Early voting is underway in Arizona for the midterm election. And every race matters, from the governor to the U.S. Senate, the state Legislature and school boards.

The Gaggle and The Arizona Republic’s political team are connecting with candidates so that you can hear them make their case to voters in their words.

This is part of a series of special bonus episodes of The Gaggle appearing throughout the voting period.

In this bonus episode you’ll hear from Democratic candidate Kirsten Engel who is running for the 6th Congressional District. This district covers parts of Tucson, Pima County and sections of others.

This is Arizona's only U.S. House race without an incumbent running. Representative Ann Kirkpatrick is stepping down.

We reached out to the Republican candidate for this race, Juan Ciscomani, but he didn’t respond to our request to participate.

You will hear Tara Kavaler, a politics reporter for the Arizona Republic, ask the questions. This interview was recorded on speaker phone, so please be aware of the lower sound quality.

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BONUS: Q&A with CD6 candidate Kirsten Engel