What happens when doing what's right for voters puts you at odds with your own political party?

Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes faced that question when his office approved a name change request from Arizona's independent party despite political opposition. For Fontes, the decision reflected a larger belief: public officials have a responsibility to uphold the Constitution and serve every voter fairly, regardless of political affiliation.

In this episode of New Frontiers, Paul Johnson sits down with Adrian Fontes to discuss Arizona elections, the responsibilities of the Secretary of State, and the challenges of representing voters who don't necessarily identify with either major political party.

Throughout the conversation, Fontes shares what he believes Republicans and Democrats are getting right and wrong, why politicians are often reluctant to challenge their own party, and what it takes to lead with integrity.

But the conversation goes beyond politics. Fontes reflects on the lessons he learned serving in the United States Marine Corps, how his upbringing shaped his respect for the Constitution, and why listening to people with different political beliefs is essential to effective leadership.

With Arizona's 2026 elections approaching, Fontes reflects on losing his 2020 reelection bid for Maricopa County Recorder, the importance of a peaceful transfer of power, and the role of public trust in our democratic institutions.

Can Arizona move beyond partisan politics and restore trust in government?

Hear Adrian Fontes's perspective and decide for yourself.

Have a question for Adrian Fontes? Leave it in the comments. We want to hear what you think.

Chapters:

00:00 - Why Every Voter Deserves Fair Treatment

06:35 - Introducing Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes

07:22 - What the Marine Corps Taught Adrian Fontes About Leadership

12:07 - Adrian Fontes Reflects on His Best and Worst Days in the Marines

16:18 - An Oath to the Constitution, Not a Political Leader

18:10 - What Shaped Adrian Fontes' Belief in American Democracy

22:22 - America's Pursuit of a More Perfect Union

25:02 - Respecting People You Politically Disagree With

29:38 - Why Good Leaders Must Be Willing to Listen

32:16 - Why Fontes Supported Arizona's Independent Party Despite Political Risks

33:59 - Putting Integrity Before Political Interests

37:28 - Why Politicians Are Afraid to Challenge Their Own Party

40:05 - Public Office Is a Responsibility, Not an Identity

41:53 - What Republicans and Democrats Get Right and Wrong

46:32 - Why Arizona's Secretary of State Election Matters

49:36 - Final Remarks and Conclusion