Landmark Federal Court Ruling Favors No Labels Party of Arizona and Opens the Door for Independent Candidates Across the State

Paul Johnson named Chairman of the Party to lead new movement of political inclusion

The No Labels Party of Arizona recently received a favorable ruling in federal court (No Labels Party of AZ v. Fontes), rewriting the state’s political playbook by giving independent and unaffiliated voters, and candidates, unprecedented access to run for office without political party gatekeepers standing in the way.

Following the groundbreaking decision by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, the No Labels Party of Arizona became officially a viable option for candidates in every legislative and congressional district.

Former Phoenix Mayor Paul Johnson has been appointed Chairman of the group and will work to reenergize the Arizona No Labels Party, including outreach to members about changing its name. Johnson brings decades of bipartisan and independent reform-oriented leadership to a new, energized movement committed to empowering independent-minded candidates and voters.

“For too long, Arizona’s political system has shut out independent voices, voters and candidates,” said Johnson. “Although we are proud of the Party’s roots being in the national No Labels Party, and we deeply share their values, independence allows the No Labels Party of Arizona to focus on eliminating the discriminatory practices that have prohibited nonpartisan candidates from participating in elections.”

Arizona law requires independent and unaffiliated candidates to collect tens of thousands more signatures to run for office, compared to candidates from the two major political parties, for example. This intentional barrier exponentially increases the cost for Independent candidates or those not aligned with the Republican or Democratic parties. The law was specifically created to prevent non-partisan candidates from running for office. “That’s not democracy—it’s a rigged system,” added Johnson.

Sarah Smallhouse, also joined the group’s State Committee. She agrees with the court affirming that the right to run belongs to voters, not political party leaders. The No Labels Party of Arizona is welcoming all Arizonans who want to run for office, serve their communities, and do so without needing the blessing of, what is now effectively, a two-party monopoly. Arizonans are registering in ever greater numbers as Independents, while membership in the Democratic and Republican parties is in decline. It is the right time to give all those who want to lead a chance to compete on a level playing field in Arizona.

“Our group—many of whom led the statewide Fair Elections initiative to open Arizona’s primaries—has always believed that more competition produces better candidates and ultimately better policy solutions,” Smallhouse added. “This ruling, combined with our commitment to open elections, where all candidates and voters have the same rights and requirements, finally gives us the vehicle to do just that.”

An Invitation to Arizona’s Brightest Minds

This political movement opens the door to a new kind of politics, post partisan, calling on Arizona’s brightest minds to lead it, regardless of party label. Those who are registered with the Republican or Democratic party may also compete as candidates in the new party.

“We stand for inclusion. Smart, principled leaders in every district—business owners, educators, engineers, veterans, healthcare professionals, students, and more—are invited to step forward and consider running for office under this fresh banner of political independence,” stated Johnson.“We’re not here to play the old partisan game,” Johnson added. “We’re here to encourage new ideas and real competition, offer more choices, and provide a platform for those in Arizona who are tired of tribal politics.”

Johnson emphasized that this effort will be led from the ground up. “We’re asking anyone who shares our vision to get involved early and be part of building something new—a new political era has begun,” he said. “Email me at paul@optamerican.com—start by suggesting a new name for the party. Those who reach out will be foundational in shaping the direction and decisions of this movement.”

Engagement Efforts

Registered independent voters, frustrated moderates, and those who believe in solutions over slogans now have a place where their voice and vote counts, and where they can run for office and lead. The No Labels Party of Arizona will have candidates running in the 2026 elections. Arizona residents can register or update their party affiliation today at: azmvdnow.gov with the No Labels Party of Arizona and become part of the statewide movement to bring more sanity, integrity, and competition back to public decision-making in Arizona.

Polling is set to begin in the coming weeks to No Labels Party of Arizona members to obtain input on major statewide issues, which will ensure the group represents the people, not just the political class.

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“We’re not here to play the old partisan game,” Chairman Paul Johnson added. “We’re here to encourage new ideas and real competition, offer more choices, and provide a platform for those in Arizona who are tired of tribal politics.”