Yuma’s Dunn takes off running as Ariz. House member
Says his goal is to be a voice for communities
An hour after being sworn in early afternoon Tuesday, Yuma farmer Tim Dunn was already voting on the floor of the Arizona House of Representatives. He replaces Don Shooter, who was expelled earlier this month, as representative of Legislative District 13.
“The swearing in went very well. We’re very excited to be here,” Dunn told the Yuma Sun during a Tuesday phone interview. “We’ve been welcomed with open arms. The leadership has been great.”
His first day as the newest member of the Arizona Legislature was a whirlwind of activity and he fully expects it to continue that way as he learns his way.
“It’s very overwhelming walking in right in the middle of it. There’s lots of bills on the floor. It’s like drinking from a fire hose,” Dunn said.
Dunn is learning the process with help from assistants provided by the House. Although he has experience working with legislative issues on the state and federal issues, his perspective now needs to change from that of an outsider to insider.
“There’s a learning curve,” he noted.
Dunn’s immediate focus is learning about the bills coming up for vote this week. Next week, after he’s a little more settled in, he hopes to expand that focus.
In the long run, his goal is to “be a voice,” not only for the rural agriculture community but the business and military communities. But he also wants to direct his attention to the needs of the cities in the metro-rural interface, such as Buckeye and Surprise, some of the fastest growing communities in the state.
“And Yuma County has to be involved in that,” he noted.
Legislative District 13 is extensive, spanning from western Maricopa County to Yuma, with each community having their own issues. But, he said, he intends to address all the concerns in the district, such as water issues.
He also wants to promote stability and growth in the district and support businesses by “streamlining” the process and building a
“good pathway for business to grow.”
Dunn was one of three candidates who stepped forward and offered to fill the vacant seat. Dunn explained why he offered himself.
“I bring a lot to the table. I understand not only agriculture and business but how to get things done,” he said.
“When you abruptly have an opening, it takes someone who can carry a voice, a strong voice, in the Legislature. These are big shoes to fill legislatively. We need a strong representative with experience in business, agriculture and many interests around the state. I understand rural issues and growth,” Dunn added.
House staff members have been helping him set up his office and catch up on the business at hand.
He met with Speaker of the House JD Mesnard Monday afternoon. On Tuesday, he took his oath of office and he was voting by 2 p.m.
“Talk about taking off running,” he quipped.
Asked if he wanted to share a message with his constituents, he said, “We’re just thankful for their trust in me. We are going to work.”
He hopes to have their support when he runs for election to keep his seat later this year.