Recall Election To Be Held For Phoenix City Councilman Michael Nowakowski

As was announced Thursday night by the Urban Phoenix Project PAC, a May recall election will be held for Phoenix City Councilman Michael Nowakowski of District 7.

A Facebook post from the group announced that the City Clerk’s Office informed them that their recall petition was successful in triggering the election. 

The post also stated that over 50 volunteers assisted in the effort that resulted in over 2,300 petition signatures. 


Nowakowski was accused by the group of “neglecting our neighborhoods, abusing his office, putting critical transit programs at risk, discriminating against the LGBTQ members of our community, and using cronyism to fill city positions.” 

Following a 2016 video showed Nowakowski making anti-gay comments to a group of pastors, a group asked for his resignation. 

He was recorded decrying gay marriage and transgender rights while speaking to the group about the debate surrounding the opening prayer at council meetings. 

Following the video being uploaded to YouTube, Nowakowski apologized and directed people towards his voting record that showed he stood by the LGBTQ community.

“I am disappointed that a radial special interest group, who’s (sic) singular agenda to suppress the voices of District 7 residents is leading this senseless and costly recall,” Nowakowski said in a statement. “I remain faithful and committed to the diversity of needs of our neighborhoods and families of District 7.”