Jennifer D. Benally facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jennifer D. Benally
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Member of the Arizona House of Representatives from the 7th district |
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In office January 5, 2015 – January 9, 2017 Serving with Albert Hale
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Preceded by | Jamescita Peshlakai |
Succeeded by | Wenona Benally |
Judge of the Kayenta Judicial Court[Usurped!] | |
In office 1998–2014 |
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Appointed by | Navajo Nation Council |
Succeeded by | Malcolm P. Begay |
Personal details | |
Born | Albuquerque, New Mexico |
Political party | Democratic |
Residence | Tuba City, Arizona |
Alma mater | Northern Arizona University |
Jennifer D. Benally is a person who used to represent her area in the government of Arizona. She was a state representative for the 7th district. Ms. Benally is a member of the Democratic Party, which is one of the main political groups in the United States. She was first chosen to be part of the Arizona House of Representatives in 2015. The Arizona House of Representatives is where laws are made for the state of Arizona. Ms. Benally decided not to run for re-election in 2016.
Early Life and Education
Jennifer D. Benally was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Her family moved to Arizona in 1957. She is part of the Zuni Edgewater Clan and was born for the Tangle Root Clan, which are important parts of her heritage.
Ms. Benally studied at Northern Arizona University. After finishing her education, she worked as a police officer for the Navajo Nation. She served in this role from 1982 to 1990. Later, in 1992, she became a prosecutor in Tuba City. A prosecutor is a lawyer who works for the government to bring legal cases against people accused of crimes.
After six years as a prosecutor, Ms. Benally became a judge. She served as a district court judge for the Navajo Nation. This means she made decisions in legal cases for the Navajo people.
Political Career and Elections
Jennifer D. Benally became a state representative for Arizona's 7th district. This role involves representing the people of her district in the state government.
In the 2014 election, Ms. Benally ran for office. She and another candidate, Albert Hale, won against Joshua Lavar Butler in the Democratic primary election. A primary election is when members of a political party choose which candidates will represent them in the main election. After winning the primary, Ms. Benally and Albert Hale did not have any opponents in the general election. This means they were the only candidates, so they won their seats.
Family Life
Jennifer D. Benally is married to Kent Benally. Together, they have a large family. They have 10 children and 14 grandchildren.