the Foothills area of Tucson.

Shirley Maddox

A resident of Tucson's East side.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

The letters highlight the diverse range of views and concerns held by Tucson residents on key local issues, reflecting the ongoing debates and discussions shaping the future of the community.