Brandon Donnelly

Brandon Donnelly (Democratic Party) is running for election to the U.S. House to represent Arizona's 1st Congressional District. He declared candidacy for the Democratic primary scheduled on July 21, 2026.^[source]

Donnelly completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Brandon Donnelly was born in Cincinnati, Ohio. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2006 to 2011. Donnelly earned a high school diploma from Skyline High School and a bachelor's degree from the International Academy of Design and Technology in 2013. His career experience includes working as an information technology professional.^[1]

Elections

2026

General election

The primary will occur on July 21, 2026. The general election will occur on November 3, 2026. General election candidates will be added here following the primary.

General election for U.S. House Arizona District 1

Christopher Ajluni (Independent) is running in the general election for U.S. House Arizona District 1 on November 3, 2026.

		Candidate
		Christopher Ajluni (Independent)

	There are no incumbents in this race.
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Democratic primary

Democratic primary for U.S. House Arizona District 1

The following candidates are running in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Arizona District 1 on July 21, 2026.

		Candidate
		Andres Barraza
		Brian Del Vecchio
		Brandon Donnelly
		Marlene Galán-Woods
		Mark Robert Gordon
		Daniel Lucio
		Rick McCartney
	Submit photo	Angie Montoya
		David Redkey
		Amish Shah
		Jonathan Treble
		Victor Weintraub

	There are no incumbents in this race.
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Republican primary

Republican primary for U.S. House Arizona District 1

The following candidates are running in the Republican primary for U.S. House Arizona District 1 on July 21, 2026.

		Candidate
		Joseph Chaplik
		Jason Duey
		Jay Feely
		Derrick Gallego
		Kaitlin Purrington
		Paul Reevs
		Brandon Sowers
		John Trobough

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined.
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

David Schweikert (R)
Gina Swoboda (R)

Endorsements

Ballotpedia is gathering information about candidate endorsements. To send us an endorsement, click here.

2024

Arizona's 9th Congressional District election, 2024 (July 30 Republican primary)

Arizona's 9th Congressional District election, 2024 (July 30 Democratic primary)

General election

General election for U.S. House Arizona District 9

Incumbent Paul Gosar defeated Quacy Smith in the general election for U.S. House Arizona District 9 on November 5, 2024.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Paul Gosar (R)	65.3	249,583
	Quacy Smith (D)	34.7	132,640

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 382,223
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Arizona District 9

Quacy Smith advanced from the Democratic primary for U.S. House Arizona District 9 on July 30, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Quacy Smith	100.0	33,784

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 33,784
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Arizona District 9

Incumbent Paul Gosar advanced from the Republican primary for U.S. House Arizona District 9 on July 30, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Paul Gosar	100.0	89,308

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 89,308
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Donnelly in this election.

2020

General election

General election for Arizona State Senate District 23

Incumbent Michelle Ugenti-Rita defeated Seth Blattman and Kyle Kirsch in the general election for Arizona State Senate District 23 on November 3, 2020.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Michelle Ugenti-Rita (R)	59.1	89,677
		Seth Blattman (D)	40.9	62,115
	Submit photo	Kyle Kirsch (L) (Write-in)	0.0	13

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 151,805
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Arizona State Senate District 23

Seth Blattman defeated Brandon Donnelly in the Democratic primary for Arizona State Senate District 23 on August 4, 2020.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Seth Blattman	100.0	27,231
	Brandon Donnelly (Write-in)	0.0	3

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 27,234
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Republican primary election

Republican primary for Arizona State Senate District 23

Incumbent Michelle Ugenti-Rita defeated Alexander Kolodin in the Republican primary for Arizona State Senate District 23 on August 4, 2020.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Michelle Ugenti-Rita	60.4	24,945
	Alexander Kolodin	39.6	16,383

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 41,328
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Adam Kwasman (R)

Campaign themes

2026

Ballotpedia survey responses

Brandon Donnelly completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Donnelly's responses.

Expand all | Collapse all

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m Brandon Donnelly, a husband, neighbor, and proud Arizonan who believes government should work for the people, not against them. I’m not a career politician. I’m a Marine Corps veteran, a working professional, and a Director in the audio-visual and event production field, where I help produce events for local organizations, small businesses, and nonprofits every week. I’ve spent my life solving problems, managing teams, and bringing people together to get things done.

Outside of work, I stay active in the community through volunteer efforts that support veterans, families in need, and local outreach programs. I believe that leadership starts with listening, not lecturing, and that progress happens when people work together with honesty and compassion.

My campaign is focused on common-sense ideas that help everyday people by lowering costs, protecting our freedoms, supporting public schools, defending reproductive rights, and ensuring no one in our state is left behind. I also believe we need serious reform in campaign finance. Corporations and lobbyists should never have more influence than the people they claim to serve. Our government should reflect the will of voters, not the size of a donor’s check.

I’m running for Congress because I’m tired of politicians who point fingers, take special interest money, and ignore the struggles of working families. Arizona deserves leadership that listens, works hard, and puts people before politics. It’s time to rebuild trust by wo

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

People Before Politics Our government should work for the people, not for special interests. I believe in honest leadership that listens, respects working families, and makes decisions based on what’s right for our communities, not who writes the biggest checks. Corporate PACs and lobbyists have spoken louder than everyday citizens for too long. I want to return power to the people and make sure every Arizonan’s voice is heard in Washington.
Real Solutions for Everyday People Families in Arizona are tired of political games while costs keep rising and wages stay the same. I’m focused on practical solutions that actually help. Which includes: lowering costs, investing in public schools, protecting reproductive rights, and supporting small businesses that keep our communities strong. Government should make life easier, not harder, for the people who work every day to build a better future.
Accountability and Integrity in Leadership I’m running to restore trust in public service. That means transparency, accountability, and a commitment to serve everyone, not just those who agree with me politically. I believe in bringing people together, listening to all sides, and leading with integrity. Arizona deserves representatives who work hard, tell the truth, and remember they work for their neighbors, not the powerful few.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I’m passionate about policies that directly improve people’s lives. That means strengthening public education, protecting reproductive rights, expanding access to affordable healthcare, and lowering costs for working families. I’m also deeply committed to campaign finance reform because no lobbyist or corporation should ever have more influence than the people they represent. My goal is to bring honesty, fairness, and accountability back to government so it truly works for everyday Arizonans.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

The person I look up to most is my father. He has always been my example of what it means to work hard, stay humble, and do what is right even when no one is watching. He taught me that respect is earned through action, not words, and that you measure success by the people you help, not the things you own.

Watching him balance responsibility, family, and integrity shaped how I try to live my own life. He never sought recognition, but his quiet strength and steady values made a lasting impact on everyone around him. I carry those lessons with me every day, both in how I lead and how I serve.

My father’s example reminds me that leadership is about showing up, keeping your word, and standing by the people who depend on you. That is the kind of person I strive to be, and the kind of representative I hope to become.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

An elected official should lead with honesty, integrity, and empathy. Those qualities are not talking points. They are the foundation of real public service. An official’s job is to listen before speaking, to tell the truth even when it is uncomfortable, and to stand by the people who trusted them with their vote. Leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room. It is about having the courage to do what is right, even when it is not politically convenient.

I believe accountability is one of the most important traits any public servant can have. Too many politicians make promises they never intend to keep. I believe that when you tell the people of Arizona you are going to fight for them, you show up and do it. That means being transparent about how decisions are made, how money is spent, and who is influencing the process. Our representatives should be working for their communities, not the highest bidder.

Integrity also means refusing to take corporate PAC or lobbyist money that comes with strings attached. I believe every dollar in politics should come from people, not powerful interests trying to buy access. The voices of regular Arizonans should never be drowned out by special interest groups that do not represent our values.

An effective leader also needs empathy and the ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Whether it is a veteran returning home, a single parent trying to make ends meet, or a small business owner struggling to stay open, every person deserves to be heard. That is what true representation looks like.

Finally, an elected official should never forget that they are a public servant first. The title does not make the person important. The people make the position meaningful. My goal is to bring respect, transparency, and humanity back to leadership and to remind everyone that the job is not about power, it is about people.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibility of anyone elected to Congress is to represent the people who sent them there, not the donors, lobbyists, or party leaders who try to influence them. That means listening to constituents, being accessible, and acting as their voice in every decision. An elected official should never forget that their seat belongs to the people, not to them personally.

I believe the most important duty of a representative is to protect and improve the quality of life for the people they serve. That includes working to lower costs for families, improve access to healthcare, strengthen public schools, and create an economy that works for everyone, not just the wealthy few. It also means defending our fundamental freedoms, including the right to make personal healthcare decisions without government interference.

Another responsibility is to hold government accountable. Members of Congress must provide oversight of federal agencies, ensure that taxpayer money is spent wisely, and demand transparency in every corner of government. The public deserves to know where their money goes and how decisions are made.

Ethical leadership is also central to this role. I believe in refusing corporate PAC money, disclosing financial ties, and keeping the focus on the people who actually live and work in our communities. When big money controls politics, regular citizens lose their voice.

Finally, a member of Congress should lead with civility, empathy, and respect. Even when disagreements arise, there should always be a shared commitment to finding solutions that move our country forward. Politics should not be about fighting for power. It should be about working together to make life better for every American.

If elected, I intend to serve with transparency, honesty, and compassion, always remembering that I work for my neighbors, not for special interests or party bosses.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I want my legacy to be that I was a good man who showed up for people. Someone who worked hard, cared deeply, and tried to do right by others even when it was not easy. I want to be remembered as the kind of person who listened before speaking, helped when he could, and treated everyone with respect.

I have always believed that small actions matter just as much as big ones. Holding a door, helping a neighbor, standing up for someone who feels unseen. Those simple moments are what build real community. That is the kind of example I want to set for my family, my friends, and anyone who has ever believed that one person cannot make a difference.

This is also why I chose to run for office. I want to bring that same approach to public service by leading with compassion, listening to the people around me, and never losing sight of what really matters. Titles come and go, but character stays.

If, years from now, people remember me as someone who made life a little better, stood up for others, and lived with integrity, that will be enough for me.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The first major historical event I remember is September 11, 2001. I was fifteen years old. I can still remember exactly where I was and how it felt to watch it happen. It was the first time I truly understood how connected we all are and how quickly life can change. That day revealed both the pain of loss and the strength of unity that followed. It also shaped the person I would become. The sense of duty and service I felt after that moment led me to join the Marine Corps as an infantry Marine. That experience continues to guide how I view leadership, sacrifice, and what it means to serve others.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was at Pizza Hut right here in Arizona. I started working there as soon as I turned sixteen. It taught me a lot about responsibility, teamwork, and showing up for people who count on you. I learned early that no job is too small and that every role matters when you are part of a team trying to deliver for others. Those lessons have stuck with me throughout my life and continue to shape how I approach leadership and service today.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My favorite book is To Kill a Mockingbird. I first read it as a kid, but it has stayed with me ever since. It is a story about empathy, courage, and doing what is right even when it is not popular. Atticus Finch represents the kind of quiet strength and moral clarity that I have always admired.

The book reminds me that integrity is not about what you say when everyone is watching, but about what you do when no one is. It teaches the value of listening, of seeing the world through someone else’s eyes, and of standing up for justice even when it is uncomfortable.

Every time I have revisited that story, it has reminded me why compassion matters and how one person’s courage can change a community. Those are lessons I try to carry with me in my own life and in how I hope to serve others.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

One of my biggest struggles has been learning to ask for help. Like a lot of people, I grew up believing that strength meant handling everything on your own. Over time, I learned that real strength comes from being honest about what you need and allowing others to be there for you. That lesson changed how I lead, how I listen, and how I connect with people.

There have been times in my life when I tried to carry too much by myself, whether it was in the military, in work, or in personal challenges. What I discovered is that teamwork, honesty, and vulnerability build more resilience than pride ever could.

That experience shaped how I see public service. No one fixes problems alone. We have to listen, lean on one another, and find common ground to move forward. I want to bring that same humility and honesty to leadership, because I know firsthand how powerful it is when people lift each other up instead of trying to go it alone.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

The U.S. House of Representatives is unique because it is the chamber closest to the people. Members are elected every two years, which means they must stay connected to their communities and remain accountable to voters. The House was designed to reflect the will of the people in real time, not years later.

It is also the chamber where every state, large or small, has a voice in proportion to its population. That structure ensures that diverse perspectives from every corner of the country are represented. The House is where debates begin, where new ideas are tested, and where the needs of everyday Americans should take priority over party politics.

What makes the House truly special is its potential to serve as a direct line between citizens and their government. When it functions as intended, it gives working people a seat at the table and reminds those in power that leadership starts with listening.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

Experience in government can be helpful, but it should never be the only path to leadership. Understanding how the system works can make someone more effective, but if that experience comes at the cost of being disconnected from everyday life, it becomes a problem.

I believe it is just as important for representatives to have real-world experience outside of politics. People who have served in the military, worked in the private sector, built small businesses, taught in schools, or raised families bring a kind of perspective that career politicians often lose. Those experiences help shape policy that actually works in the real world instead of on paper.

The best leaders combine both qualities. They understand how to navigate government, but they also know what it feels like to live with the decisions being made in Washington. A good representative should be willing to learn, to listen, and to admit when something is not working.

Public service should be about solving problems, not maintaining power. Whether someone has a long political résumé or is stepping into public office for the first time, what matters most is honesty, empathy, and a commitment to serve their neighbors with integrity.

What do you perceive to be the United States’ greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

One of the greatest challenges facing our country over the next decade is rebuilding trust in government. Too many Americans feel that their voices no longer matter, that money and influence outweigh the needs of regular people. We must restore faith in democracy by reducing corporate influence, passing real campaign finance reform, and ensuring our representatives are accountable to the people who elect them.

Another major challenge is the growing cost of living. Wages have not kept pace with housing, healthcare, and education. Families are working harder than ever yet still falling behind. We need policies that support working people, protect unions, and create an economy that rewards hard work instead of speculation.

We are also facing an urgent need to address climate change and protect natural resources. Arizona and the Southwest are already seeing the effects through drought and extreme heat. Investing in clean energy and sustainable infrastructure will protect both our environment and our economy.

Finally, we must defend personal freedoms and ensure equal rights for all Americans. That means protecting reproductive rights, voting rights, and the basic dignity of every person.

Our nation’s challenges are serious, but none are impossible to overcome if we put people before politics and work together with honesty, compassion, and courage.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

I believe the two-year term made sense when our nation was founded, but it no longer serves the country as well as it could. Today, members of the House spend their first year working and their second year campaigning. That constant election cycle holds up the work of government and keeps representatives focused on politics instead of progress.

I believe moving to a four-year term would allow members to spend more time governing and less time fundraising. It would create stability, encourage long-term planning, and allow representatives to focus on solving problems instead of running for re-election every other year.

Accountability would still remain with the voters, but the time between elections would give members space to deliver real results. We can keep transparency and checks in place while also giving Congress the ability to do its job effectively.

In my view, extending the term to four years would make the House more productive, less influenced by campaign money, and better able to serve the people it represents.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I fully support term limits. Public service should never be a lifelong career or a path to personal power. When leaders stay in office for too long, they lose touch with the people they represent. Fresh voices and new perspectives keep government accountable and connected to real life. I signed the term limits pledge because I believe leadership should be temporary, accountable, and focused on service, not self-interest.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I have a great deal of respect for representatives who lead with honesty and transparency, even when it is not politically easy. People like John McCain, Katie Porter, and the late John Lewis set strong examples of what public service should look like. They each proved that integrity and truth matter more than party loyalty or political advantage.

As an Arizonan, John McCain stands out to me the most. He was never afraid to speak the truth, even when it went against his own party. He showed that leadership means putting people and country before politics. McCain’s willingness to admit when something was wrong, his openness with voters, and his direct, no-nonsense communication earned him respect from people across the political spectrum. That kind of independence and transparency is something I believe Arizona has always valued.

Katie Porter and John Lewis also represent the same spirit of service and accountability. Porter’s clear, fact-based approach to holding powerful institutions accountable and Lewis’s lifelong dedication to moral courage both remind us what leadership looks like when it is guided by principle instead of ambition.

If elected, I want to carry that same sense of honesty and integrity to Congress. Voters deserve representatives who tell the truth, explain their decisions, and never forget who they work for. Arizona has a proud tradition of independent thinkers, and I intend to honor that legacy through openness, accountability, and service to the people.

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

What has impacted me most has not been one single story, but the hundreds of small ones that paint a clear picture of life in Arizona. I’ve spoken with veterans who struggle to access the benefits they earned, teachers who buy their own classroom supplies because funding keeps getting cut, and working parents who work two jobs and still cannot afford basic necessities. Each story is a reminder that behind every statistic is a real person trying to make it.

One conversation that stayed with me was with a single mother who told me she feels invisible to the people making decisions about her life. She works full time, takes care of her kids, and still lives one car repair away from disaster. She said she does not need handouts, just a fair chance. That conversation reminded me why I am running. People are not asking for perfection from their leaders; they are asking to be seen, heard, and respected.

Everyday Arizonans deserve representatives who understand that their struggles are real and who will not forget them once the campaign ends. These stories are not just anecdotes to me. They are the reason I believe in public service and the motivation behind every policy I want to fight for.

If elected, I will always carry those voices with me to Washington. They deserve more than sympathy. They deserve action, compassion, and a government that works as hard for them as they work for their families.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Compromise can be an important part of governing, but it should never come at the expense of people’s rights, dignity, or safety. I believe in working with anyone, from any party, when it means solving real problems for everyday Americans. However, there are lines that should never be crossed. When minority communities, women, or marginalized groups are under attack, compromise is not leadership, it is surrender. Protecting fundamental rights is not negotiable.

Healthy compromise happens when both sides work toward solutions that make life better for everyone, not when one side demands that others give up their equality or freedoms. I believe in honest conversation, respect, and finding common ground on issues like infrastructure, healthcare, and the economy. That is how progress is made.

But on human rights, fairness, and equality, I will never trade away someone’s safety or freedom for political convenience. Our country works best when compassion and justice guide our decisions. True leadership means knowing when to reach across the aisle and when to stand firm for what is right.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

The power to originate all bills for raising revenue is one of the most important responsibilities of the House of Representatives. It gives the people, through their directly elected representatives, a voice in how public money is raised and spent. If elected, I would use that power to make sure our tax and budget policies put people first.

Too often, tax policy in Washington is written by and for corporate lobbyists. That has created a system where billion-dollar companies pay little to nothing while working families shoulder the burden. I believe revenue decisions should start with a simple question: does this help the people we serve, or does it help those who already have too much influence?

My priority would be to close loopholes that reward outsourcing and corporate greed, while providing real relief for families, small businesses, and seniors living on fixed incomes. Every dollar collected by the federal government should be spent transparently and with purpose, whether it is funding schools, improving infrastructure, supporting veterans, or protecting healthcare access.

The Constitution gives the House the responsibility to lead on these issues because it is closest to the people. I take that seriously. I will never vote for any bill that raises taxes on working families while cutting breaks for the powerful. My goal is to ensure that our tax system is fair, responsible, and built to strengthen communities, not enrich special interests.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

The investigative power of the U.S. House is one of its most important tools for accountability. It should be used to protect the public interest, ensure government transparency, and uncover corruption wherever it exists. That power was never meant to be used for political theater or personal attacks. It was designed to make sure that no one, including elected officials and large corporations, is above the law.

If elected, I would support investigations that focus on waste, fraud, abuse of power, and misuse of taxpayer money. Congress has a duty to ask hard questions and follow the facts, even when those answers are uncomfortable. Oversight should be fair, fact-based, and driven by a desire to fix problems, not score political points.

The House should also use its investigative authority to hold corporations accountable when they exploit workers, harm consumers, or pollute our environment. Government should defend the public, not the powerful.

True oversight is about trust. The American people deserve representatives who use these powers responsibly, with honesty and respect for the truth. My goal is to help restore faith in government by ensuring that investigations are focused on facts, guided by fairness, and always carried out in service to the people.

What role should the United States government have in the development or use of artificial intelligence?

Artificial intelligence has the potential to improve lives, create jobs, and strengthen our economy, but it also brings serious risks if left unregulated. The role of the federal government should be to guide its development responsibly, protect citizens’ privacy and data, and ensure that technology serves people rather than replaces or exploits them.

The government must set clear ethical and safety standards for how AI is built and used. That includes transparency in algorithms, limits on data collection, and strong oversight to prevent discrimination or bias. We cannot allow AI to be used to manipulate elections, invade personal privacy, or replace entire workforces without fair transitions and protections for workers.

I believe the government should partner with innovators, universities, and ethical technology leaders to ensure that progress benefits everyone, not just large corporations. We should also invest in education and workforce training to prepare Americans for the jobs of the future.

AI should be used to make our country safer, smarter, and more efficient, but it must always operate under clear rules that reflect human values. The goal should not be to slow down progress, but to make sure progress happens responsibly, with fairness and accountability at every step. Technology should serve humanity, not control it.

What legislation would you enact related to election administration in the United States?

Over the last decade, our elections have been hijacked by political theater and misinformation. Instead of working together to make voting easier and more secure, both parties have spent too much time fighting over rules that should be based on facts, not fear. The result is that many Americans have lost trust in the process itself. That is unacceptable.

If elected, I would support legislation that strengthens election security, expands voter access, and takes politics out of election administration. We need nationwide standards that protect every voter’s right to cast a ballot without intimidation or unnecessary barriers. That means modernizing voter registration, improving ballot tracking, and ensuring that every eligible vote is counted accurately and transparently.

I would also support laws that protect election workers from harassment and hold accountable anyone who spreads deliberate misinformation about voting. We should increase funding for nonpartisan election oversight and require full transparency in campaign funding so voters know exactly who is trying to influence them.

Elections are the foundation of our democracy, not a stage for political games. My goal is to make sure every citizen can trust that their voice counts, their vote is secure, and their government belongs to them, not to the highest bidder or loudest politician. It is time to end the partisan chaos and rebuild faith in the system that represents us all.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Note: Donnelly submitted the above survey responses to Ballotpedia on November 12, 2025.

October 27 submission

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a dedicated Democrat running for office with a deep commitment to our community and the diverse individuals who call it home. My journey has been shaped by my experiences, which inspire my passion for justice and equality. I believe in protecting and uplifting all voices, especially those that have historically been marginalized. I am particularly focused on safeguarding the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community, senior citizens, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and our vibrant Indigenous population here in Arizona. I also firmly stand for women’s right to choose, as I believe every person should have autonomy over their own bodies and lives. My dedication to these causes motivates my campaign, and I am eager to work towards a future where everyone feels safe, heard, and valued.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Protecting Our Diverse Community: I am committed to standing up for the rights and dignity of every person in our community. This includes advocating for the LGBTQIA+ population, ensuring the voices of marginalized groups are heard, and promoting equality for all.
Empowering Vulnerable Populations: I will prioritize support for our senior citizens, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. It is essential that we provide the necessary resources and protections to enhance their quality of life and ensure they feel valued.
Championing Women’s Rights: I fully support and defend a woman's right to choose. This is a fundamental aspect of personal freedom, and I will work tirelessly to protect reproductive rights and ensure that every individual can make decisions about their own health care.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am deeply passionate about upholding the Constitution and ensuring that every individual has the right to express their voice freely and without fear of governmental oppression. This commitment extends beyond mere words; it reflects my belief that democracy thrives when all citizens can participate meaningfully in the political process. Additionally, I am dedicated to addressing public policies that promote social equity and justice. This includes championing initiatives that dismantle systemic barriers for marginalized communities and advocating for policies that foster growth. It is vital that we create a society where everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to our collective future.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I will always look up to my father. He doesn’t have the accolades and head start a lot of people get, but was an amazing father and mentor to myself and my 3 siblings.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

An elected official should demonstrate integrity and honesty, act with transparency about decisions and spending, and be accountable to the people they represent. Competence and a commitment to learning ensure they can make informed policy choices, while humility and responsiveness ensure they listen to and prioritize constituent needs above personal or partisan gain.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibilities are to faithfully represent the needs and priorities of constituents; propose, evaluate, and vote for policies that advance the public good; steward public funds with prudence and transparency; provide timely constituent services (helping residents with government programs and problems); provide oversight of agencies and programs when applicable; and work across differences to build consensus and implement effective solutions. Clear communication and regular community engagement are essential to fulfilling these duties.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I want to leave a legacy of helping those that needed it most. That I was a megaphone for those whose voices are held down.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

I still remember 9/11. I was 15.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was in Mesa, AZ as the Easter bunny at superstition springs mall. Worked when I was 15. Worked until I turned 16 and was able to get a “real” job.

What is your favorite book? Why?

To Kill a Mockingbird is my favorite book because it taught me the value of empathy, the duty to defend the vulnerable, and the belief that ordinary people can make justice real.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Marty McFly. He’s confident without being arrogant, loves music, and knows how to think on his feet. I like that balance of being outgoing and dependable; I try to bring the same energy to my everyday life.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Until the last few years, it was really getting everything together. There was always a speed bump.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

The House is unique because it is the most directly accountable federal body to local communities. Members live in and represent specific districts, which makes responsiveness and constituent service central to the job. The committee system allows detailed policy work and oversight, and the House’s role in budgeting and appropriations gives it essential influence over national priorities. Those features make the House both a voice for local needs and a check that holds the federal government accountable.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

Experience in government can be useful, but it is no substitute for lived experience and real ties to a place. I was raised here, I have worked here, and this is my home. I know our schools, our businesses, and the everyday challenges our neighbors face because I live them with you. Too many people running for Congress did not grow up here and moved in after building careers elsewhere, and that distance changes priorities and perspective. The House is supposed to be the people’s house. I will be the kind of representative who listens first, makes decisions grounded in our community’s needs, and brings federal resources back to our district. I am one of you, and I will use this office to deliver real results for our families and neighborhoods.

What do you perceive to be the United States’ greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

Over the next ten years our country will face a set of connected challenges that require practical, compassionate federal leadership. Climate change is an urgent threat, and I will fight to move us to clean energy, build resilient infrastructure, and create good-paying green jobs, prioritizing communities that have been hardest hit. Economic inequality and corporate concentration are shrinking opportunity for working families, so I will support higher wages, stronger unions, progressive taxation, affordable housing, and better access to childcare and debt relief. Healthcare and reproductive freedom must be protected, and I will push to lower drug prices, strengthen the Affordable Care Act, and expand affordable coverage so no one loses care. We also need common-sense gun safety, real immigration reform that treats people with dignity, criminal justice changes to reduce mass incarceration, and stronger protections for voting rights and our democracy. As your representative I will listen to our district, use legislation, the budget, and oversight to get results, and bring federal resources home to help our communities thrive.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

I firmly believe in term limits, but also believe 2 years should be extended to 4 years. The majority of representatives work for the 1st year, then spend the 2nd complaining for reelection. It slows down our government.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I support term limits to prevent career politicians and encourage fresh perspectives in government.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Mark Kelly has been a model senator for the state of Arizona. He makes us all proud.

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

I’ve been told, by many, that they feel like the corporate needs are always ahead of theirs. They grew up in this community, they work here, and are forced to pick between 2 corporately backed “candidates” A lot of people want to see a change in government. They want real people, who have dealt with real things, to represent them.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

I believe compromise is often necessary to pass lasting legislation, and I will work across the aisle when doing so delivers concrete benefits for our community. At the same time I will not accept deals that sacrifice fundamental rights, public health, or basic fairness. My approach is to hold firm on core principles while looking for practical, bipartisan solutions that improve people’s lives.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

That voters tax dollars are used smartly, and correctly. That children don’t go hungry. And, most importantly, that people don’t die because they can’t afford healthcare.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

I think anybody, at any level of government, shouldn’t be above the law. We need to start holding everybody accountable for any despicable actions.

What is an accomplishment that you are proud of?

My son. Raising him will always be my biggest accomplishment.

What role should the United States government have in the development or use of artificial intelligence?

I think AI should be monitored. It can now make videos, pictures, and audio. This needs to be closely monitored.

What legislation would you enact related to election administration in the United States?

I think our elections are the safest they’ve ever been. There is no verifiable evidence that it isn’t. I think the only legislation that would be needed is outside groups using social media and the internet to influence voting in the United States.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Note: Donnelly submitted the above survey responses to Ballotpedia on October 27, 2025.

2024

Brandon Donnelly completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Donnelly's responses.

Expand all | Collapse all

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a veteran of the United States marine corps. I believe that America is off track with some of the people we have elected to lead us. It’s time for a change. It’s time for myself, and other younger people, to lead this country into a new era.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

LGBTQIA+ matters
We need nationwide healthcare
The education system needs retooled.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I’m very passionate about LGBTQIA rights. I’m also very driven for women to have bodily autonomy. I also believe that every citizen has the right to a job that supports a standard of living, access to healthcare, and access to higher education. Money should never be a reason you can’t succeed in a first world country.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I will always look up to my father. He has shown me that you can do anything you set your mind to.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity. You can’t have trust if the people without integrity. Do what you say. Say what you do. Period.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I care. I truly care about people and what they go thru.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

To speak for the people. You are elected to specifically be the voice for the people.

What legacy would you like to leave?

That people are happier and more trusting of their government officials.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

I remember 9/11. I was just 15. I remember my father waking me up to go look ah the news. I remember going to school that day and every TV covering the horrific event.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was at a Pizza Hut in Mesa, AZ. I started working within a week after my 16th birthday in June 2002. I worked there until I moved to Las Vegas, NV in 2003.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

The House of Representatives is the voice of the people. It’s where the economy is built and preserved. It is where most parts of the government party come from.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

I do not. I believe that love for your country and wanting it to be better is reason enough to become a politician.

What do you perceive to be the United States’ greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

Our greatest challenge is the division in this country.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

I believe it should be extended to 4. It’s very hard to get anything done when representatives can be flipped every 2 years.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I believe that term limits are necessary for the same office. I don’t believe someone should be pushed out of politics if they are climbing the political ladder.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I don’t have anybody specific. There are a lot of different representatives that I want to take parts of and mold myself to be better.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Compromise is the only way we get back on track. If we continue to have politicians only pushing their personal agenda, we will never get anything done.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

Being a politician is never, and will never, be about power for me. I’m here for the people of Arizona and the citizens of the USA.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

The easy answer here is “for good” If it serves the nation, so be it.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

2020

Brandon Donnelly did not complete Ballotpedia's 2020 Candidate Connection survey.

Campaign finance summary

Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.

Brandon Donnelly campaign contribution history
Year	Office	Status	Contributions	Expenditures
2026*	U.S. House Arizona District 1	Candidacy Declared primary	$0	N/A**
Grand total			$0	N/A**
Sources: OpenSecrets, Federal Election Commission *This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete
** Data on expenditures is not available for this election cycle
Note: Totals above reflect only available data.

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Candidate

U.S. House Arizona District 1

Website

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Footnotes

↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on October 27, 2025

[show]

Arizona's current delegation to the United States Congress

Senators

Ruben Gallego (D)

Mark Kelly (D)

Representatives

District 1

David Schweikert (R)

District 2

Eli Crane (R)

District 3

Yassamin Ansari (D)

District 4

Greg Stanton (D)

District 5

Andy Biggs (R)

District 6

Juan Ciscomani (R)

District 7

Adelita Grijalva (D)

District 8

Abraham Hamadeh (R)

District 9

Paul Gosar (R)

Republican Party (6)

Democratic Party (5)

[1] Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on October 27, 2025

[1]

	v • e State of Arizona Phoenix (capital)
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Brandon Donnelly

Biography

Elections

2026

General election

General election for U.S. House Arizona District 1

Democratic primary

Democratic primary for U.S. House Arizona District 1

Republican primary

Republican primary for U.S. House Arizona District 1

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Endorsements

2024

General election

General election for U.S. House Arizona District 9

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Arizona District 9

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Arizona District 9

Endorsements

2020

General election

General election for Arizona State Senate District 23

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Arizona State Senate District 23

Republican primary election

Republican primary for Arizona State Senate District 23

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Campaign themes

2026

Ballotpedia survey responses

2024

2020

Campaign finance summary

See also

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Footnotes

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