Arizona Senate District 16

About this race

Thomas "T.J." Shope (Republican), Elaine Aldrete (Democratic) are on the November 3 ballot for Arizona Senate District 16; Thomas "T.J." Shope is the sitting member, per the azleg.gov member roster (57th Legislature). Nominees were chosen at the July 28 primary or by petition/nomination for minor parties and independents. The field is the Secretary of State's 2026 General Election (Election 69) certified candidate list, as read September 10, 2026. This seat is elected by district; only the district covering your address appears on your ballot.

What this office does

State legislator. State legislators write and vote on state laws and the state budget, which fund schools, roads, prisons, universities and health programs, and set the rules for local governments and elections. Each member represents one district and serves on committees that shape bills before a floor vote. Terms are two years in most state houses and four in most state senates.

This race. Elected by district: only voters who live in the district see this race on their ballot. The sitting officeholder, Thomas "T.J." Shope, is on the ballot.