In the heart of Arizona, a passionate voice has emerged—Priya Sundareshan, an attorney, educator, and environmental advocate who now serves as a transformative leader in the Arizona Senate. Representing District 18 since January 2023, Priya Sundareshan, Arizona Senate member, is not just another elected official; she is a trailblazer determined to bridge the gap between science, policy, and community.
Her journey is not simply one of professional milestones; it’s a living testament to the power of public service grounded in principle, intellect, and purpose. Raised in Tucson, where she now represents the very streets and schools that shaped her, Priya’s life story is one of returning home, not just to live, but to lead.
Priya Sundareshan: Roots in Tucson, Vision for Arizona
Priya Sundareshan’s life begins in the sun-soaked desert landscapes of Tucson, Arizona. Growing up in Legislative District 18, her childhood was rich with the benefits of a robust public education and a deep connection to the outdoors. These early influences would become the backbone of her political platform—defending education, protecting natural resources, and expanding civic engagement.
Her parents, Indian American immigrants, instilled in her the values of perseverance, education, and service. From a young age, Priya was inspired not only to dream big but also to work hard and give back to the community that had nurtured her.
From Engineering at MIT to Environmental Law
Priya Sundareshan’s academic journey mirrors her multifaceted strengths. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 2006. But rather than stopping there, she returned to her home state, pursuing both a Juris Doctor and a Master of Science in Natural Resource Economics from the University of Arizona.
This rare combination of law, science, and economics positioned her uniquely to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time—climate change, water rights, and environmental policy.
Priya Sundareshan: Fighting for the Planet and Democracy
Before entering the Arizona Senate, Priya was already making waves in the advocacy space. She served as an attorney for the Environmental Defence Fund, championing sustainable resource management and using legal tools to fight for clean air, clean water, and climate justice. Her previous legal work with Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman in Washington, D.C., equipped her with the skills to navigate complex regulatory landscapes.
But Priya’s commitment didn’t stop at environmental issues. She became a fierce voting rights advocate, leading voter protection efforts and redistricting engagement for the Arizona Democratic Party. Her understanding of the deep connection between democracy and environmental stewardship informs her policy goals—ensuring fair elections, equitable representation, and transparent governance.
2022: A Defining Election Year
In 2022, redistricting turned Arizona’s 18th legislative district into a new political battleground. Priya seized the moment, facing off against seasoned legislator Morgan Abraham in the Democratic primary. Her message—science-driven policy, sustainability, and democratic equity—resonated with voters. She won the primary with 55.6% of the vote and later defeated Republican candidate Stan Caine in the general election.
Her victory wasn’t just a win at the ballot box—it was a powerful statement: that Arizonans are ready for leaders who blend expertise with empathy, and vision with action.
Leadership in the Arizona Senate
Today, Priya Sundareshan, Arizona Senate leader, serves as Ranking Member on two pivotal committees: Elections and Natural Resources/Energy/Water. She also contributes her voice to the Government Committee.
Her role isn’t limited to legislating. As Director of the Natural Resource Use and Management Clinic at the University of Arizona College of Law, she mentors students to think critically about law and sustainability, ensuring the next generation is equipped to take on tomorrow’s challenges.
A Mother’s Mission for a Sustainable Future
Beyond the halls of power, Priya is a mother of two young children. Her motivation is deeply personal: she wants her children—and all children—to inherit a world that is just, clean, and full of opportunity.
That’s why she fights not only for climate resilience and public education, but also for science-based governance. In an age of misinformation and political polarisation, she remains a steady, data-driven voice for reason and reform.
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