TUCSON, Ariz. — Incumbent Democrat Supervisor Sharon Bronson hopes to continue her work of growing the economy, protecting the environment and social equity, while Republican Gabriela Saucedo Mercer hopes to bring transparency to the public if elected.
District Three is the only district that touches the southern border. In fact, about 130 miles stretches across District Three.
When it comes to border security, both candidates say they would vote to continue Operation Stone Garden funds.
“Just because they call it controversy, they have in the past, they have always bought into surplus money. It's right there on the tables $5 million. That is supposed to go-to for law enforcement so they can do overtime, so they can buy equipment,” said Saucedo Mercer.
Bronson explained why she voted to approve the funds this past fiscal year.
“I've worked with ranchers along the 286 corridor. There are security issues. Do we need a law enforcement presence there? Absolutely, which is why I voted in favor of the budget this year which bonds those officers."
Bronson said she is most proud of developing the Arizona Border County Coalition, which works with other regions that touch the southern border on security and economic issues.
As for the ongoing pandemic, Supervisor Bronson said the board has made several tough choices, especially with balancing keeping the economy going while keeping people safe.
“Pima County is the health provider in the region. So, we have been forced to close down businesses. And we are gradually reopening now. So that we can begin to navigate the new normal,” she explained.
Whereas, Saucedo Mercer criticized the board’s approach to COVID-19. She instead believes the people should be given the right to make their own choices.
“The board has destroyed, businesses [and] has destroyed lives. They don't allow us to go to work [and] they don't allow us to do just a normal thing, said Saucedo Mercer.