Arizona Senate Democrats Condemn Political Violence and Threats Ahead of Midterm Elections

PHOENIX, AZ – As the 2026 midterm elections approach, Arizona Senate Democrats condemn the disturbing pattern of threats, harassment and violence targeting candidates, elected officials and their families across Arizona and the nation. The latest reported death threats and antisemitic attacks against Arizona Democratic candidate Tammy Caputi and her family are another alarming reminder that political disagreements are crossing dangerous lines.

"Enough is enough. No candidate, elected official or family should fear for their lives because of political disagreements," said Senate Democratic Assistant Leader Catherine Miranda. "The reported threats against Tammy Caputi and her family are unacceptable. Political disagreements are part of democracy. Threatening to kill someone is not. Violence cannot become the price of public service."

Caputi's experience is far from isolated. Democratic candidate Bernadette Greene-Placentia reported being physically and sexually assaulted while repairing campaign signs in Sun City. Last week, the Arizona Secretary of State's Office was evacuated after a suspicious envelope containing white powder was opened.

"Public officials must be held accountable for their decisions, policies and conduct. That's how democracy works," said Senate Democratic Leader Priya Sundareshan. "But accountability happens through public debate and at the ballot box, not through threats or violence. Intimidation must never silence public servants or undermine the right of voters to make their own choices."

Democratic members of the Arizona Legislature have also faced multiple threats. Senator Analise Ortiz has endured repeated harassment and threats, while Representative Alma Hernandez has taken extensive security measures at her home following threats against her and her family, including an incident in which an aide's vehicle was struck by gunfire.

"Behind every elected official is a family, a staff and a community. None of them signed up to become targets of violence," said Senate Democratic Whip Rosanna Gabaldón. "We've seen threats through social media, emails, phone calls and even at people's homes. This is not normal, and we must never accept it as normal. Leaders have a responsibility to reject this behavior.”

"We can disagree passionately about policies without threatening one another," said Senate Democratic Chair Lela Alston. "Political campaigns and their ads must be responsible. Challenging someone's record is fair game, but targeting families, exploiting personal trauma or fueling hostility crosses a line. Political leaders must reject violence and intimidation, regardless of party.”

Political violence has no place in Arizona or anywhere in our country. No election, political disagreement or partisan victory is worth a human life.