Juan Mendez (politician)

Juan Jose Mendez (born May 18, 1985) is an American politician and state representative from Arizona. He is a member of the Democratic Party.

Personal life and education

Mendez attended Tolleson Union High School, and received an associate degree from Phoenix College. He later received a bachelor's degree from Arizona State University, majoring in political science. Mendez describes Cesar Chavez as the Arizonan political figure he admires most.

Political career

Mendez was elected to the Arizona House of Representatives in 2012. He serves on the Insurance and Retirement Committee and the Reform and Human Services Committee.

Mendez supports closing "tax loopholes" for out-of-state corporations, raising education funding, and more restrictions on gifts to legislators. He opposes Arizona SB 1070 and allowing guns in schools.

Mendez gained national attention in 2013 for choosing to open a House meeting with a secular speech, rather than a traditional religious prayer. During his speech, Mendez quoted astronomer Carl Sagan.

Mendez serves on the City of Phoenix Human Services Advisory Committee, and manages the nonprofit Community Voice Mail, an organization devoted to helping the impoverished.