In Defeat, Dan Saban Thinks His Candidacy "Energized" Voters

It's pretty much over for Dan Saban this election year.

“We fought the right fight at the right time for the right reasons,” Saban told everyone. “We have energized people who would never vote in this type of election.”

By Niki D'Andrea

November 4, 2008

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By Niki D'Andrea

Dan Saban was disheartened, but said he's glad he waged a tough campaign against Sheriff Joe Arpaio.

"We have energized people who would never vote in this type of election,” Saban told a crowd assembled at his Gilbert home on election night.

A disheartened Dan Saban addresses the media in front of his home.

With most of the votes counted, Sheriff Joe Arpaio was leading Saban 57 percent to 41 percent.

“I’m physically and emotionally exhausted,” Saban said. “It’s been an amazing two years.”

But Saban says he considers his campaign a victory, of sorts. He feels it brought new energy to a disenfranchised local electorate.

“When you can take on a challenge like this, against an incumbent who uses the media at every turn at taxpayers’ expense, and you get outspent five to one, it’s a victory.”

Saban says he's not sure yet if he'll run again. His only immediate plans are to take a bike ride to Laughlin, Nevada.

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Niki D'Andrea has covered subjects including drug culture, women's basketball, pirate radio stations, Scottsdale staycations, and fine wine. She has worked at both New Times and Phoenix Magazine, and is now a freelancer.

Contact: Niki D'Andrea