Former Arizona House Democratic leader appointed to Phoenix area vacancy

(The Center Square) – Former Arizona House Democratic Leader Dr. Eric Meyer will fill the vacant seat in Legislative District 4.

Former Rep. Laura Terech left the Phoenix area seat shortly after the legislative session ended in June, and she now works at the Arizona Secretary of State’s office.

"I am so excited and honored to be serving the constituents of Legislative District 4," Meyer said in a statement on Monday. "I enjoyed my years of prior service in the House and look forward to responding to the needs of my constituents and to the issues facing all Arizonans. I am humbled to have this opportunity and understand the importance and magnitude of my appointed position.

Terech was the seventh Democratic exit from the House this session, as she and most others left for other job opportunities. The only notable exception was former Rep. Jevin Hodge , who was a replacement pick for a prior vacancy, and he resigned after six weeks due to past sexual misconduct allegations surfacing.

As for Meyer, he was the Democratic leader in the chamber from 2014 until 2016, and he was first elected to the House in 2008.

However, Meyer’s role in the House will likely be limited, as he is not running for the seat in November and the regular legislative session has concluded. The two Democrats who are running for the seat, Kelli Butler and Karen Gresham, were the other two names given to the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors by the Democratic precinct committeemen of the district. Republican Rep. Matt Gress currently holds the other seat in LD-4, and Democratic Sen. Christine Marsh represents the district in the other chamber. It is considered one of the most competitive districts in the state, and it could determine the control of the legislature.

"I've served with Dr. Meyer, seen his commitment to public service in action, and am thrilled to welcome him back to our caucus," House Democratic Leader Lupe Contreras said in a statement. "He was an effective and forward-looking leader, and a staunch voice for Arizona’s public schools, our healthcare safety net and our environment. All three of the candidates put forward for consideration – including Kelli Butler and Karen Gresham – were stellar choices. Even if it's temporary, our caucus and our constituents will benefit with Dr. Meyer back in the fold."

LD4 Rep. Matt Gress, R-Phoenix, welcomed the new lawmaker.

"Today, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors appointed Dr. Eric Meyer to fill the vacant State House seat in Legislative District 4," he said in a statement. "Dr. Meyer brings a wealth of experience back to the Legislature, having served in the House for eight years. His strong ties to the community and passion for public service will ensure continuity for our constituents through the end of the year.

I look forward to working with Dr. Meyer to advance the interests of Legislative District 4."

Meyer is expected to be sworn in by the end of this week, according to a House Democratic spokesman.