While the actual mapping was done in 2011, this past year proved that the fight over redistricting takes many forms, with Arizona’s struggles over political boundaries shifting from the drawing room to the courtroom.

There was never a moment in 2012 when some Arizona office holder wasn’t under indictment, under investigation or at least under suspicion.



Much of the action was centered at the Capitol.

Arizona politics not only kept courts busy in 2012, but led to a landmark case in June when the U.S. Supreme Court gutted the state’s most prominent immigration policy.

As 2012 comes to a close, some Arizona politicos have reached new heights of prominence and power. Others saw once-promising careers hit the wall.



Jeff Flake and Kyrsten Sinema gained influence and stature in the nation’s capital, while Andy Biggs reached the pinnacle of power in the Arizona Senate.



Meanwhile, former Senate President Russell Pearce and his successor, Sen. Steve Pierce, fell from grace, while a slew of Republican candidates once again failed in their bids to reach the halls of Congress.

While the mood at the state Capitol this past year might be best described as riotous, 2012 — the Chinese Year of the Dragon — was marked with fewer gaffes, catfights and over-the-top name calling among Arizona’s political elite.

This year’s most outstanding quips, gibes and utterances.