Lightning Round: Five Questions for Edgar Soto

Lightning Round with Edgar Soto, Candidate for LD17 Senator

M & M: Tell us about your first job.

Edgar: My first job was at Foot Locker in Tucson Mall. It was a summer job before I left for college, and I really enjoyed helping people find the right pair of shoes and simply talking with customers. Looking back, it may have been my first lesson in listening to people, understanding what they need, and providing good service.

M & M: So now you’re running for a very different job – Senator representing LD17 in the Arizona State Legislature. If elected, what will make you successful?

Edgar: What will make me successful is my ability to connect with people, find common ground, build strong teams, and solve problems. I have spent most of my career bringing people together and serving others. The issues may be different at the Legislature, but the fundamentals are the same: listen carefully, treat people with respect, and remain focused on getting results for the people you represent.

M & M: What has surprised you most during this campaign?

Edgar: I would not say it has surprised me, but what has inspired me most is seeing how deeply people understand that our democracy belongs to all of us – and that each of us can make a difference. I am humbled by the time, energy, and faith people have invested in this campaign. Their support strengthens my commitment to work hard, represent them well, and never forget who public service is supposed to serve.

M & M: What is your favorite food and where do you get it?

Edgar: Pepperoni pizza thin crust with light cheese from Grimaldi’s. It is simple, classic, and always a good choice. Also, Bianchi’s pizza; their wings are the best. And if I’m going to get a steak, Charro steak. The steak is excellent, and the sides are amazing. I usually go to the one on Oracle.

M & M: What makes you laugh?

Edgar: Believe it or not, videos of people playfully scaring one another always make me laugh. You can usually tell when the reaction is genuine, and there is something about that completely unplanned moment that gets me every time – although I probably would not laugh quite as hard if I were the one being scared!

Marian Hill & Melvina Strijdonk