Rum, Romanism and Rebellion

Sen. David Schapira let the cat out of the bag today: he is a candidate for congress in the brand spanking new CD 9.

The bag, by the way, was made of clear mylar. There was never any question of what mammal was in the bag. Such is the silliness of “exploratory” campaigns.

Schapira’s opponent is Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, who yesterday announced the endorsement of Rep. Chad Campbell and the Arizona Highway Patrol Association. There is still the possibility that State Party Chairman Andrei Cherny will be jumping in. Schapira’s announcement is after the jump.

DAVID SCHAPIRA ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY FOR CONGRESS IN AZ-9TEMPE, ARIZONA – Senate Democratic Leader David Schapira, D-Tempe, announced today

that he is running for Congress in Arizona’s newly created Congressional District 9.

“The residents of this community are on the front lines of turning our economy around. They deserve a representative who will fight every day to create jobs and uphold their values,” said Schapira. “This new district represents an opportunity to send Washington a message that education and jobs should be at the forefront of the national agenda.”

Schapira is a third-generation Arizonan who was born in West Mesa and is the current State Senator for Legislative District 17, encompassing Tempe and South Scottsdale. He has dedicated his life to serving this community as a high school teacher, instructor at Arizona State University, Tempe Union High School District Governing Board member, and smallbusiness owner.

The Arizona Republic recently named Schapira as one of “Tempe’s Exemplary People” in recognition of his commitment to the community in which he lives and serves. The Republic previously recognized him as a “Lawmaker Who Made a Difference.”

“Residents of this district support me because they know my commitment to strengthening education and improving the economy. I’m humbled by the outpouring of support from my neighbors and the broader community as well as from my colleagues, friends and family.”

Before his election to the State Senate in 2010, Schapira served four years as a state representative. He and his wife Rosemary live in Tempe with their two young daughters.

For more information about David Schapira and his campaign, visit his website at www.DavidforAZ.com