Re-Elect Maryann McAllen in 2028, and Yes, We Know It’s Early

Endorsing a candidate two years before she announces is unusual. Frankly, we don’t care. Scottsdale’s city council needs Maryann McAllen, and we see no reason to wait until 2028 to say so. Why is that?

A Council That Can’t Stop Talking Over Itself

The contention started early in her tenure. Yes, there would always be some degree of friction between the conservative and liberal factions of Council, but 2025 turned outright ugly at times, with even the conservative faction arguing with the mayor. Arguments about staffing, about water, about a parking garage…it seemed as though there was not one issue that could gain a consensus. Leaked recordings captured that contention and brought it to the forefront. Members talked over each other while arguing about their own rules. One resident called the council “the worst example of elected officials” he had seen in decades.

Even through all of this, one person was notably absent from the chaos.

What a Steady Hand Looks Like

Maryann McAllen refused to get drawn into the various conflagrations on council. But taking a step back, it’s worth noting that she is the epitome of Scottsdale. She has lived here for 60 years, and she was student body president at Coronado High School. After college, she spent 14 years with the city in Recreation and Human Services. Later she chaired the Parks and Recreation Commission. Today she runs a small business and leads the Coronado Foundation for the Future, which funds scholarships for local students.

She serves with a smile, too. More importantly, she comes across as a genuinely decent human being. On this council, that is not a small thing. It may be the rarest thing.

Why One Person Matters

One member cannot set the tone for seven. However, tone is not nothing. Every room has someone who keeps the temperature down. Take that person away, and the room gets louder.

The interruptions, the leaks and the staffing fights will not shrink without her. Instead, they will grow. Scottsdale residents have watched enough of that already.

Don’t Wait

Campaigns usually start early for those with the most to gain. We are starting early for the voters. Scottsdale does not often reward decency in politics. In 2028, it should.

Re-elect Maryann McAllen.