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The Issues That Matter

Wednesday, September 16 | 12:30 AM to 3:00 AM

Past Event

The Issues That Matter

A Nonpartisan Look at Arizona's 2026 General Election Ballot

Thank You for Attending

This event has concluded and registration is now closed. We appreciate everyone who joined us.

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Doors Open at 5 PM, Program Begins at 6 PM

The 2026 general election is almost here. Do you know what's on your ballot? Join us at Scottsdale Museum of the West to find out, together.

Come early and wander the galleries, then join us for an evening built around one simple idea: understanding what's actually on your ballot.

Mingle with fellow Arizonans over a reception, hear real stories and real data on the issues shaping this election, and settle in for a nonpartisan dialogue that cuts through the noise.

We are also celebrating the launch of "Unpack the Props: A Ballot Party Host Guide," from Valley Leadership. This guide helps break down information and key arguments about the statewide propositions on the ballot this November. It's designed to help you lead thoughtful, balanced conversations with friends, family, and neighbors about the issues. Pick one up here at the event or at ValleyLeadership.org

Civic and voter organizations will be on hand throughout the evening with resources, information, and the ability to check your voter registration on the spot.

No stage, no spin, just good company and a clearer picture of what's at stake for Arizona.

Event Location

Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West

3830 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale, AZ

Dress Code

Business Casual

Featured Speakers

LaDona Harvey

Co-Host of Arizona's Morning News
KTAR News

Jim Sharpe

Co-Host of Arizona's Morning News
KTAR News

Mike Broomhead

Host of the Mike Broomhead Show
KTAR News

Hugh Lytle

Founder of Equality Health & Former Independent Candidate for Governor

Gina Swoboda

Former Arizona Republican Party Chairwoman & former Candidate for AZ Secretary of State

Isela Blanc

Former Arizona State Representative
Legislative District 26

Raquel Terán

Community Advocate, former AZ Dem Chair, former AZ Senate Minority Leader

Paul Johnson

Former Mayor of Phoenix
No Labels Party Chairman

Justin Harris

Police Sergeant and Immediate Past President of the Arizona Police Association

Run of Show

5:00 p.m.

Doors Open | Wander first. Explore the galleries.

Doors open early so you can take in the museum's exhibits before the program begins. Grab a drink, look around, get comfortable.

6:00 p.m.

Event Program | Hear the issues. Real stories, real data.

Arizona leaders share what's actually shaping this election, democracy and elections, education and workforce, water and energy. Straightforward and easy to follow, no matter where you stand.

6:10

Panel One: Money, Schools, Culture

- Hugh Lytle,  Former Independent Candidate for Arizona Governor - Gina Swaboda, Former Arizona Republican Party Chair - Isela Blanc, Former Arizona State Representative Legislative District 26

6:50

Panel Two: Elections, Democracy & Public Safety

- Raquel Terán, Former Arizona State Senator and Chair of the Arizona Democratic Party. - Paul Johnson, Former Mayor of Phoenix No Labels Party Chairman. - Justin Harris, Police Sergeant and Immediate Past President of the Arizona Police Association

7:30 p.m.

Closing Remarks | Program Ends

Closing thoughts, key information, and resources available

8:00 p.m.

Event Closes

In Partnership With

KTAR News
Western Spirit Museum: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
Empower
Valley Leadership

Event Photos

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