Heredia quits as head of Ariz. Dems

Somerton native Luis Heredia has stepped down as head of the Arizona Democratic Party to begin what he calls a new stage in his career in politics and public affairs.

Heredia, executive director of the state Democratic Party since 2009, has assumed the position of governmental affairs director for Tempe-based Torres Consulting Law Group, a firm that offers a variety of legal, consulting services and public relations services to clients in the public and private sectors.

Heredia, whose resignation took effect Jan. 1, had served as executive director since 2009.

“I'm not getting out of government; I will remain active,” said Heredia. “I need to focus more on my professional life, to embark on a new stage.”

Heredia, 37, said the Democratic Party is now stronger politically in Arizona than when he assumed the party reins 43 months ago.

“I believe that the elections results from 2010 and 2012 are satisfactory. We have more senators and representatives in the state Legislature, and we are represented (by more Democrats) at the federal level. But we have also succeeded in bringing new blood into the party.”

Prior to being named the party's executive director, Heredia served as a Yuma County representative for U.S. Rep. Raul Grijalva and as a spokesman for Union Pacific Railroad.

Today a resident of the Phoenix suburb of Gilbert, Heredia also is a former member of the Somerton Elementary School District governing board.

Heredia, who holds a bachelor's degree in history from Arizona State University and a master's degree in public administration from the University of Indiana, said his new job will keep him involved in politics and with his party.

He does not rule out the possibility of one day running for public office himself.

“I don't discount it. I have the contacts and the experience, and I have not lost contact with the community.”