Reyes, Fernandez criticize Biggs’ cost-hiking policies at Yuma stop

Yuma County Supervisor Tony Reyes and Arizona Democratic Party chair Charlene Fernandez used a Yuma stop of the “Biggs Costs Tour” to argue that Rep. Andy Biggs’ agenda would hit local families in the pocketbook. Biggs, a Republican running for governor, was the target of their criticism as border trade, food prices and Medicaid access moved to the center of the race.

Reyes and Fernandez spoke during the tour on July 28 and denounced Biggs’ cost-hiking agenda. Their critique focused on tariffs that could ripple through the border economy and health care changes that could leave families with less coverage.

Tariffs are the clearest local test. In a county tied closely to cross-border commerce and the produce supply chain, a 2026 study on the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement found that tariff reductions were associated with lower U.S. consumer food prices. If tariffs move the other way, Yuma shoppers and farm-linked businesses are among the first to feel it.

Medicaid is the other pressure point. KFF expects changes in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to cause coverage loss for many current enrollees and reduce federal funding for Medicaid, putting new financial pressure on states and health care providers. Families relying on Medicaid for routine care, specialists and long-term coverage could face higher out-of-pocket costs or fewer options if those changes are carried through.

Biggs has also used Yuma appearances to pitch tax cuts and water policy, including a promise to zero out Arizona income tax and reopen the Yuma Desalting Plant.