|
Glassman vs. Petersen: A Clear Choice for Arizona Attorney General
The race for Arizona Attorney General is beginning to take shape, and Republican voters are already seeing a stark contrast between the candidates—Lt Col Rodney Glassman and Warren Petersen.
Earlier this month at the LD12 meeting, both candidates were scheduled to attend. However, what should have been a straightforward opportunity for Republican voters to hear from both men turned into something much more telling. Warren Petersen reportedly refused to speak unless Rodney Glassman went first and appeared visibly frustrated upon learning Glassman would be in attendance. That moment raised an important question: why avoid sharing the stage?
On Saturday, March 21st, both Rodney Glassman and Warren Petersen were scheduled to speak in Prescott. However, Petersen was a no-show—once again avoiding the opportunity to go head-to-head with Glassman. This is becoming a troubling pattern. If Petersen is unwilling to stand on the same stage as his political opponent, how can Arizonans expect him to stand up for them when it matters most?
Leadership requires showing up, engaging in tough conversations, and defending your ideas in front of voters. Yet Petersen appears to be doing the opposite—going so far as to avoid even being in the same room as Glassman. Arizona needs an Attorney General who is willing to face challenges directly, not sidestep them. This race is just getting started, and already we’re seeing avoidance instead of accountability. Is that what Arizonans want? More importantly, is that what Arizona needs?
Debates and forums are a fundamental part of the political process. Voters deserve to see candidates side by side, compare their ideas, and evaluate their qualifications. Yet Petersen’s reluctance to engage—even in the same room—suggests an unwillingness to face that comparison.
And when you look at the candidates’ backgrounds, the contrast becomes even clearer.
Rodney Glassman has significantly outraised Petersen, nearly three to one, demonstrating strong grassroots and donor support. More importantly, Glassman brings real legal experience to the table. The role of Attorney General is not ceremonial—it requires someone who understands the law, has practiced it, and is prepared to defend Arizona in court.
By contrast, Warren Petersen has never represented a client, argued a case in court, or prosecuted a criminal matter. He has also never ran outside of his solidly red district, meaning he has not yet been tested in a competitive statewide race. While Petersen has built relationships within the legislature, those connections alone do not equate to the legal experience required for Arizona’s top law enforcement position. Glassman has 17 years of legal experience. The choice is clear.
It’s also worth noting that Petersen is term-limited in his current role, which is why he is seeking this office. He has the backing of a well-known political network, but that raises another important question: is he being advanced because he is the best candidate—or because he is the most connected and will do what he is told?
Arizona voters must decide what they want in their next Attorney General. Do we want someone guided by political insiders, or someone prepared to independently represent the people of this state?
Congressman Gosar has endorsed Glassman for Attorney General and Biggs for Governor - stating he trusts both to do the job. Sheriff Jerry Sheridan also endorses and trusts Glassman.
This race is about more than politics—it’s about transparency and leadership. And voters deserve a candidate who is willing to stand on a stage, defend their record, and earn their vote.
| 
