Arizona Candidate Supported Decriminalizing Sex Work in 2020 Interview

A Democrat running for an Arizona congressional seat said in a 2020 interview that she supported decriminalizing sex work. The remarks came during a Zoom discussion with the president of Equality Arizona. The nonprofit leader asked whether the candidate would back decriminalization after noting that some transgender individuals turn to sex work.

The candidate replied that she supported legalizing prostitution and called for ending what she described as discriminatory laws and practices. She also said the change would help members of the LGBTQ community gain access to employment and social services.

The candidate added that people should not be criminalized for circumstances they face.

Background on the Candidate The candidate previously served in the Marine Corps as a drill sergeant and gunnery sergeant and deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. She is running against the Republican incumbent in the November election. The district is listed among roughly 18 competitive races nationwide.

The candidate has raised more than $5.3 million and received support from two Democratic senators from Arizona.

A National Republican Congressional Committee spokesperson said the candidate's priorities were misplaced. The spokesperson stated that the focus should instead be on reducing costs tied to drug use and crime. The video has been removed from Equality Arizona's social media accounts. Neither the candidate nor the Republican incumbent faces a primary opponent before the July 21 primary.