Arizona State Senate District 16

Current seat holder: Thomas "T.J." Shope.

Thomas "T.j." Shope

T.J. Shope was born in Florence, Arizona, and lives in Coolidge, Arizona.

· Official legislative page · Ballotpedia

Campaign site

Economy & Taxes: “As your State Senator, I am working to support Arizona businesses, keep our neighborhoods safe, lower costs, and protect our shared priorities.” (AZ Clean Elections 2026 Voter Education Guide)
Economy & Taxes: “From protecting our water and balancing the state budget, to investing in I-10 widening and State Route 347 improvements, I will keep fighting for commonsense reforms at the State Capitol.” (AZ Clean Elections 2026 Voter Education Guide)
Economy & Taxes: “For the last two sessions, I have championed legislation to increase transparency and accountability to ensure our tax dollars are spent wisely and elected officials are held accountable.” (AZ Clean Elections 2026 Voter Education Guide)

Elaine Aldrete

Elaine Aldrete earned a graduate degree from the University of Phoenix in 1997. Her career experience includes working as a nonprofit founder.

· Ballotpedia

Campaign site

Campaign priorities: “As the federal government chips away at benefits for veterans and working families, the state will have to step up and fill the gaps. I am committed to working across the aisle to ensure all Arizonans can access affordable, quality healthcare.” (Campaign website (accessed Oct 23, 2026))
Jobs, wages & cost of living: “Our communities and the farmers who feed them deserve water and electricity at affordable prices. I will fight for legislation to develop practical solutions that balance the needs of citizens and farmers with economic growth that increases our state revenue.” (Campaign website (accessed Oct 23, 2026))
Campaign priorities: “Healthcare: As the federal government cuts benefits for veterans and working families, the state must fill in the gaps. I am committed to working across the aisle to ensure all Arizonans can access affordable, quality healthcare. • Housing/Utilities: We need meaningful reforms to ensure that our seniors on fixed incomes can age in place and that families, rather than investors, can buy homes. Our communities and the farmers who feed them deserve affordable water and electricity.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey (2026))