Meet John

Meet John Winchester

John is a lifelong Tucsonan, husband, father, and minister. He has spent his life serving others — from leading the Northwest YMCA to working in higher education and community development.

John is a problem-solver, not a career politician, and he’s running for the Arizona House to bring results-driven conservative leadership to Legislative District 17.

Rooted in Tucson

John was born and raised in Tucson and is number six of eight siblings — the oldest of two boys. He grew up in a church on the West Side, where he now serves as a minister.

John’s family has always been active in community and political engagement. His first experience in politics came in high school on the George W. Bush campaign, knocking doors and making phone calls — an experience that taught him not to shy away from hard work and long hours.

Shaped by his mother and his faith, John was raised with a strong work ethic and a deep sense of duty to his community. Volunteering became a way of life: he ministered in Arizona state prisons for eight years, performed in nursing homes, and played trumpet with GRM.

Today, his children are carrying on that legacy through patriotic performances and service projects in downtown Tucson.

Service and Community Work

John worked construction from age 14 through his early college years, helping realtors close homes and using those skills to assist friends and neighbors. He helped renovate the local YMCA facility, saving the organization significant money.

Over the years, John has stayed deeply involved in community life, from Tucson Dancing with the Stars to supporting the Tucson Girls Chorus. Professionally, he has focused on non-profits and higher education. Classically trained in music, John believes being well-rounded means taking on work that challenges you — and using every skill not just for passion, but for service.

Education and Philosophy of Government

John holds a Master’s in Public Administration and is completing a degree in political philosophy. He also completed a political studies course at Oxford. His approach to government is grounded in the ideas that shaped America’s founding — principles of individual freedom, responsibility, and limited government.

John has served on multiple boards and policy groups, including Greater Tucson Leadership, Southern Arizona Leadership Council, the Vail Chamber, the Chamber of Southern Arizona, and regional public-policy councils. Through the YMCA’s Youth & Government program, he helps connect students with public officials, and he further sharpened his constitutional perspective through the Patriot Academy.

Beyond Public Service

John describes himself as a creature of habit who loves working out, traveling, action movies, and celebrating the seasons — especially Christmas. He enjoys shopping for quality clothing, fresh Christmas trees, and attending community events. And he’s a lifelong Wildcat fan.

“I’m running because conservative principles work — when we put them to work. That means responsible spending, strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and a limited government. Our families deserve leaders who deliver results, not rhetoric — and that’s the kind of leadership I’ll bring to the Arizona House.”

John Winchester

Strengthen Arizona’s Future

Strong schools. Skilled workers. Informed citizens.

John knows education is the foundation of opportunity. As a father and lifelong learner, he supports empowering parents and teachers, strengthening career pathways, and preparing the next generation to thrive—whether through college, the trades, or entrepreneurship.

He believes every child deserves access to a great education, which is why he supports school choice and giving families the freedom to choose the learning environment that best fits their child’s needs, from neighborhood public schools to charter, private, or homeschool options.