Gunnigle Leads Maricopa County Attorney Race As Voters Trust Her On Priority Reforms

Executive Summary

In the race for Maricopa County Attorney between Democrat Julie Gunnigle and Republican Allister Adel, both candidates have claimed the mantle of “reformer,” as polls consistently show broad support for policies that will reduce Arizona’s reliance on prisons and hold police officers accountable for misconduct. In the state’s most populous county, appearing to be the most “tough on crime” is no longer a winning strategy for elected prosecutors.

But who do voters trust more on the reform policies they see as most important?

New polling provides some answers. Between October 22 and October 25, The Justice Collaborative Institute polled 628 registered voters in Maricopa County, weighing the survey to reflect registered voters on race and ethnicity, gender, age, and educational attainment. Overall, Gunnigle holds a 38% to 32% lead over the incumbent Allister Adel, including a 28%-22% lead among independent voters.