Pandemic created ‘screwy year’ of campaigning, Rep. Schweikert says

PHOENIX – Setting aside intrinsic differences of opinion, politicians can probably agree on one thing: The coronavirus pandemic significantly altered campaigning.

“This whole year has changed how we all campaign,” U.S. Rep. David Schweikert of Arizona told KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Arizona’s Morning News on Wednesday.

The Republican is running for reelection in the 6th Congressional District against Dr. Hiral Tipirneni. The district includes Scottsdale, Fountain Hills and Paradise Valley. Schwekiert has represented the area since 2011.

With the general election fast approaching – Nov. 3 – virtual town halls, phone banks, texting and Zoom-style meet-ups replaced the traditional campaign events and door-knocking operations.

In years past, in-person methods have been seen as crucial to coax voters to the polls.

“We would campaign in people’s living room every week and you’d have little receptions with neighborhoods in backyards and living rooms and telling your story,” Schweikert said.

“You don’t get to really do that right now. So, it’s a different world. It’s just been a screwy year,” he said.

Phoenix-area voters have already mailed in more than 645,000 ballots as of Tuesday, according to the Maricopa County Elections Department.

Early voting began Oct. 7 in Arizona.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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