Former Arizona state representative Amish Shah secured the Democratic nomination for the 1st Congressional District in a closely contested primary, defeating establishment-backed candidate Marlene Galán-Woods.

The race, held on July 22, 2026, marked a significant moment for Democrats seeking to reclaim a Republican-held district that Trump narrowly won by three points in 2024.

Shah's victory underscores growing frustration within the party with Washington-based leadership, as voters rejected Galán-Woods, a DCCC-endorsed candidate.

This marks the second consecutive time Shah has won the district's Democratic primary, having previously defeated Republican David Schweikert in 2024.The seat became available when Schweikert shifted focus to the GOP gubernatorial primary against Andy Biggs.Shah will now face Trump-endorsed NFL kicker Jay Feely in the general election.The 1st District, spanning Phoenix and affluent areas like Scottsdale, remains a critical battleground for national Democrats.The outcome highlights shifting dynamics in Arizona politics as candidates navigate both party challenges and regional voter preferences.