Mormon voters in Arizona's 5th District balk at scandal-tainted GOP nominee
LDS members in Arizona's 5th Congressional District are reluctant to support Republican nominee Mark Lamb after allegations of sexual misconduct and racism, raising doubts about his appeal to the faith's voters.
In Arizona's 5th Congressional District, a sizable LDS population is questioning the suitability of Republican nominee Mark Lamb, a former sheriff accused of multiple affairs, sexually explicit communications and racist comments. Mormon voters including former Republican Kimberly Tait, independent Holly Anderson and Suzanne Lunt say Lamb's conduct conflicts with the church's emphasis on chastity and integrity, making his campaign slogan "God, Family, Freedom" feel hollow.
Lamb, endorsed by Donald Trump, remains the favorite in a district that voted heavily for Trump in the last presidential election, but his scandals may erode traditional Mormon support. Democrat Elizabeth Lee, a nurse, is positioning herself as a credible alternative, highlighting local issues such as gas, housing and water costs. Political scientists note the district's rapid growth and a large independent electorate of about 195,000 could be decisive, especially as Trump’s approval in Arizona hits a historic low. Both campaigns are intensifying door-to-door outreach, hoping to sway the increasingly skeptical LDS voters.
Why it matters
The race could signal shifting political loyalties among Mormon voters in a key Arizona district.
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