Democrat JoAnna Mendoza wants to decriminalize prostitution to help prostitutes in Arizona
The Arizona Democrat running to introduce Rep. Juan Ciscomani supported the legalization of prostitution to help transgender people find a life.
JoAnna Mendoza, who is running in one of the most competitive races in the country, was asked by Michael Soto, then-executive director of Equality Arizona, if she would “give up sex work” to help “trans folks, especially women of color,” since “discrimination is so prevalent in the formal employment sector.”
Yes. And that, you know, also, it’s important to ensure that there is access to services, support networks, social services, access to health care,” Mendoza said in a 2020 interview.
“You know, to eliminate discriminatory practices and laws so that everyone has the opportunity to support themselves.”
Mendoza, a bisexual Navy veteran, added that “we need to stop criminalizing people because of their circumstances.”
“And, you know, people don’t want to go down that way, but (inaudible) there is no other way and they must do so,” said Mendoza.
“It’s sad to me that people find themselves in these situations that they have no way out of, so for me I would like to see more communication tools and resources and support networks in place for the LGBTQ community so that they can find a job that will allow them to live the best life possible.”
The video obtained by The Post has since been removed from Equality Arizona’s social media page.
The Democratic congressional candidate also said “yes,” when asked if he would “outlaw minor crimes” such as “not crossing the street or spitting.”
“Yeah. You know, I think in the past, Arizona in particular, has a history of trying to do these practices that target certain groups, right? So we need to make sure that we protect people from racist practices. (inaudible) that can lead to violence or crime,” he said.
The Post reached out to Mendoza’s campaign for comment but has not heard back.
Mendoza raised $2.3 million in the first quarter of the year according to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), and poses a serious threat to Ciscomani, who has faced a strong Democratic challenger in the past few election cycles in the battleground state.
Since launching his campaign in February, Mendoza has raised $5.3 million, according to the FEC.
The Democratic nominee has also received endorsements from both Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego, as well as Congressman Greg Stanton.
Arizona’s 6th congressional district includes primarily the city of Tucson, which has a severe unaffordability and homelessness problem.
Ciscomani has been representing the district since 2023, but Democrats believe Mendoza has a legitimate shot at taking the seat.
Back in February, the DCCC targeted Mendoza and several other Arizona Democrats as part of their “Red to Blue” initiative, which provides “high-profile candidates” with additional funding and support.
