Democrats shut down Arizona office after shootings

Arizona Democrats closed their field office in Tempe, Ariz., after three shooting incidents. The office served as a base for the Sun State’s congressional campaigns and Vice President Harris’s presidential effort in recent weeks.

The Tempe Police Department said the latest incidents on Oct. 6 involved gunshots fired at the Democratic campaign office at around 12:30 a.m. They said no one was inside the building. Officers are now looking for a silver Toyota Highlander with an unknown plate, which was seen on the premises. 

Lauren Kuby, a state Senate candidate in Legislative District 8, told USA Today that candidates and staffers quietly moved operations to an undisclosed location to ensure the team’s safety. The incident came days before first lady Jill Biden and former President Obama were scheduled to campaign in the battleground state.

Prior to the October shooting, reports show damage to the property on Sept. 16 and 23, either caused by a BB gun or additional gunfire. Officers are now investigating the destruction and are offering $1,000 to witnesses who can provide more information.

The onset of violence comes toward the end of a tumultuous election cycle in which former President Trump faced two assassination attempts. 

The Hill has reached out to Arizona Democrats for further comment.