Phoenix school board member resigns after calls for resignation

Jeremiah Cota stepped down from the Phoenix Union High School Governing Board amid controversy over his attendance at a conservative event.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Jeremiah Cota, a member of the Phoenix Union High School Governing Board, announced his resignation on Friday after facing calls from community members to step down. The controversy stemmed from Cota's attendance at a holiday party hosted by the conservative organization "Republicans for National Renewal" in December, where he was photographed with long-time Trump ally Roger Stone.

Why it matters

The resignation highlights the ongoing tensions and political divisions within local school board politics, as community members scrutinize board members' associations and beliefs. It also raises questions about the appropriate boundaries for school board members' personal and political activities.

The details

Cota, who was appointed to the board last year, said he was resigning due to the "outright persecution" and "baseless and unfounded accusations" he has endured as a board member. Community members had spoken at a school board meeting on Feb. 5 and demanded that Cota resign for attending the conservative event, and a petition had also been launched calling for his resignation.

  • Cota attended a holiday party hosted by "Republicans for National Renewal" in December 2025.
  • On February 5, 2026, community members spoke before the school board and demanded Cota's resignation.
  • On February 13, 2026, Cota announced his resignation from the Phoenix Union High School Governing Board, effective immediately.

The players

Jeremiah Cota

A member of the Phoenix Union High School Governing Board who resigned after facing calls for his resignation due to his attendance at a conservative event.

Republicans for National Renewal

A conservative organization that hosted the holiday party Cota attended, which was criticized by community members for reportedly being associated with extremist beliefs.

Roger Stone

A long-time ally of former President Donald Trump, who Cota was photographed with at the holiday party.

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What they’re saying

“I have been stunned to see how this board and district have engaged in a pattern of harassment and discrimination against fellow community members and board members, including the baseless and unfounded accusations against myself.”

— Jeremiah Cota (Twitter)

What’s next

The Phoenix Union High School Governing Board will now need to appoint a new member to fill Cota's vacant seat.

The takeaway

This resignation highlights the ongoing political tensions and divisions that can arise within local school board politics, as community members scrutinize board members' associations and beliefs. It underscores the need for school board members to navigate these issues carefully and maintain the trust of their constituents.