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Trump's new press secretary suggestion: UFC's Dana White?

Politics & Policy

Scoop: How Epstein ads pushed Dems' closing argument

What was voters' beef? Beef prices

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It's sunset for Tesla's divisive Cybertruck

Arizona Democrats' midterm gains could help sideline Electoral College

Arizona is one of five states where new Democratic majorities could sideline Electoral College.

News

Democrats&#x27; sweeping statehouse gains Tuesday — including in Arizona — have opened a path to effectively replacing the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Electoral College" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2024/11/04/electoral-college-how-it-works" data-vars-content-id="5b9d3f2b-1294-43ca-92be-69a7de6bd11a" data-vars-headline="Arizona Democrats&#x27; midterm gains could help sideline Electoral College" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2024/11/04/electoral-college-how-it-works" target="_self">Electoral College</a> with a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="national popular vote" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2019/03/16/15-states-dc-change-electoral-college-works" data-vars-content-id="5b9d3f2b-1294-43ca-92be-69a7de6bd11a" data-vars-headline="Arizona Democrats&#x27; midterm gains could help sideline Electoral College" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2019/03/16/15-states-dc-change-electoral-college-works" target="_self">national popular vote</a> in time for the 2028 presidential election — without needing to amend the Constitution. Why it matters: The results could give Democrats the legislative power to fundamentally change how America picks its president, potentially ending the possibility of winning the White House while losing the national popular vote.

DOJ investigates Arizona voter drives days before election

A former GOP election official questions the timing.

Election

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Justice Department" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/25/trump-doj-midterms-interference" data-vars-content-id="cfaf39f0-113f-422c-afd9-a8ee3820e933" data-vars-headline="DOJ investigates Arizona voter drives days before election" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/25/trump-doj-midterms-interference" target="_self">Justice Department</a> is investigating the Arizona voter registration efforts of three Democratic-aligned groups after an &quot;undercover&quot; video purported to show volunteers willing to register non-citizens.Why it matters: The Friday announcement comes four days before the Nov. 3 election, and nearly a month after Arizona&#x27;s registration deadline passed, timing one Republican former elections official says could sow unnecessary doubt about the results.

Katie Hobbs wins reelection in Arizona governor's race

Hobbs' victory keeps Arizona's governor's office in Democratic hands and denies Republicans a major pickup.

Arizona <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Gov. Katie Hobbs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/06/aarp-poll-hobbs-biggs" data-vars-content-id="eeea3e3b-dcaf-46a8-bd48-6b1d5f4f9afa" data-vars-headline="Katie Hobbs wins reelection in Arizona governor&#x27;s race" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/06/aarp-poll-hobbs-biggs" target="_self">Gov. Katie Hobbs</a> defeated Republican Andy Biggs to win a second term, keeping the battleground state&#x27;s governor&#x27;s office in Democratic hands, the AP projects. Why it matters: Hobbs has acted as a check on the Republican-controlled Legislature for the past four years, but with Democrats poised to potentially win both the House and Senate, she and her party could have a tremendous impact.

New voter ID system could speed up counting of early ballots

30% of Maricopa County voters who delivered early ballots in the primary used the new option.

Arizonans have a new option this year to bypass the signature verification process for early ballots, potentially speeding up the state&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="infamously long vote-counting process" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/09/19/expect-delayed-election-results-again" data-vars-content-id="b68a86c4-6f8a-4477-88b5-ac9abbca5c0a" data-vars-headline="New voter ID system could speed up counting of early ballots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/09/19/expect-delayed-election-results-again" target="_self">infamously long vote-counting process</a>.Why it matters: Ballot-counting in Arizona can <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="take days" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/11/14/hobbs-narrow-lead-lake-gains-arizona-governor" data-vars-content-id="b68a86c4-6f8a-4477-88b5-ac9abbca5c0a" data-vars-headline="New voter ID system could speed up counting of early ballots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/11/14/hobbs-narrow-lead-lake-gains-arizona-governor" target="_self">take days</a> or even <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="more than a week" data-vars-click-url="https://apnews.com/article/arizona-government-and-politics-7661ea46b45f432db0e893137598b581" data-vars-content-id="b68a86c4-6f8a-4477-88b5-ac9abbca5c0a" data-vars-headline="New voter ID system could speed up counting of early ballots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://apnews.com/article/arizona-government-and-politics-7661ea46b45f432db0e893137598b581" target="_blank">more than a week</a> to determine winners in the closest races.

There's an under-the-radar Jamaican restaurant in central Phoenix

Champagne Cafe + Lounge has been open for nine months.

Food and Drink

For nine months, central Phoenix has had a new Jamaican restaurant, although diners are just now catching on to its existence.Dig in: Earlier this week, Axios stopped by for a pre-election night meal at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Champagne Cafe + Lounge" data-vars-click-url="https://champagneloungephx.com/contact.php" data-vars-content-id="bd56e095-40dd-4023-9a02-b65d64bc4345" data-vars-headline="There&#x27;s an under-the-radar Jamaican restaurant in central Phoenix" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://champagneloungephx.com/contact.php" target="_blank">Champagne Cafe + Lounge</a>, located in an unassuming storefront at 15th Avenue and Camelback Road.

You'll need a nap after eating a burger at La Hamburguesa

These big, messy burgers require a recovery period.

Eating at Phoenix <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="burger spot" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/03/25/bad-jimmys-chain-burgers-phoenix" data-vars-content-id="1fdba2e6-06bd-45a4-8748-b2455f076764" data-vars-headline="You&#x27;ll need a nap after eating a burger at La Hamburguesa" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/03/25/bad-jimmys-chain-burgers-phoenix" target="_self">burger spot</a> La Hamburguesa presents two logistical challenges: finding the restaurant, whose building still features the previous tenant&#x27;s sign, and finding a couch to lie down on afterward.Dig in: The Axios Phoenix team grabbed lunch there last week, and after a hefty meal of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="burgers and fries" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/11/12/get-a-cheap-burger-in-phoenix" data-vars-content-id="1fdba2e6-06bd-45a4-8748-b2455f076764" data-vars-headline="You&#x27;ll need a nap after eating a burger at La Hamburguesa" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/11/12/get-a-cheap-burger-in-phoenix" target="_self">burgers and fries</a>, we just woke up a few minutes ago.

Downtown Phoenix's historic Ellis building will become Marriott hotel

The former office building was built in 1922.

Real Estate

The historic Ellis building <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="downtown" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/17/phoenix-welcomes-new-nih-facility-to-downtown" data-vars-content-id="c32d52f5-dfec-47be-80da-1af07a8cf143" data-vars-headline="Downtown Phoenix&#x27;s historic Ellis building will become Marriott hotel" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/17/phoenix-welcomes-new-nih-facility-to-downtown" target="_self">downtown</a> was sold for $10.3 million earlier this month and will become a Marriott <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="hotel" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/03/12/sheraton-phoenix-crescent-to-become-attainable-luxury-apartments" data-vars-content-id="c32d52f5-dfec-47be-80da-1af07a8cf143" data-vars-headline="Downtown Phoenix&#x27;s historic Ellis building will become Marriott hotel" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/03/12/sheraton-phoenix-crescent-to-become-attainable-luxury-apartments" target="_self">hotel</a>.Why it matters: The project will give new life to the old office building, which was built in 1922 and has been vacant for several years.

Phoenix is the epicenter of institutional landlords, new study shows

Houses are being built — but to rent, not own.

The Valley is one of the biggest markets for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="institutional investment landlords" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/07/10/institutional-investors-arizona-home-buying-decreases" data-vars-content-id="1c1387ad-491c-40c2-ae61-c11741737de9" data-vars-headline="Phoenix is the epicenter of institutional landlords, new study shows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/07/10/institutional-investors-arizona-home-buying-decreases" target="_self">institutional investment landlords</a> — that is, professional investors managing huge pots of money who buy up single-family homes, per a new study.Why it matters: Housing affordability in the Phoenix area is already a problem, and the prevalence of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="corporate landlords" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/07/trump-institutional-investor-home-ban" data-vars-content-id="1c1387ad-491c-40c2-ae61-c11741737de9" data-vars-headline="Phoenix is the epicenter of institutional landlords, new study shows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/07/trump-institutional-investor-home-ban" target="_self">corporate landlords</a> makes it only harder for the average resident to afford a home.

The Randy Bennett era of Sun Devils men's hoops begins

The new coach has completely reshaped the ASU roster.

Sports

After 11 middling-to-disappointing years under <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bobby Hurley" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/03/06/bobby-hurley-asu-sun-devils-mens-basketball-coach-contract-expiring" data-vars-content-id="97622f5b-8cde-4b55-9ca1-a54c62937c49" data-vars-headline="The Randy Bennett era of Sun Devils men&#x27;s hoops begins" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/03/06/bobby-hurley-asu-sun-devils-mens-basketball-coach-contract-expiring" target="_self">Bobby Hurley</a>, the Arizona State men&#x27;s basketball team is hoping for a fresh start under new head coach Randy Bennett.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Sun Devils" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/10/27/asu-womens-basketball-phoenix-public-library-tickets" data-vars-content-id="97622f5b-8cde-4b55-9ca1-a54c62937c49" data-vars-headline="The Randy Bennett era of Sun Devils men&#x27;s hoops begins" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/10/27/asu-womens-basketball-phoenix-public-library-tickets" target="_self">The Sun Devils</a> haven&#x27;t made the NCAA Tournament since 2023 — and never made it past the first round under Hurley — but Bennett brings a long history of success from his quarter-century stint at St. Mary&#x27;s.

Cats reload after Final Four run

First-team All-American Motiejus Krivas and recruit Caleb Holt will be key for the Cats this year.

The Arizona Wildcats lost most of the players from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="last season&#x27;s Final Four squad" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/03/30/arizona-wildcats-beat-purdue-return-to-final-four" data-vars-content-id="3b6ea22a-682c-47fe-8c77-5f833a6d0742" data-vars-headline="Cats reload after Final Four run" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/03/30/arizona-wildcats-beat-purdue-return-to-final-four" target="_self">last season&#x27;s Final Four squad</a> but should be back in the national championship conversation after bringing back two starters and reloading with highly touted recruits and transfers.The big picture: The Cats start the men&#x27;s basketball season as the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="No. 5 team" data-vars-click-url="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll" data-vars-content-id="3b6ea22a-682c-47fe-8c77-5f833a6d0742" data-vars-headline="Cats reload after Final Four run" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll" target="_blank">No. 5 team</a> nationally and are favored to win the Big 12 for a second consecutive year.

Women's Final Four generated $71.5M in economic impact, per ASU study

In addition to the overall economic impact, the study found the Final Four added $42.2 million to Arizona's GDP

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="2026 NCAA Women&#x27;s Final Four," data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/04/03/final-four-fan-events-games-concerts-watch-parties" data-vars-content-id="4a6cbc71-d752-4ce5-b1ab-992d08e725c3" data-vars-headline="Women&#x27;s Final Four generated $71.5M in economic impact, per ASU study" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/04/03/final-four-fan-events-games-concerts-watch-parties" target="_self">2026 NCAA Women&#x27;s Final Four,</a> which Phoenix hosted for the first time earlier this year, generated $71.5 million in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="economic impact" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/04/02/washington-activity-center-gets-final-four-upgrades" data-vars-content-id="4a6cbc71-d752-4ce5-b1ab-992d08e725c3" data-vars-headline="Women&#x27;s Final Four generated $71.5M in economic impact, per ASU study" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/04/02/washington-activity-center-gets-final-four-upgrades" target="_self">economic impact</a>, according to a study released Wednesday.Why it matters: The analysis attempts to quantify the value brought to the city and state by hosting such marquee sports events.

Suns and Mercury plan new $60M downtown Phoenix YMCA

The historic downtown Phoenix YMCA building that opened in the 1950s closed last month.

The Phoenix Suns and Mercury plan to help build a $60 million YMCA building in downtown Phoenix, replacing the historic facility that closed last month. Why it matters: The Lincoln Family Downtown YMCA was a community institution and its closure <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="displaced hundreds of low-income residents" data-vars-click-url="https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/metro-phoenix/2026/09/30/residents-look-for-housing-as-downtown-phoenix-ymca-closes/92029021007/" data-vars-content-id="7364e624-d3d5-4f40-85b9-389c7840d5f4" data-vars-headline="Suns and Mercury plan new $60M downtown Phoenix YMCA" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/metro-phoenix/2026/09/30/residents-look-for-housing-as-downtown-phoenix-ymca-closes/92029021007/" target="_blank">displaced hundreds of low-income residents</a>.

Nation's largest Indigenous tribe elects its first woman president

The first Navajo woman president faces a drilling test.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Navajo Nation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/09/13/navajo-nation-voter-registration-horseback" data-vars-content-id="f6d1963e-d38b-4348-98f8-b0424cc7d1c1" data-vars-headline="Nation&#x27;s largest Indigenous tribe elects its first woman president" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/09/13/navajo-nation-voter-registration-horseback" target="_self">Navajo Nation</a> voters made history this week by choosing their first woman president, handing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Crystalyne Curley" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/Curley.2026" data-vars-content-id="f6d1963e-d38b-4348-98f8-b0424cc7d1c1" data-vars-headline="Nation&#x27;s largest Indigenous tribe elects its first woman president" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/Curley.2026" target="_blank">Crystalyne Curley</a> a groundbreaking victory — and a political fight before she even takes office.Why it matters: Curley&#x27;s victory breaks a barrier in the Navajo Nation, where women hold deep cultural influence, but men have long dominated the presidency.

Scottsdale

Graham, Ugenti-Rita on track to win Scottsdale council seats

Civic leader Raoul Zubia conceded late Thursday.

Councilmember Barry Graham and former state lawmaker Michelle Ugenti-Rita are poised to win Scottsdale&#x27;s two remaining City Council seats after civic leader Raoul Zubia conceded late Thursday.Why it matters: The concession settles a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="crowded council election" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/07/22/whats-next-in-scottsdale-city-council-election" data-vars-content-id="0b8cb69d-736a-4857-bda5-d4c4172d7e56" data-vars-headline="Graham, Ugenti-Rita on track to win Scottsdale council seats" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/07/22/whats-next-in-scottsdale-city-council-election" target="_self">crowded council election</a> that began with eight candidates competing for three seats.

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Arizona's tallest natural Christmas tree arrives in north Phoenix

The 70-foot tree will hold 5,000 ornaments and 1.5 miles of string lights.

Holidays

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Halloween" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/11/02/weather-phoenix-halloween-rain-unusual?utm_source=dailydigest" data-vars-content-id="47e4756e-9ffd-40ed-ad0d-8d4af2989fad" data-vars-headline="Arizona&#x27;s tallest natural Christmas tree arrives in north Phoenix" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/11/02/weather-phoenix-halloween-rain-unusual?utm_source=dailydigest" target="_self">Halloween</a> is over and Thanksgiving is on deck, but one piece of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Christmas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/12/09/an-arizona-christmas" data-vars-content-id="47e4756e-9ffd-40ed-ad0d-8d4af2989fad" data-vars-headline="Arizona&#x27;s tallest natural Christmas tree arrives in north Phoenix" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2025/12/09/an-arizona-christmas" target="_self">Christmas</a> has already arrived in north Phoenix.The latest: Axios watched as the 70-foot, natural Christmas tree was hoisted into place early Thursday at Outlets North Phoenix.

Amish Shah flips Arizona congressional seat

The former state lawmaker narrowly lost the district in 2024.

Politics

Democrat Amish Shah won Arizona&#x27;s highly competitive <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="1st Congressional District" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/scottsdale/2026/10/20/arizona-cd-1-election-jay-feely-amish-shah" data-vars-content-id="b1a8a125-30de-4efc-82eb-90c305f60de7" data-vars-headline="Amish Shah flips Arizona congressional seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/scottsdale/2026/10/20/arizona-cd-1-election-jay-feely-amish-shah" target="_self">1st Congressional District</a>, flipping the seat after years of Republican control, the Associated Press projected Thursday morning.Why it matters: Shah&#x27;s victory in one of the country&#x27;s most closely watched congressional races helped Democrats expand their House majority.

Valley roadways among the most dangerous in the nation, study says

The region ranks alarmingly high for pedestrian deaths, among other issues.

Public Safety

Our roads in the Valley are some of the deadliest in the country, per a new traffic study. Why it matters: The analysis, conducted by the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), could lead to new countermeasures to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="make our roads safer" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/05/11/study-reverse-suicide-lanes-sevens-survey-public-input" data-vars-content-id="b7fe5d8b-6148-4879-9e18-2220aefb7bc3" data-vars-headline="Valley roadways among the most dangerous in the nation, study says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/05/11/study-reverse-suicide-lanes-sevens-survey-public-input" target="_self">make our roads safer</a>.

All that Halloween weekend rain was really unusual

Phoenix area saw rain Oct. 31 for the first time in nearly four decades.

They say weird things happen on All Hallow&#x27;s Eve, and in the Valley this year one eerie occurrence was <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="meteorological" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/06/17/a-110-degree-halloween" data-vars-content-id="fe460999-0dde-4b7a-9303-3d37d6a7dafc" data-vars-headline="All that Halloween weekend rain was really unusual" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/06/17/a-110-degree-halloween" target="_self">meteorological</a> — an absurd amount <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="of rain" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/18/second-driest-year-national-weather-service-phoenix-el-nino" data-vars-content-id="fe460999-0dde-4b7a-9303-3d37d6a7dafc" data-vars-headline="All that Halloween weekend rain was really unusual" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/18/second-driest-year-national-weather-service-phoenix-el-nino" target="_self">of rain</a>.Why it matters: Many parts of the Phoenix area received more than 2 inches of rain from Friday through Sunday, including precipitation on Halloween for the first time in nearly four decades.

Where in the Valley?

Welcome to another edition of &quot;Where in the Valley?&quot;How it works: We show you something cool. You tell us where it is.

Mesa

Your guide to celebrating Diwali in the Valley

From craft nights to temple festivities, here's how to embrace Festival of Lights.

Things to Do

Diwali, the Hindu festival marking triumph of light over darkness, is on Sunday. Why it matters: I may be far from home this year, but that hasn&#x27;t stopped me from creating the perfect itinerary to celebrate.

Savannah Bananas returning to Phoenix in 2027

The lottery for Savannah Bananas tickets is open through Oct. 31.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Savannah Bananas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2023/10/12/the-savannah-bananas-are-coming-to-the-valley" data-vars-content-id="d5b27cae-30ba-403f-8775-9af58113e6be" data-vars-headline="Savannah Bananas returning to Phoenix in 2027" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2023/10/12/the-savannah-bananas-are-coming-to-the-valley" target="_self">Savannah Bananas</a> are coming back to the Valley next year. State of play: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Banana Ball" data-vars-click-url="https://bananaball.com/" data-vars-content-id="d5b27cae-30ba-403f-8775-9af58113e6be" data-vars-headline="Savannah Bananas returning to Phoenix in 2027" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://bananaball.com/" target="_blank">Banana Ball</a> league announced its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="2027 schedule" data-vars-click-url="https://bananaball.com/schedule/" data-vars-content-id="d5b27cae-30ba-403f-8775-9af58113e6be" data-vars-headline="Savannah Bananas returning to Phoenix in 2027" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://bananaball.com/schedule/" target="_blank">2027 schedule</a>, which includes a pair of games in Phoenix.

Seafood City's "Late Night Madness" party hits Chandler this weekend

The free, viral parties are a big part of the Filipino grocery chain's appeal.

Valley residents can get their first taste of the full Seafood City experience on Saturday, when the popular <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Filipino grocery chain" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/10/06/seafood-city-filipino-food-hall-grill-city-review-chander-fashion-center" data-vars-content-id="d81ae45d-65fa-4207-b15d-57dae36c9d1c" data-vars-headline="Seafood City&#x27;s &quot;Late Night Madness&quot; party hits Chandler this weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/10/06/seafood-city-filipino-food-hall-grill-city-review-chander-fashion-center" target="_self">Filipino grocery chain</a> will host the first Arizona edition of its famous <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="&quot;Late Night Madness&quot; " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/19/chandler-seafood-city-late-night-madness-" data-vars-content-id="d81ae45d-65fa-4207-b15d-57dae36c9d1c" data-vars-headline="Seafood City&#x27;s &quot;Late Night Madness&quot; party hits Chandler this weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/19/chandler-seafood-city-late-night-madness-" target="_self">&quot;Late Night Madness&quot; </a>event.Why it matters: The free viral dance-and-DJ parties, which became a sensation when introduced at Seafood City locations in California, are a big part of the chain&#x27;s appeal.

Revamped Pride festival moves out of Steele Indian School Park

Phoenix Pride struggled financially this year and declared bankruptcy in May.

The Phoenix Pride Festival will be a lot different this year as the organization grapples with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="financial problems" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/06/02/phoenix-pride-bankruptcy-national-trend-corporate-sponsorships" data-vars-content-id="6e440952-7e8d-421b-9ee6-f76c0b6d1597" data-vars-headline="Revamped Pride festival moves out of Steele Indian School Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/06/02/phoenix-pride-bankruptcy-national-trend-corporate-sponsorships" target="_self">financial problems</a>.Why it matters: The annual festival is a source of inclusion and belonging for members of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="LGBTQ+ communities" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2022/11/04/arizona-lgbtq-voters-growing" data-vars-content-id="6e440952-7e8d-421b-9ee6-f76c0b6d1597" data-vars-headline="Revamped Pride festival moves out of Steele Indian School Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2022/11/04/arizona-lgbtq-voters-growing" target="_self">LGBTQ+ communities</a>.

Phoenix's new Pride in Melrose Festival guide: When, where, what to know

The new event will be free and family friendly, organizers say.

The Melrose District, famously Phoenix&#x27;s &quot;gayborhood,&quot; is hosting free <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pride" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/06/02/pride-events-phoenix-2026" data-vars-content-id="ce67a738-58a1-4a6c-8ac0-0e8f7f975b65" data-vars-headline="Phoenix&#x27;s new Pride in Melrose Festival guide: When, where, what to know" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/06/02/pride-events-phoenix-2026" target="_self">Pride</a> festivities on Saturday.Why it matters: With the Phoenix Pride organization <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="mired in bankruptcy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/06/02/phoenix-pride-bankruptcy-national-trend-corporate-sponsorships" data-vars-content-id="ce67a738-58a1-4a6c-8ac0-0e8f7f975b65" data-vars-headline="Phoenix&#x27;s new Pride in Melrose Festival guide: When, where, what to know" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/06/02/phoenix-pride-bankruptcy-national-trend-corporate-sponsorships" target="_self">mired in bankruptcy</a> and scaling back its own event, the event offers a chance for residents to celebrate LGBTQ+ culture in the neighborhood most defined by it.

I defied death and ate all the weirdest Arizona State Fair food

It was an uncomfortable lesson in stomach capacity.

State Fair

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Arizona State Fair" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/10/02/arizona-state-fair-prices-parking-deals-2026" data-vars-content-id="593e3e4c-58cb-4432-8893-8ac2e30b6f06" data-vars-headline="I defied death and ate all the weirdest Arizona State Fair food" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/10/02/arizona-state-fair-prices-parking-deals-2026" target="_self">Arizona State Fair</a> has more weird food items — massive, fried, shoved-on-a-stick or all of the above — than one person can safely consume.Why it matters: I know, because I stupidly tried.

What you need to know for Election Day

The election will decide state offices, ballot measures, city council seats and more.

Intersections crammed with campaign signs, incessant text messages, mailboxes overflowing with mailers and wall-to-wall TV ads have led us to this moment — Election Day is here.

Democrats again seek elusive control of Legislature

A few districts will determine if Democrats win the Legislature for the first time since the 1960s.

Arizona Democrats have gotten used to saying &quot;This could be our year&quot; as they try to win <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="control of the Legislature" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/06/24/legislative-races-to-watch-arizona-primary-2024" data-vars-content-id="3bea28bf-d0d9-43cf-a28c-ccd3a257c945" data-vars-headline="Democrats again seek elusive control of Legislature" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2024/06/24/legislative-races-to-watch-arizona-primary-2024" target="_self">control of the Legislature</a> — and hopes are high that 2026 could finally be their year.Why it matters: With Gov. Katie Hobbs <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="favored to win" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/polls/arizona-governor-election-polls-2026.html" data-vars-content-id="3bea28bf-d0d9-43cf-a28c-ccd3a257c945" data-vars-headline="Democrats again seek elusive control of Legislature" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/polls/arizona-governor-election-polls-2026.html" target="_blank">favored to win</a> reelection next week, control of the Legislature will likely determine whether Arizona has a split government or one-party Democratic control.

Democrats eye strongly Republican 2nd Congressional District

Jonathan Nez is getting a lot more support than he did against against Eli Crane in 2024.

An unexpectedly competitive race in a congressional district that President Trump easily won by double digits two years ago could spell trouble as Republicans look to fend off a Democratic wave.Why it matters: Significant spending by both parties in the 2nd Congressional District, which covers most of rural, northern Arizona and extends into northern Pinal County, suggests that even districts normally considered to be safe Republican territory could be up for grabs.

Prop. 320 effect on technical education programs unclear

The Arizona Auditor General will determine whether Prop. 320 applies to CTEDs.

State officials are trying to determine whether a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ballot measure" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/25/statewide-ballot-measures-propositions-arizona-election-2026-" data-vars-content-id="4fe3f896-495e-4101-849c-0e30ac26c1fe" data-vars-headline="Prop. 320 effect on technical education programs unclear" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/phoenix/2026/08/25/statewide-ballot-measures-propositions-arizona-election-2026-" target="_self">ballot measure</a> mandating specific levels of classroom spending by school districts would apply to unique districts for technical education.Why it matters: Career and Technical Education District (CTED) schools and programs serve <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tens of thousands" data-vars-click-url="https://arizonadigitalfreepress.com/west-mec-reaches-record-enrollment-as-career-education-demand-grows/" data-vars-content-id="4fe3f896-495e-4101-849c-0e30ac26c1fe" data-vars-headline="Prop. 320 effect on technical education programs unclear" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://arizonadigitalfreepress.com/west-mec-reaches-record-enrollment-as-career-education-demand-grows/" target="_blank">tens of thousands</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="of students" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cusd80.com/newsroom/press-releases/details/~board/hp-news/post/arizona-school-districts-highlight-the-value-of-on-campus-career-and-technical-education-programs?utm_source=chatgpt.com" data-vars-content-id="4fe3f896-495e-4101-849c-0e30ac26c1fe" data-vars-headline="Prop. 320 effect on technical education programs unclear" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cusd80.com/newsroom/press-releases/details/~board/hp-news/post/arizona-school-districts-highlight-the-value-of-on-campus-career-and-technical-education-programs?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">of students</a>, and if those districts are subject to Proposition 320 then they&#x27;ll be at risk of losing funding if they don&#x27;t comply.

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