Local opinion: Daniel Hernandez right choice for CD7

As a proud Latina, an enrolled Pascua Yaqui tribal member, and the former Chair of both the Indigenous Caucus and Latino Caucus in the Arizona State Legislature, I’ve devoted my career to amplifying the voices of communities too often overlooked. Today, I write from the heart to share why Latino and Native American voters in Arizona’s 7th Congressional District must rally behind one candidate in the upcoming special election — and that’s my longtime friend and community champion, Daniel Hernandez. He is an advocate who shows up.

Daniel and I go back to 2010. I watched him navigate complicated bureaucracies, tirelessly advocate for families in our districts, and consistently show up when it counted most. From corner fixes to housing crises, Daniel has never shied away from the grunt work — because he understands that effective leadership isn’t about optics, it’s about results.

When the low-income housing tax credit was quietly passed at the federal level, Daniel saw it not just as another legislative checkbox — but as a genuine opportunity for change. He fought to bring that resource home. Now, homes are rising on the Pascua Yaqui Reservation, for families who deserve nothing less. That’s the power of representation that delivers.

Lowering Costs & Respecting Tribal Sovereignty

Latino and Native American households in Arizona grapple daily with rising costs — everything from groceries and medicine to car expenses. Daniel understands that driving real relief for families means pushing for smart policies — like expanding affordable housing incentives — so folks can stay rooted in the communities they call home. At the same time, as a tribal member myself, I’ve witnessed too often how elected officials talk about “sovereignty” in headlines but not in action. Daniel is different. He’s a genuine ally of tribal nations, committed to ensuring that sovereignty isn’t a buzzword — it’s a federal policy priority. He listens to tribal leaders, respects treaty rights, and will fight to protect them in Congress.

Protecting Our Seniors & Preserving Social Safety Nets

We cannot afford leaders who treat Medicare or Social Security like political bargaining chips. Seniors—whether on tribal lands or in urban neighborhoods — are counting on these lifelines. Daniel knows that safeguarding retirement benefits isn’t just good policy — it’s a moral imperative. He has publicly stated that he will not support any cuts to Medicare or Social Security. Period.

Why This Special Election Matters

This July 15th special election isn’t a routine contest — it’s a defining moment. Will voters choose someone who shows up only when running — or someone who shows up to serve, day in and day out? Latino and Native American communities can’t afford the uncertainty of absentee representation at a time when the cost of living remains volatile, federal tribal relations are on shaky ground, and millions of seniors depend on Medicare and Social Security.

That’s why I urge every voter to stand with Daniel Hernandez. Vote Daniel Hernández: For the Homes We Build. The Tribes We Respect. The People We Protect.

Daniel has done the legwork: he’s shown up in 2010, in 2015, in 2020, and now in 2025. He’s knocked doors, met with elders, and has been instrumental in delivering housing through the low-income housing tax credit — benefiting Pascua Yaqui families right now. He’s earned our trust, and more importantly, he’s earned our vote.

Join me, Senator and tribal advocate Sally Ann Gonzales: Stand with Daniel Hernandez on July 15th. Let’s elect a true fighter for Latino and Native American voices, a steadfast defender of our dignity, and a tireless champion for our communities.

Together, we can send someone to Congress who shows up — and delivers.