Arizona Representative Seth Blattman to Step Down, Cites Financial Challenges
Seth Blattman, a Democrat from Mesa, announced his decision on Friday to not seek reelection for the Arizona House of Representatives, attributing his choice to low legislative pay among other factors. Blattman, who began his tenure in 2022, will fulfill his current term for Legislative District 9 before stepping away.
While not ruling out a return to politics in the future, Blattman indicated he is currently pursuing opportunities in the business sector. The recent closure of his family’s furniture store, which he previously worked at alongside his legislative duties, significantly influenced his decision.
Arizona legislators earn an annual salary of $24,000, a figure Blattman pointed to as insufficient to sustain a living without supplementary income. “The Legislature does not pay a living wage, and I still hope to one day raise a family,” Blattman communicated via text.
Blattman’s departure is not an isolated incident. Financial pressures have led others, like former Democratic Sen. Eva Burch, to step down. Burch resigned last year citing low pay.
In recent years, a trend of Democratic legislators leaving the Arizona Legislature has emerged for various reasons. For instance, Sen. Mitzi Epstein (D-Tempe) announced in September that she won’t run for another term as well. In 2024, seven Democrats vacated their positions in the state House.
In his announcement, Blattman endorsed Jacob Martinez as his preferred successor. Legislative District 9 is a battleground, and Democrats must work to retain their seats. According to Martinez’s campaign website, his main focuses include affordability, enhancing public education, providing affordable housing, and safeguarding Arizona’s water resources.
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