The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors has appointed Dr. Elda Luna Najera to represent the 22nd Legislative District in the Arizona House of Representatives. LD-22 is located in the West Valley and includes Tolleson and Avondale.
“I couldn’t think of a better person to fill this vacancy in LD-22,” said District 5 Supervisor Steve Gallardo. Luna Najera is a respected community leader in the West Valley, and her experience in the education system will be a great addition to the Arizona Legislature. I can't wait to see what great things she does with this opportunity. ”
Dr. Luna Najera has served as a board member for the Tolleson Union High School District since September 2020. She has worked for the Agua Fria Union High School District in Avondale since July 2016, managing programs focused on mental health, crisis intervention, and homelessness. and foster care. She earned her doctorate in social work from the University of Southern California and her master's degree in social work from Arizona State University, West Campus.
Dr. Luna Najera was selected by a citizens committee tasked with filling the vacancy. The candidate chosen had to be a current resident of LD-22 and a member of the same political party as the outgoing member. In this case, it's the Democratic Party.
The following people served on the Citizens Committee:
- Lorenzo Sierra, Avondale resident and former Assemblyman (Chairman)
- Sandra Cole, LD-22 District Chair, Retired
- Francisca Montoya, Fowler Elementary School Board Member
- Adan Morad, Tolleson business owner
- Eleanor Perez, Tolleson resident
Dr. Luna Najera will serve the remainder of her term. Her position will appear on the November 2024 general election ballot.
