SAFFORD — The Grand Old Party has upped its visibility in the Gila Valley.
On Friday, the Graham County Republican Committee cut the ribbon opening its new headquarters on U.S. Highway 70, next to Sarah’s Bullpen.
“We’ve already had people . . . driving by and honking at us already,” said Marianne Clonts, Graham County Republican Committee chair. “It’s great to have a high-profile place, somewhere that people can just stop, pick up signs and talk to our representatives.”
In addition to campaign materials, the new headquarters will have voter-registration forms and Republican merchandise available for purchase.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
On hand for the grand opening were a number of elected officials, speaking with voters, including Safford Vice Mayor Arnold Lopez, Thatcher Vice Mayor Jenny Howard, Graham County Supervisor John Howard and all three of Graham County Representatives in the state Legislature — Sate Rep. Lupe Diaz, state Rep. Gail Griffin and state Sen. David Gowan.
Diaz, Griffin and Gowan are all seeking re-election this year, with all three facing a Democratic challenger in the Nov. 5 General Election. Gowan said he’s telling voters to look at his track record.
“You show up and do the job,” Gowan said. “So that’s what I plan to do. I plan to continue to support my communities, make sure the roads get paved — the state highway, right — and make sure the farmers get the things they need.”
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
The owners donated use of the building to serve as the local Republican headquarters through the General Election. It previously served as the Graham County Democratic Committee Headquarters for the 2020 election cycle.
