Latter-day Saints women turn away from scandal-plagued Republican candidate in Arizona

Mark Lamb, the Republican nominee for Arizona's 5th Congressional District, is struggling to win over some Latter-day Saints voters in a safely conservative seat, according to NPR. Lamb, a former Pinal County sheriff endorsed by President Trump, is favored to beat Democrat Elizabeth Lee, a nurse and political newcomer, but weak appeal among Mormons could narrow the margin. The district, which spans eastern Maricopa County suburbs and Pinal County, is heavily Republican, with Trump winning it by roughly 20 points, and it contains two of Arizona's six LDS temples. Representative Andy Biggs is leaving the seat to run for governor.

The Arizona Republic has reported allegations that Lamb was unfaithful, sent explicit texts to a woman, and warned her he would involve law enforcement if she went public. The paper also reported that church leaders examined claims of sexual impropriety, which matters because the faith treats chastity as central. Lamb denied the accusations at a June event, calling them lies. He did not respond to NPR's interview request.

Latter-day Saints voters Kimberly Tait and Holly Anderson say they cannot back him, citing his alleged dishonesty and the multiple women who have come forward.

Summarized by PolitiKool from NPR’s reporting. Read the full story at NPR →