YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – The future of the position currently held by Richard Colwell is in doubt at the Yuma County Recorder's Office, with David Lara continuing at the helm and a change in leadership could be imminent once the results become official.

David Lara, a current Yuma Union High School District board member and successful business owner, is running a campaign characterized by a grassroots approach. Lara's campaign strategy focuses on direct engagement with voters and operating on a low budget.

Reflecting on his own election campaign, Lara said, “I've lost 11 elections in a row, so every election is a learning experience. Elections make you grow as a person and you learn from your mistakes, but they also teach you about the electoral system.”

Despite limited campaign funding, Lara is optimistic about his ability to effect positive change at the Recorder's Office. With the right tools and support, he believes, staff in the office can be more effective.

“We have a great staff here, and if you give them more tools, give me more tools, teach them the tricks of the trade, they're only going to get better,” Lara said.

Lara's tenacity and commitment to continuous improvement are at the heart of his campaign. “This is just one example because you always have to be doing something. You can't stop,” he added.

Lara respects his opponent but is confident in his own qualities for the role. “I think highly of him, I think he's a respectable person. There's nothing mean about him, but I think I can do it better,” Lara said.

Regardless of the outcome of the election, Lara is proud of the hard work and dedication he put into it.

On the Democratic side, Emilia Cortez is running as an official nominee.

Under county rules, to appear on the ballot, Cortez must receive the most votes in his precinct and meet a minimum number of signatures on his nominating petition.

We will continue to monitor this developing race and provide updates.