Michele Peña
Advocating for Arizona
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Why I Serve
Dear Neighbors,
As a lifelong resident of Yuma and the daughter of a mother who immigrated from Mexico seeking a better life, I understand the values that bind our community: faith, family, hard work, and service. My father, a proud Texan and Vietnam veteran, instilled in me a deep respect for our country and the importance of giving back.
Since being elected to the Arizona House of Representatives in 2022, I’ve dedicated myself to addressing the unique needs of our district. From championing agricultural initiatives that support our local farmers to advocating for educational policies that empower parents and protect our children’s futures, my focus has always been on delivering results that matter to Yuma families.
In 2023, I sponsored numerous bills to support our agricultural economy, update our infrastructure, and improve Arizona’s healthcare. I’ve also been a steadfast supporter of parental rights in education and have worked to increase opportunities for our veterans.
As we look toward the future, I remain committed to policies that uphold our freedoms, strengthen our economy, and preserve the way of life we cherish in Yuma County, Pima County, and Goodyear. Your trust and support have been the cornerstone of my service, and I would be honored to continue representing you in the Arizona House.
Together, let’s keep Arizona strong.
God Bless,
Representative Michele Peña
Issues
Education
Transparency and open communication are crucial for both parents and schools to ensure that all curricula adhere to basic academics, leaving no room for political influence from teachers, counselors, or school staff.
Every child is unique, and parents are best suited to determine their education choices. That’s why I support Arizona’s Universal Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA), a program that continues to grow and should not surprise naysayers claiming ESAs would harm public school funding.
The total funding for K-12 public education in Arizona is now projected to reach $14,673 per child, setting a new spending record and surpassing the cost of college at institutions like Arizona State University. These facts demonstrate that ESAs save the state money and provide parents, teachers, and students with the flexibility to choose the education that best fits their needs.
Your zip code shouldn’t dictate your future, and I will always advocate for choice and access in education.
Agriculture
Arizona plays a vital role in our country’s agriculture, food, and livestock sectors, impacting the lives of our nation’s farmers. Today, the agriculture industry confronts new challenges, and my family’s long standing connections to southern Arizona and the agricultural industry have provided me with firsthand insight into these issues.
During my first year in office, I focused on legislation aimed at safeguarding Arizona farmers by beginning efforts to reform egg expiry laws that create obstacles for our local community.
Fiscal Responsibility
In 2023, I endorsed a balanced budget, and my commitment to fiscal responsibility remains unwavering. Our children’s future shouldn’t be jeopardized for immediate gains. I advocate for boosting our state’s rainy day fund, ensuring financial stability for generations to come.
Water
I advocate for sustained water conservation initiatives across Arizona. Crises similar to what occurred in Rio Verde and those faced by our tribal communities must be eradicated. We should strive for the establishment of a statewide water market, initiate desalination projects, renegotiate the Colorado River Compact, and implement more comprehensive measures.
Water is the lifeblood of our communities, and I will resist any efforts to diminish or restrict water access for the people of Arizona – especially our farmers.
Healthcare
Many Arizona families grapple with concerns over healthcare expenses. I advocate for policies that enhance transparency and affordability in the healthcare market. Accessible health insurance is crucial, and individuals should not face exploitation by insurance companies or hospitals.
Opposing Corruption
In my first year of office, I defeated a bill that would have doubled the lobbyist gift limit and another bill that would have allowed political candidates to spend campaign donations on their family members. Additionally, I supported HB2459, a bill that passed into law and combats corruption in our school boards.
I stand unabashedly opposed to all forms of corruption in our government.
