Former state Rep. Phil Lovas is jumping into the special election race to replace U.S. Rep. Trent Franks.
Wednesday’s announcement from the Peoria Republican means at least three well-known GOP candidates are vying for the seat Franks vacated last week amid sexual harassment allegations.
State Sen. Steve Montenegro and former utility regulator Bob Stump announced their runs Monday after the special election dates were set for Feb. 27 and April 24. Several lesser-known GOP candidates have filed for the office and others are expected in the heavily-Republican district covering the northwest Phoenix suburbs.
Lovas left the state House early this year for a job in the Trump Administration after overseeing the president’s 2016 Arizona campaign operations. 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In the upcoming election to fill the seat of Trent Franks, there is one person that would be an instant shoe-in: Debbie Lesko. If she would jump in, she would win! Take a look at the competition. Bob Stump? Just look at your APS bill. I am sure that his campaign will be partially funded by them. Rep. Montenegro? He worked for Trent Franks and I am sure will be endorsed by him. Really? And Phil Lovas. Who?
Nope. Debbie Lesko would be the one to beat—IF she jumps in.