About Me

My name is Lupe Chavira Contreras. I was raised in Cashion (Avondale) to Manuel and Oralia Contreras.  I have 2 older sisters, Juanita and Mechi and 1 older brother Manuel Jr.  

I attended Littleton Elementary School and Underdown Junior High. I then went on to attend Westview High School where I was part of the first Graduating class in 1993. 

In high school during the summer months, I worked in the fields across the Southwest Valley picking onions and melons. It was during this time that I really learned the value of hard work. At 19 years old, I was offered a job at the Law Office of Ben Miranda, unbeknownst to me, this man would forever change my life not just at that time but years later. After working for Ben Miranda, I went off to work for two other law offices and then to my current home of Pomeroy and Associates where I have been for 26 years as the Director of New of Business. 

I have been part of the Arizona State Legislature since my first election in November 2012. I served 2 years (2013-2014) as a State Representative and 8 years (2014-2022) in the Senate. I was re-elected as State Representative to serve 2023-2024. During my tenure in the legislature, I was selected by the Democratic Caucus as the Minority Co-Whip, Assistant Minority Leader, and most recently Minority Leader. I credit my accomplishments in the legislature to many people, my parents that I value and have showed me so much throughout my life.  All of the educators in our public schools that have taught me that anything is possible.  Finally, the man who started my journey with my first job in a suit and tie at 19 years old,  Ben Miranda.  He was my mentor that encouraged me to run for office.  He saw something in me that I didn't and its because of him that I am where I am today.   

I currently reside in Avondale with my wife, Sara, and three children, Lupe Jr., Violeta, and Amalia. My wife, Sara Contreras is originally from Ajo, Arizona but has called the west valley her home since she was 2 years old. My wife attended elementary school in the Pendergast District. She is also a Westview Graduate.  Our children attend Littleton School District and Tolleson High School District.  My wife is a Board Member for Littleton School District and employed with Tolleson High School District. 

So much of the LD22 community is part of me personally. It is where I was raised, where I went to school, where our history goes back 5 generations, and where I am choosing to raise my own family. LD22 has always been home to both my wife and I. We say it is our home, because it is, and has been since we were children. It’s not a place that I claim, it’s a place that has claimed us. 

I take pride in representing my community because it’s the people in my community that have chosen me to be their voice. I will continue to serve so long as my constituents choose to have me as their voice.