Pro-Trump GOP candidate Jeff Zink emerged victorious in Tuesday’s primary in Arizona’s heavily Democratic 3rd Congressional District, setting the stage for a contentious battle in the upcoming general election.
Zink, who previously ran for the seat in 2022, defeated Jesús David Mendoza, a young software engineer and political newcomer who positioned himself as the more moderate Republican in the race. Despite his win, Zink faces an uphill battle in the deeply blue district, which is majority Latino and Hispanic and includes significant portions of Phoenix.
The seat is being vacated by Rep. Ruben Gallego, who is leaving to run for Senate against Republican candidate Kari Lake in November. Gallego, a progressive military veteran, has represented the district since 2023 and is expected to secure the Democratic nomination for the Senate race.
Zink’s alignment with former President Trump and his attendance at the controversial Jan. 6, 2021 rally have drawn attention to his candidacy. The nonpartisan Cook Political Report ranks the district as D+24, making it the most left-wing congressional district in Arizona.
As the battle for control of Congress heats up, all eyes will be on Arizona’s 3rd Congressional District as the general election approaches. Stay tuned for more updates on this crucial race.
