PERSON: Al Melvin

State Senator

Albert Anthony "Al" Melvin (born November 3, 1944 in Helena, Montana) is a Republican member of the Arizona Senate, serving since 2008.

Melvin earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1969 from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and earned his MBA in International Management from the American Graduate School in 1972. In 1994 he received his diploma from the U.S. Naval War College. He then served as a Captain in the United States Navy (1997-1999) and a Ship's Officer for the American Maritime Officers (1999-2002). In 2002, he became a teacher for the University of Arizona and a consultant for the American Quality International Consulting. He served as a member of the Saddlebrook Republican Club, Pima County Republic Club, and the National Republican Committee.

Melvin ran for the Arizona Senate in 2006 in the 26th Legislative District, beating incumbent Republican Senator Toni Hellon in the primary but was defeated by Democrat Charlene Pesquiera in the general election. He ran for the same seat again in 2008. Pesquiera did not seek re-election and Melvin beat Democrat Cheryl Cage. He was re-elected in 2010. After Arizona redistricted its legislative districts in 2012, he decided to run for the new 11th Legislative District. His opponent was Democrat Jo Holt, whom Melvin defeated. Melvin has declared that he is running for Governor of Arizona in 2014.

-- Wikipedia