State Representative Kevin Payne will run for the State Senate in 2022. His announcement came after hearing from voters, precinct committeemen, and other Republican elected officials asking him to run for the seat being vacated by State Senator Rick Gray.
“I have really enjoyed my time in the State House and am proud of the work we have done for families and taxpayers, as well as the work I’ve done as Chairman of the House Military Affairs & Public Safety Committee,” said Payne, adding “but I agree with everyone that we need a proven conservative in the State Senate as Arizona continues to deal with real challenges and threats to our liberties and economic future.”
Payne’s first endorsement came from fellow State Representative Beverly Pingerelli, who said that while the House would miss Payne’s calm leadership, the district would be best served by adding him to the Senate.
“Kevin is a no-nonsense conservative whose calm strength and commitment to conservative ideals will continue to make a positive difference in the State Senate, and I look forward to campaigning for him between now and election day!” said Pingerelli.
Payne was one of the Democratic Party’s top targets in 2020 and more than $1M was spent to beat him, but he still won by nearly 2,500 votes despite being outspent more than 5 to 1.
Payne consistently scores high marks from groups that rank legislators on family, tax, 2nd amendment, school choice, border security, and other issues.