In Arizona's 5th Congressional District, a conservative stronghold, Latter-day Saints women are reevaluating their support for Republican candidate Mark Lamb. The district, covering eastern Phoenix suburbs and Pinal County, has seen rapid population growth and is predominantly Republican. However, Lamb's scandal-plagued past, including allegations of racist remarks and sexual misconduct, has raised concerns among LDS voters. Kimberly Tait, a Gilbert resident and LDS member, switched her affiliation to independent in 2016 due to the Republican Party's shift under President Trump.
Lamb's campaign slogan, "God, Family, Freedom," has been met with skepticism by Tait and other LDS voters. They question Lamb's adherence to the faith and his political motivations, citing allegations of dishonesty in his public and private life. The LDS church holds chastity and moral integrity as sacred values, and members who fail to uphold these covenants may face disciplinary actions, including excommunication. The Arizona Republic reported that church leaders investigated claims about Lamb's sexual improprieties.
Historically, Mormons have voted for Republicans, but their allegiance has waned over the past two decades. In neighboring Utah, where the LDS church is predominant, Trump faced significant opposition. In Arizona, LDS voters like Holly Anderson have become more independent, prioritizing character and personal values over party affiliation. Anderson, who admires former Senator John McCain and Mitt Romney, believes that supporting Lamb would be hypocritical given his alleged misconduct.
Suzanne Lunt, another independent LDS voter, has also distanced herself from the Republican Party. After the January 6, 2021, US Capitol attack, Lunt left the party and co-chaired the Republicans for Biden committee in the 2024 presidential election. She believes that Lamb's actions are contrary to the principles of her faith and that he lacks character. Lunt's sentiments are echoed by Tait, who worries about the message that supporting Lamb would send to her children.
Arizona State University professor Kim Fridkin notes that the district's population growth has brought in people from other states, including California, who are seeking a more conservative environment. However, Fridkin also observes that LDS voters in the district are increasingly critical of partisan politics. As the general election approaches, Lamb's candidacy is expected to be closely watched, with some predicting a closer-than-expected race due to his lack of appeal to Mormon voters.
Despite the allegations against him, Lamb remains favored to win the general election. He has denied all allegations, calling them "lies" during an event at the Encores Conservative Club in June. However, his opponents argue that his actions are at odds with the values of the LDS church. As voters in the district head to the polls, they will have to weigh Lamb's conservative credentials against his scandal-plagued past.
The outcome of the election in Arizona's 5th Congressional District may have implications for the Republican Party's future in the state. As LDS voters like Tait, Anderson, and Lunt increasingly prioritize character and personal values, the party may need to adapt to changing voter sentiments. With two LDS temples located within the district, the election will be closely watched by faith communities and political observers alike.
Key points
- LDS voters in Arizona's 5th Congressional District are questioning their support for Republican candidate Mark Lamb amid allegations of misconduct.
- The allegations against Lamb have raised concerns about his character and adherence to the LDS faith.
- Historically, Mormons have voted for Republicans, but their allegiance has waned over the past two decades.
