TUCSON, AZ (December 3, 2025) -- The City of Tucson is pleased to announce the appointment of Laura Dent as the new Director of Federal and State Relations, effective November 16, 2025.
In this role, Laura will lead the City’s intergovernmental strategy, advancing Tucson’s priorities with state and federal partners and securing resources that strengthen City services and infrastructure.
Laura joins the City with more than 17 years of experience in public affairs, including previous leadership roles in policy development, legislative advocacy, and campaign management. She will serve as Tucson’s primary liaison to Arizona’s congressional delegation, state legislators, and key agency partners, ensuring the City’s voice is heard on issues including infrastructure funding, housing, climate resilience, public safety, and economic development.
Mayor Regina Romero welcomed Dent’s appointment, emphasizing the importance of strong intergovernmental relationships.
“Tucson’s success is tied to our ability to work effectively with our partners in Phoenix and Washington, D.C.,” said Mayor Romero. “Laura’s experience and relationships will help ensure Tucson has a strong advocate for the resources and policy support we need to build a safer, more sustainable, and more equitable city.”
“Laura brings exceptional experience and energy to this position,” said City Manager Tim Thomure. “Her deep understanding of government relations and her passion for our community will be vital as we continue to advocate for Tucson’s residents and ensure our community’s needs are reflected in state and federal policy.”
Dent said she is honored to join the City’s leadership team.
“I am very excited to be returning to the City of Tucson,” Dent said. “I look forward to representing Tucson’s interests at every level of government and working to build strong partnerships that deliver real results for our residents and our community.”
Laura is a double graduate from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Public Administration. She is an experienced organizer, policy analyst, executive, and political advisor. She most recently served as Campaign Manager for Arizona for Abortion Access, a statewide citizens’ initiative that successfully enshrined the right to an abortion in Arizona’s constitution in 2024.
Laura was named one of the Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 40 Under 40 Honorees.
The Director of Federal and State Relations is part of the City Manager’s Office and coordinates closely with departments across the organization to support grant opportunities, policy advocacy, and legislative strategy.