Shah, Feely Vie for Arizona House Seat

Democrat Amish Shah and Republican Jay Feely contested Arizona's 1st Congressional District as voting concluded Nov. 3.

Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Elections

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Voters decided the Arizona 1st Congressional District race between Democrat Amish Shah and Republican Jay Feely. Unofficial results were expected the evening of Election Day, though they remain unofficial until local and state officials certify them.

Why it matters

The race drew more than $25 million in outside political spending as of mid-October, reflecting its significance to national party control of the House. Confirming a winner in close races could take several days or weeks.

Outside political spending exceeded $25 million as of mid-October, with $6 million from a Trump-linked Safety & Affordability PAC and $6 million from a Republican super PAC for House control. Unofficial results remain subject to certification, and the final vote margin has not been confirmed.

The players

Amish Shah

Amish Shah is a Democratic candidate and emergency room doctor who previously served as a state legislator in Arizona.

Jay Feely

Jay Feely is a Republican candidate and former Arizona Cardinals kicker who was endorsed by President Donald Trump.

The details

Early voting began Oct. 7 in the district, which includes the Scottsdale area. Feely, a former Arizona Cardinals kicker endorsed by President Donald Trump, beat two other candidates for the Republican nomination and shifted his tone after pivoting into the district, pitching himself as an independent. Shah is an emergency room doctor and former state legislator.

Oct. 7: Early voting began in the district.
Mid-October: Outside spending surpassed $25 million.
Nov. 3: Voting concluded, with unofficial results expected that evening.

Political Context

The contest was shaped by heavy outside spending from national party-aligned and affiliated groups, which pushed the total above $25 million by mid-October. Feely's shift toward an independent-style pitch after moving into the district reflects the pressures candidates face when relocating to compete in a new electorate.

Arizona voters in the 1st District are awaiting official certification of results before the winner is confirmed. Because unofficial results are subject to change, residents should watch for certified outcomes from state and local officials.

The takeaway

Heavy outside spending can shape a district race well beyond its borders, and close contests may take days or weeks to resolve officially. Readers following Arizona politics should wait for certified results before drawing firm conclusions.