For the first time, the Maricopa County Democratic Party fielded a contested primary for county attorney.

As of late Tuesday evening, Julie Gunnigle had garnered nearly triple the votes of each of her competitors, Will Knight and Bob McWhirter.

Gunnigle says she believes the community has spoken in favor of a reform candidate.

“People are hungry for change in Maricopa County, and they’re ready for something different," said Gunnigle. "I think that’s why we saw so many people running this time.”

She says hundreds of volunteers sending texts and making phone calls was the secret to keeping up direct voter contact during a pandemic.

Gunnigle will face incumbent and Republican nominee Allister Adel in the general election.

→ Latest Results From Maricopa County Recorder's Office