Native of Bisbee, Arizona. Son of a miner, mother was a naturalized citizen. Worked at Fort Huachuca for 14 years before becoming a full-time pastor at Grace Chapel Benson in 1988. Also served on Benson City Council. BA in Theological Studies from School of Bible Theology. Appointed to AZ House in 2021.
LD
Serving
About
Family & Heritage
Native of Bisbee, Arizona. Born on Easter Sunday, April 2, 1956. Grew up on a small quarter and appaloosa horse ranch in Bisbee. Father was an underground miner. Mother was a naturalized citizen. Married to Mary Alice Diaz for over 51 years. Has three children, 11 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
Political Career
Before Politics
Graduated from Bisbee High School. Worked at Fort Huachuca for 14 years. Became full-time senior pastor at Grace Chapel Benson in 1988. President of Grace Christian Center Inc., a nonprofit organization. Principal of Grace Christian Academy. President of the Benson/San Pedro Valley Chamber of Commerce for five years (two terms). Faculty member at Cochise College Benson Branch for 3 years as a professor. Served on the Benson City Council for four years.
Education
BA in Theological Studies, School of Bible Theology, San Jacinto, California
Key Issues & Priorities
Education with parental choice options
Sustainable water policy with local control
Support for agriculture, mining, and outdoor recreation
Constitutional rights and biblical governance principles
Law enforcement support