PHOENIX — The office for Rachel Mitchell, who is fighting to keep her title as Maricopa County Attorney, declared victory Monday morning, while votes continue to be counted.
The race has still not yet been called by Associated Press. Julie Gunnigle, the Democratic candidate for the position, is trailing 48% to Mitchell's 52%, with 77% reporting, according to the latest vote results on Monday morning.
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The Mitchell For Maricopa Campaign released the following statement by Mitchell Monday morning:
"Thank you, Maricopa County!
"As a lifelong Arizonan who has dedicated my career to the safety of our neighborhoods and families, I am deeply honored this community has overwhelmingly shown its support and trust in my leadership of the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. I’d also like to thank the staff at MCAO for their tireless work standing up for victims and seeking justice for those who have been wronged. It is an honor to stand with you in these efforts.
"Public safety isn’t partisan. All Arizonans demand safe communities in which to live, work and raise their children. I will continue working with law enforcement and community leaders to hold criminals accountable, increase the use of treatment to rehabilitate where appropriate, deliver justice for victims, and put the safety of Maricopa County residents first."
Gunnigle's team responded with a statement later Monday morning:
“This isn’t the result we were hoping for because what it means is a continuation of the legacy of corruption within the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. Maricopa County residents deserve better. That said, I want to thank every voter, volunteer, and supporter who worked tirelessly to do better for our community. The change we need won’t happen this year, but we aren’t deterred. We vow to keep our eye on this office and, along with the community, continue to demand better for all people in Maricopa County.”
