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Congressional District 8: Candidates prepare on eve of Arizona special election

Posted at 9:27 PM, Apr 23, 2018
and last updated 2018-04-24 10:02:45-04

Several hundred people packed a Sun City clubhouse Monday night on the eve of the Arizona Congressional District 8 special election.  

They were there to hear Dr. Hiral Tipirneni, a Democrat who's running against former state lawmaker and Republican Debbie Lesko for the seat Trent Franks resigned from late last year

Lesko is the favorite to win in this reliably-Republican district, but recent polling shows a tighter race with some polls showing Tipirneni within striking distance. 

Tipirneni, who was introduced by her teenage son on stage, said she'd get working right away on healthcare reform if elected. 

Tipirneni says it's not just her side that's energized, it's the whole district. 

"We're going for the win. We're working hard for the victory, no doubt. But it's been a win already. Look at the district. Democrats have come out. Independents have connected with us. Republicans have connected with us. It's a victory," said Tipirneni

ABC15 interviewed Lesko, Tipirneni's opponent, after the rally. Her camp is also feeling optimistic about their chances Tuesday.  

"The people on this side of town know me," explained Lesko. "And I know them. And I think I'm going to win it, but I never take anything for granted and I'm always working hard, but I'm feeling good."