Senator Leach Will Not run Again, King in for LD-17 GOP
SBINSIDER REPORTING| September 12th, 2025
While very early in the cycle, movement is happening in LD-17 which is the state district wherein SaddleBrooke and SaddleBrooke Ranch voters reside. This week, State Senator Vince Leach announced that he would not be on the ballot in 2026. Leach, first elected in 2014, lost a primary to Justine Wadsack in 2022 and came back to defeat her resoundingly in a 2024 rematch.
In making his announcement, Leach citied health concerns with multiple spine surgeries and the possibility of more to come as the primary reason for retiring in 2027. “I still have a passion for conservative values and wanting a better life for all in Arizona, but there comes a time when stepping aside is the best choice. I am confident that Chris King will carry the torch forward as our next Senator.”
When asked about his time of service and most important bills that he helped pass he cited:
- 2.5% Flat Tax Income tax. (When it was passed, it was the lowest flat tax in the nation)
- Increased rainy day fund from $500K to $1.5 mil
- Reduced state debt, paid off pension debt of >$2 mil
- Reduced the size of the State gov’t by 5K people
- Reduced Biz Tax by lowering the Assessment ratio
- Eliminated the State portion of property tax
Leach has endorsed Christopher King as his replacement. King is a Vail school board member and retired Air Force veteran.
EDITOR’S NOTE: In Arizona, a legislative district elects a Senator and two House members. The district geographic boundaries are identical. So, all three legislators represent the exact same geographic area. Our area composes about 1/3rd of LD-17, which travels south-westerly into Pima County mainly through Oro Valley.
