Candidate bio: Thomas "T.J." Shope

• Name: Thomas "T.J." Shope

• Party: Republican

• Age: 26

• Employer and position: Shope's IGA, manager

• Education: Coolidge High School, Central Arizona College A.A., Arizona State University, B.S. political science (2008)

• Political experience: vice president, Coolidge Unified School District Governing Board of Education (2009-present); 2nd vice chairman, Pinal County Republican Committee (2008-2010); president, Central Arizona College Republican Club (2003-2005)

• Top priority: providing an advantageous playing field for small business and other job creators to flourish in rural Arizona