John,
The results are in, and sadly we came up short. We have been proud to run this campaign on a message of positivity – always looking to a brighter future even as roadblocks are thrown in our path. Because where else could a kid from Istanbul have the chance to run for office and to represent the community he calls home?
It has been an honor to run in this race with strong candidates who share my values and connect with our community. While I am sad that this is the end of my journey in this race, I know Patty and Stacey will represent LD 12 well, and I am excited to see them in the Legislature next year.
Thank you to everyone and every organization who has supported me and believed in me along the way. Thank you to everyone who helped me knock on doors, dial voters, put up signs, donated, and so much more. I have been so humbled by your support. I especially want to thank my partner and the love of my life, Victoria. I couldn’t have done this without her!
I’m not going anywhere, so I know I’ll see you at the doors soon. I will still be here for Democrats, Save Our Schools, and in this fight for our future. Let’s make Arizona a state where everyone has the chance to achieve their dreams: where it’s a little bit easier to start a business, where our kids are going to thriving public schools, and where our communities are flourishing.
Let’s continue together to make sure every day is a little brighter than the last for Arizonans.
– AJ
P.S. Save Our Schools needs our help to protect public education and stop voucher expansion in Arizona. Please consider volunteering your time or donating to support their ballot initiative. Click here to get involved or learn more!
