The Arizona general election will be held on November 6, 2012, with early voting starting on October 11. After the many recent legislative challenges to reproductive health care access, both nationally and statewide, the importance of voting in November can’t be overstated. To help voters, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona has endorsed candidates who have shown strong commitment to reproductive health and freedom. Along with those endorsements, we are spotlighting our endorsed candidates in a series called “Meet Our Candidates.” To vote in the general election, you must register to vote by October 9 — and can even register online. Make your voice heard in 2012!
[B]arbara McGuire is a lifelong resident of Arizona, though with recent redistricting, the exact number of her district has changed. Born in Ray-Sonora, Arizona, she served in the Arizona House of Representatives from 2006 to 2010, representing the former Legislative District 23. She is currently seeking election to the Arizona Senate in the newly drawn Legislative District 8, an area that extends as far north as Globe, as far south as Oracle and San Manuel, as far east as the border of Graham County, and as far west as the I-10 corridor.
Rep. McGuire graciously took the time for an interview with Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona on October 3, 2012.
“People should be able to make their own health care choices.”
Tell us a little about your background.
As a third generation Arizona native, District 8 has been a big part of my life. I grew up in the Copper Corridor, gained hardworking values in a multi-ethnic mining community, raised my children in the same town, and now spend summers with my grandson in the same community. My mother, brother, and my in-laws all have homes within a few minutes of mine. All the places in District 8 encompass this fantastic sense of family.
Being rooted in the district is an essential element of this position. As I raised my family, I also opened a travel agency, a people-based business. As times have changed, I put more effort into working as the Salvation Army extension unit director for the Copper Corridor and surrounding area. This makes a great difference to many families in need that may otherwise be forgotten because they live in rural areas. I received Salvation Army’s Distinguished Service Award and in 2004 I was named Citizen of the Year by the people in my hometown. It has been an honor serving four years in the House of Representatives. All honors that I truly appreciate! Continue reading