Robert Branch

Robert Branch (Republican Party) ran for election to the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors to represent District 4 in Arizona. He lost in the Republican primary on July 30, 2024.

Branch completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Robert Branch was born in New Kensington, Pennsylvania. Branch's career experience includes working as a professor, businessman, and park commissioner. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1979 to 1983. Branch earned a bachelor's degree from Eastern Washington University in 1985, a graduate degree from Western International University in 2001, and a Ph.D. from Capella University in 2007.^[1]

Elections

2024

General election

General election for Maricopa County Board of Supervisors District 4

Debbie Lesko defeated David Sandoval in the general election for Maricopa County Board of Supervisors District 4 on November 5, 2024.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Debbie Lesko (R)	59.9	248,812
	David Sandoval (D)	40.0	166,144
	Other/Write-in votes	0.1	595

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 415,551
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Maricopa County Board of Supervisors District 4

David Sandoval advanced from the Democratic primary for Maricopa County Board of Supervisors District 4 on July 30, 2024.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	David Sandoval	99.6	53,775
	Other/Write-in votes	0.4	231

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 54,006
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Republican primary election

Republican primary for Maricopa County Board of Supervisors District 4

Debbie Lesko defeated Robert Branch in the Republican primary for Maricopa County Board of Supervisors District 4 on July 30, 2024.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Debbie Lesko	71.9	81,555
	Robert Branch	27.8	31,522
	Other/Write-in votes	0.3	301

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 113,378
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Branch in this election.

2018

See also: Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction election, 2018

General election

General election for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction

Kathy Hoffman defeated Frank Riggs in the general election for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction on November 6, 2018.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Kathy Hoffman (D)	51.6	1,185,457
	Frank Riggs (R)	48.4	1,113,781

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 2,299,238 (100.00% precincts reporting)
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction

Kathy Hoffman defeated David Schapira in the Democratic primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction on August 28, 2018.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Kathy Hoffman	52.3	254,566
	David Schapira	47.7	232,419

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 486,985 (100.00% precincts reporting)
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Republican primary election

Republican primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction

Frank Riggs defeated Robert Branch, incumbent Diane Douglas, Tracy Livingston, and Jonathan Gelbart in the Republican primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction on August 28, 2018.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Frank Riggs	21.8	124,872
		Robert Branch	21.8	124,623
		Diane Douglas	21.2	121,452
	Submit photo	Tracy Livingston	20.2	115,778
	Submit photo	Jonathan Gelbart	14.9	85,511

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 572,236 (100.00% precincts reporting)
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

Robert Branch completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Branch's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Dr. Bob Branch is a true leader, not a legislator.

Dr. Bob Branch is the Commissioner Emeritus of the Maricopa County Regional Park system and is now in his 7th term serving the people of Supervisorial District 4. His extensive experience makes him the most qualified candidate in this race. Under Dr. Branch’s leadership, Maricopa County Parks have become the #1 regional park system in the nation. During the COVID lockdown, Dr. Branch prioritized our community’s well-being by keeping Parks open. This decision was essential for preserving our mental health and quality of life. As he often says, "Healthy people belong outdoors, hiking in our parks," and Branch firmly believes this choice saved lives. Dr. Branch’s commitment to unity and patriotism is clear. In 2017, Branch fought for and won the inclusion of the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation in all park commission meetings. For his outstanding service, he earned the esteemed title of “Commissioner Emeritus.” A proud Veteran, successful Businessman, and dedicated Christian Conservative College Professor, Dr. Branch has taught leadership, technology, and business at the doctorate level.

Dr. Bob Branch is the Right Leader, Right Now, for County Supervisor!

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?

Dr. Bob Branch will restore election integrity. Maricopa County is the epicenter of election integrity issues, and Dr. Branch is the leader that can fix the issues that currently exist. He will work with the new County Recorder to assure that all legal, and only legal votes, will be counted.
Dr. Bob Branch will restore the integrity of the office of Supervisor. For four years, trust between the people and the supervisors has eroded, and now the people are no longer welcome at board meetings. "We, the people," are the government, and Dr. Branch will rebuild the trust between the community and the Board of Supervisors. Dr. Branch is the Right Leader, Right Now, for County Supervisor.
Public safety is paramount to Dr. Bob Branch. He will ensure that the new Sheriff and County Attorney have the resources they need to keep the public safe. Dr. Branch will advocate for the new Sheriff to bring back the posse and for the new County Attorney to hold criminals accountable.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Dr. Bob Branch prioritizes public safety by ensuring law enforcement and the justice system have the resources they need. He advocates for the return of the posse and holds criminals accountable. Committed to restoring election integrity, Dr. Branch emphasizes strengthening security, transparent processes, and voter education. As a veteran, he supports policies benefiting veterans and fosters patriotism. Dr. Branch champions economic growth, collaboration, and opposes 15-minute cities. He protects private property rights and promotes government accountability and efficiency. Dr. Branch advocated for more school choice, parents' rights, and partnerships with homeschool families.

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

I look up to the Lord Jesus Christ as the ultimate example of servant leadership. His selfless devotion to serving others, humility, and unwavering commitment to compassion and justice inspire me deeply. I strive to follow His example in how I lead and serve, seeking to emulate His principles of caring for others and making a positive impact in my community and beyond.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Hands down, Homer's "Odyssey." This book/poem shows how a person can overcome any obstacle. I lived with my mother in a rented trailer in Western Pennsylvania. She got sick my senior year of high school and died shortly after I graduated. I have been on my own ever since. There were many times I could have been a victim, but I refused to fail. Even when I did fail, I learned how to win. Since then, I played college football, served honorably in the United States Air Force, married my lovely wife of 43 years, earned four college degrees, and led an honorable life. I have been giving back to my community by teaching faith-based classes and serving as the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation for seven terms. "The Odyssey" is the greatest business book in the world. I know because I have taught leadership, business, and technology at the doctorate level for two decades.

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

Integrity, leadership, experience, and business acumen. Dr. Bob Branch is a businessman, veteran, and Christian Conservative college professor. He has been teaching leadership, business, and technology at the doctorate level for over 20 years. Dr. Branch is the only candidate in this race with any county government experience, serving the people of District 4 for seven terms as their Commissioner of Parks and Recreation. Dr. Branch helped make County Parks the #1 regional park system in the United States. He also kept the parks open during COVID.

Regarding integrity, it is paramount in any public service role. Dr. Branch is the only candidate in this Republican Primary who has maintained a clean legal and financial record. According to reports from the Arizona Republic newspaper and the Associated Press (AP), he is the only candidate who has never been arrested, let alone arrested for tampering with evidence by forging documents. This is important since many voters believe there was election fraud in Maricopa County and that evidence was tampered with. Dr. Branch has never had to file for bankruptcy, let alone three times in two different states. He has never been in trouble with the law for passing bad checks, and he has never had to shelter his identity by using a string of aliases. This is important to voters since the Board of Supervisors manages a budget of nearly $4 billion, and voters want to know where and how their money is being spent.

Reference: https://www.azcentral.com/in-depth/news/politics/arizona/2022/06/08/arizona-us-rep-debbie-lesko-rebuilt-life-after-chaotic-1st-marriage-claims-fraud/9642509002/

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

These qualities set me apart form my opponent, and would contribute to my success as an a Supervisor:

1. Leadership: With extensive experience as Commissioner of Parks and Recreation and teaching leadership at the doctorate level, I bring proven leadership skills to the role.
2. Integrity: I have maintained a clean legal and financial record, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and ethical conduct in public service.
3. Experience: Serving seven terms as Commissioner of Parks and Recreation has equipped me with valuable insights into county government operations and community needs.
4. Vision: I have a clear vision for advancing issues like public safety, economic development, and veterans' affairs, ensuring a prosperous and secure future for our community.
5. Community Engagement: I am dedicated to engaging with and listening to constituents, advocating for their interests, and fostering unity and pride in our community.
6. Education and Expertise: My background in teaching leadership, business, and technology enables me to approach governance with a strong foundation of knowledge and innovation.

7. Commitment to Service: From military service to community teaching and leadership, I am deeply committed to serving others and making a positive impact in every role I undertake.

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

Public Safety: A County Supervisor must prioritize the safety and security of the community. This involves ensuring law enforcement and the justice system have the necessary resources, advocating for effective policing measures, and holding criminals accountable.

Economic Development: Supporting the growth and prosperity of the county through collaboration with stakeholders is essential.
Veterans' Issues: As the only veteran in this race, Dr. Branch emphasizes the importance of supporting policies and initiatives that benefit veterans.
Private Property Rights: Protecting private property rights is a critical responsibility. This includes addressing issues related to eminent domain and real estate, and upholding individual rights.
Government Accountability: Advocating for a smaller, more efficient government.
Community Well-being: Promoting initiatives that support the mental and physical health of the community is vital. No jabs, no mask mandates. Dr. Branch fought to keep parks open during COVID.
Education: Promoting conservative values in education is a key responsibility. This includes defending parents' rights, eliminating anti-American curriculum, fostering partnerships with homeschool families, and school choice.

Overall, a County Supervisor must be dedicated to serving the community with integrity, leadership, and a commitment to improving the quality of life for all residents.

What legacy would you like to leave?

Dr. Bob Branch envisions leaving a legacy defined by restored integrity and revitalized public trust in the Supervisor's office. By championing robust measures to restore election integrity, ensuring transparent processes, and fostering bipartisan oversight, he aims to fortify confidence in the electoral system. Through unwavering commitment to accountability and ethical governance, Dr. Branch seeks to empower constituents with the assurance that their voices are heard and their votes count. His legacy also includes advancing policies that promote economic growth, enhance public safety, and uphold the rights of veterans and property owners. Ultimately, Dr. Branch strives to be remembered as a leader who transformed challenges into opportunities, leaving a community united, prosperous, and proud.

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

One of my earliest global events that I remember is President John F. Kennedy being assassinated when I was 5 years old.

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

I didn't live with my Dad, but I worked for him from the age of 11 to 19. He owned a heating and air conditioning company, as well as apartment buildings. I did everything from installing AC units and painting to remodeling buildings and hot-tarring roofs. Living with my mom, and being in a financially tight situation, the money I earned went towards essentials like clothes, food, car insurance, gas, and other necessities like my class ring. This experience taught me the value of hard work, earning money, and the importance of financial responsibility.

What is your favorite book? Why?

I teach faith-based subjects, so it's no surprise that the Bible holds a significant place in my life and teachings.

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

If I could be any fictional character, I would still choose to be myself. I'm content with who I am.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

I play guitar every day, focusing on country and rock music. Without fail, I pick up my guitar daily and immerse myself in music. Earlier today, I came across a story about Don Henley and "Hotel California," which inspired me to grab my acoustic guitar and play along. Music is a constant source of joy and creativity in my daily routine.

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

One significant struggle in my life has been dealing with individuals whom I perceive as lacking in competence or sincerity. I do not suffer fools, which sometimes hinders my ability to fully embrace the role of a servant leader. While my commitment to integrity and high standards remains unwavering, finding a balance between firm leadership and empathetic service continues to be a personal and professional challenge that I actively work on overcoming.

Tell us your favorite joke.

It's too salty to post here.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

I am truly honored to have received endorsements from the entire body of Arizona Legislative Districts 2, 3, and 25, along with the support of Sheriff Joe Arpaio, Congressman Trent Franks, Abe Hamadeh, Arizona Latinos United for Conservative Action (LUCA), and Tyler Boyer. These endorsements affirm the strong support for my candidacy and underscore our shared commitment to conservative values and effective leadership.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Dr. Bob Branch advocates strongly for financial transparency and government accountability in public service. He believes in the fundamental right of taxpayers to understand how their money is utilized, supporting clear and accessible budgeting processes and comprehensive financial reporting. Dr. Branch emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct among government officials, advocating for robust oversight mechanisms such as audits and reviews. He promotes a smaller, more efficient government that operates with integrity, ensuring that elected officials remain responsive to the community's needs and concerns.

Regarding transparency, Dr. Branch is the only candidate in this Republican Primary who has maintained a clean legal and financial record. According to reports from the Arizona Republic newspaper and the Associated Press (AP), he is the only candidate who has never been arrested, let alone arrested for tampering with evidence by forging documents. This is important since many voters believe there was election fraud in Maricopa County and that evidence was tampered with. Dr. Branch has never had to file for bankruptcy, let alone three times in two different states. He has never been in trouble with the law for passing bad checks, and he has never had to shelter his identity by using a string of aliases. This is important to voters since the Board of Supervisors manages a budget of nearly $4 billion, and voters want to know where and how their money is being spent.

Reference: https://www.azcentral.com/in-depth/news/politics/arizona/2022/06/08/arizona-us-rep-debbie-lesko-rebuilt-life-after-chaotic-1st-marriage-claims-fraud/9642509002/

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.

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Candidate

Maricopa County Board of Supervisors District 4

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Footnotes

↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on July 2, 2024

[1] Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on July 2, 2024

[1]

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Robert Branch

Contents

Biography

Elections

2024

General election

General election for Maricopa County Board of Supervisors District 4

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Maricopa County Board of Supervisors District 4

Republican primary election

Republican primary for Maricopa County Board of Supervisors District 4

Endorsements

2018

General election

General election for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction

Republican primary election

Republican primary for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also

External links

Footnotes

Information about voting

2025 Elections

2026 Elections

2024 Election analysis

Trending

Public Policy

Information for candidates

Get Engaged

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