Barbara LaWall defeats Democratic challenger in county attorney race

Barbara LaWall has defeated her Democratic challenger in the heated primary race for Pima County attorney.

Joel Feinman conceded to LaWall in a news release early Wednesday, thanking his supporters and reiterating his dedication to reforming the justice system.

“After a long hard fight, it is evident the election did not go the way we had hoped,” said Feinman. “This doesn’t mean we will lose heart. Mass incarceration is still a problem in our community, and the Pima County justice system still needs reform to better serve us all.”

LaWall came out ahead as early election results began to roll in Tuesday night, and maintained a solid lead throughout.

“I am grateful beyond words to be able to continue my leadership in the office and to work on your behalf to protect the public safety of Pima County,” LaWall posted on her campaign’s Facebook page Wednesday afternoon. She could not be reached for comment.

LaWall declined to debate Feinman early into the campaign, saying that she didn’t believe her seat was open. In an aggressive campaign, Feinman implied that she was soft on crime, and chose to pursue nonviolent drug offenders over cases such as sexual assaults.

LaWall will face Green Party candidate Cyndi Tuell in the Nov. 8 general election. There is no Republican candidate.

Early voting begins in six weeks.

Sheriff’s race

Back to homepage

Subscriber Login

Keep reading with a digital access subscription.

Subscribe now

Republican Mark Napier took an early lead in the primary race for sheriff on Tuesday night, with nearly twice the votes of his opponent, Terry Staten.

On Wednesday morning, Staten acknowledged his loss on Facebook and said that he planned to support Napier during the general election in any way possible.

“I entered this race because with all of my heart and soul I believe change is needed at the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. Not winning the Primary Election has not, in any way, changed that belief,” the post said. “Despite our differences in the campaign, I truly believe Mark Napier is a good, honest and just man.”

Napier faces Sheriff Chris Nanos, who ran unopposed in the Democratic Primary, in November.

Assessor’s race

Incumbent Bill Staples defeated challenger Brian Johnson in the Democratic primary. Staples faces independent candidate Suzanne Droubie in November.

Schools superintendent

Dustin Williams remained ahead of Michael Gordy in the Democratic Primary. The winner will face Republican Margaret Burkholder in November.

The county elections department was still processing about 18,000 votes Wednesday evening.