Veterans Day marks the anniversary of the armistice in World War I, which went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Every year on November 11, the United States celebrates and honors veterans in recognition of their “patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.”
Those same values compelled hundreds of veterans to run for office this year, with many running on a commitment to common-sense efforts to reduce gun violence and keep communities safe.
To mark this year’s Veteran’s Day, we spoke with Arizona State Representative-elect and U.S. Army Veteran Aaron Márquez about how his military service influenced his decision to run for office and why he applied for the Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate Distinction. We also asked him what comes next after his successful bid for District 5 Arizona State House Representative.
The following responses have been lightly edited for length and clarity.
Why did you decide to run for Arizona State House Representative in District 5?
Aaron Márquez: Arizona’s District 5 isn’t just where I live—it’s where I get to serve my neighbors and where I’ve chosen to raise my daughter.
I decided to run because I believe in the promise of Arizona and want to see our communities thrive.
I’ve spent years working in Arizona politics, learning about the needs and strengths of our communities. Running for office was a natural next step in continuing my service to our country following my time in the military. Serving in the State House allows me to make a difference where it matters most, bringing meaningful change to issues like public education, gun safety, and veteran affairs—and defending abortion rights and our democracy. Public service isn’t just a job: It’s a commitment to the community I love, and I’m proud to be part of Arizona’s future.
How, if at all, did your former military service and/or your status as a veteran influence your decision to run for office?
The Army laid the foundation for shaping how I view leadership and responsibility. I believe that the military trains every service member to be a leader, a team builder, and a problem solver. As an Army officer, I know the three pillars of military gun culture—training, safety, and accountability. I hope to bring that insight from the military to Arizona’s state policies to keep our people safe.
I also understand the immense responsibility of serving as a Latino elected official in Arizona. Our Latino communities deserve representation that understands and reflects their experiences. I want to bring our voices and concerns to the table and fight back against hateful legislation that targets Latino and immigrant communities.
You co-founded VetsForward. Can you talk a little bit about why you co-founded that organization?
I co-founded VetsForward because I saw a need for veterans to have a greater voice in local and national issues in the wake of an administration set on undermining our democratic institutions.
Veterans bring unique perspectives to challenges that often divide our country. Because of the trust we have earned from our time in the military, we can push the country to find common ground. For example, veterans bring a unique perspective on gun safety, in part because of the training we received to respect and handle firearms responsibly.
Through VetsForward, we empower veterans to continue serving their communities and advocating for common-sense policies. It’s about recognizing that the duty to protect doesn’t end when you leave the military—it just takes a different form.
“As a veteran and as a Latino father in Arizona, I want to ensure our communities have leaders willing to stand up and make a difference.”
—Aaron Márquez, U.S Army Veteran and District 5 Arizona State House Representative-Elect
What does defending democratic values at home look like to you? How did you incorporate those values into your campaign?
Defending democratic values at home means ensuring everyone has a voice and a vote. It’s about holding our leaders accountable and ensuring our communities are safe and inclusive. In my campaign, I’ve worked hard to meet people where they are, listen, and build a platform that reflects the needs of all Arizonans, especially communities that might feel forgotten. My approach to campaigning is rooted in respect, transparency, and a commitment to serve.
How did you hear about the Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate distinction program, and why did you decide to apply?
I heard about the Gun Sense Candidate distinction through my work with Everytown and Moms Demand Action. Being part of the Everytown Veterans Advisory Council and volunteering locally with Moms Demand Action connected me to others equally committed to ending gun violence. It was natural to get involved because I know how critical this issue is, especially here in Arizona.
Applying for the Gun Sense Candidate distinction was an easy decision. I believe in responsible gun ownership, which includes comprehensive training, safety measures, and accountability. I learned those values in the military and, as a veteran, I think they should apply to all gun ownership. Earning the Gun Sense Candidate distinction shows my campaign’s commitment to these values. It also signals to voters that I’m serious about creating safer communities for our children and families.
Some people have had questions about what the Gun Sense Candidate distinction means. When I explain that it’s about common-sense steps we can take to reduce gun violence and keep communities safe, I see a lot of people nodding in agreement. Most Arizonans want practical solutions, and that’s what the Gun Sense Candidate distinction represents.
How have constituents in your area responded to your campaign?
The response has been inspiring. I’ve heard from people across District 5 who want common-sense changes and representation they can trust. They care about issues like gun safety, education, and creating jobs that pay a living wage. Knowing that people share my vision for Arizona drives me to work even harder to be a voice for our community.
How has it felt to run for election as a veteran and as a Gun Sense Candidate in Arizona?
Running as a veteran and a Gun Sense Candidate feels right for me because I know how much we need common sense gun laws in Arizona. As a veteran, I bring a perspective on firearms grounded in training, safety, and accountability. I know these principles work. They should extend to civilian life. Running in Arizona, a state with such a strong gun culture, I’ve found people are receptive to my message because it’s rooted in my military experience and respect for our communities.
How does it feel to have won your race, and what are your next steps?
It’s truly an honor to have been elected. I’m grateful to everyone who believed in this campaign and supported our vision for a better Arizona. Winning this seat isn’t just a personal victory—it’s a victory for our communities and the values we share. I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work—and that work starts now.
I plan to reach out to community leaders and to continue listening to our neighbors and ensure they get their voices heard at the legislature. I also plan to focus on policies that bring real and positive change to District 5, especially around public safety, education, and creating opportunities for families to thrive.
As a father, I think about my daughter every time I talk about gun safety. I want safer communities because I want my daughter and all of our kids to grow up without fear. That’s what drives me, both as a veteran and as a Latino father in Arizona: I want to ensure our communities have leaders willing to stand up and make a difference.
Celebrating Other Veteran Victories
On Veterans Day, we commend Aaron Márquez and all other veterans who ran for office in the 2024 general election for their commitment to take common-sense steps to reduce gun violence and keep communities safe.
