Early voting starts this Wednesday, and with election season in full swing, Tucson voters have a new way to connect directly with City Council candidates before heading to the polls.

Tucson Spotlight and Arizona Luminaria are co-hosting a City Council Candidate Meet-and-Greet on Tuesday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona campus (5049 E. Broadway Blvd.)

Sponsored by the Local News Initiative of Southern Arizona, the event is designed to offer a more accessible and informal space for voters to connect directly with the candidates seeking to represent them.

Candidates who have confirmed their attendance include Ward 3's Kevin Dahl, Sadie Shaw and Janet "JL" Wittenbraker; Ward 5's Selina Barajas and Chris Elsner; and Ward 6's Leighton Rockafellow Jr., Miranda Schubert, Jay Tolkoff and Jim Sinex

After brief introductions, candidates will move to ward-specific rooms, where they can mix and mingle with attendees from their districts.

The goal is to facilitate real conversations, candid answers and a deeper understanding of where each candidate stands on local issues like housing, immigration, substance use and extreme heat.

“In today’s polarized political climate, it’s more important than ever to create meaningful spaces for civic engagement,” organizers said. “This event is a reminder that local government is deeply personal—and our elected officials should be, too.”

Find your ward, register to attend and learn more here. Space is limited.

Tucson Spotlight is a community-based newsroom that provides paid opportunities for students and rising journalists in Southern Arizona. Please consider supporting our work with a tax-deductible donation.