Cecil Ash

Cecil Ash

Ash, Cecil (Republican)

Phone: (480) 307-4224

Email: cecilash@gmail.com

Website: www.cecilash.com

1733 E. Gable Ave., Mesa, AZ 85204

Age: 61 (11/21/48, Mesa, AZ).

Arizona since: Birth.

Occupation: CEO, The HEAL Foundation, since 2005; volunteer UN rep, United Families International, 2005-07; owner, partner and manager, ViewPoint RV & Golf Resort, 1992-04.

Marital: Married (Linda).

Children: 5.

Religious preference: LDS.

Education: J.D., ASU, 1976; B.S., psychology, Brigham Young University, 1973.

Political experience: Member, AZ Finance Committee, Romney for President, 2007-08; member, NYC Finance Committee, Romney for President, 2007; alternate, Republican National Convention, NYC, 2004; Republican Party precinct committeeman since 1994; AZ House since 2009.

Memberships have included: State Bar of Arizona; Arizona & M-C-T Board of Realtors; Franklin Junior High School Parent Advisory Council; Rotary Club in Mesa.

Interests: My children and grandchildren, reading, golf and politics.

Issues:

Political influence: There is no single person who has influenced my political leanings. I believe my political philosophy is based upon the beliefs of the founding fathers. Having studied their thoughts and writings on government, I’m convinced that they chose the best form of government for our country. That government is enshrined in the Constitution. We have strayed from that firm foundation which protected our rights and limited the influence of the government.

Budget recommendations: We must grow out of the current recession by creating a business-friendly environment which will increase jobs and stimulate the economy. Last session the House passed a jobs bill which was not heard by the Senate. The bill may not have been perfect, but it was a beginning. When we return to full employment and a robust economy, revenue will return.

Other concerns: Because education consumes over 50 percent of our budget, it should be a major concern for every legislator. We need to find greater efficiencies so that more money reaches the classroom. This may involve combining districts, reducing administrative staff, and finding new strategies to enhance the educational experience of our students. As chair of the House Interim Committee on Sentencing Reform, I believe mandatory sentencing needs to be re-evaluated and judges given more discretion. Arizona is among the top 10 states in incarcerations, and the budget of the Department of Corrections is approaching a billion dollars. Other states have reduced their prison populations while at the same time reducing crime. Advances in technology can now help us reduce our costs and allow more options with which to rehabilitate inmates.

Fiscal philosophy: I am a “constitutionalist.” The government’s powers and authority to act are limited by the Constitution. The purpose of the Constitution, including the Bill of Rights, is to limit government, not the rights of the people. If legislators wish to do something that is outside the Constitution, rather than ignore it they should offer the people the opportunity to change the Constitution. I believe in the free market. I believe that private industry generally does a better job than the government. Nevertheless, there are certain functions that are clearly the province of the government, including public safety, taxation, and defense. I believe that the best government is local government. In local government, you have more accountability and more responsiveness. You can effect change more readily, whether to start or stop a program.

Background & experience: Growing up on a ranch in southeastern Arizona has given me an understanding and appreciation of rural issues. Having practiced law for 18 years, run a small business for nine years, and participated in the development of a large real estate project have all contributed to a broad background which gives me a broad perspective on a number of issues. In addition, I represented an international 501(c)(3) organization at the United Nations in New York City on social issues. I also currently employ, through a charity organized by my son and his friends, 10 health service employees in the slums of Hyderabad, India. This gives me an appreciation for the problems of the poor and the health services industry.

Proposition 100 sales tax: This was an extremely difficult decision for me as I listened to individuals and groups that I respected on both sides of this issue. I did not come out publicly for one position or the other before the election because I did not make my decision until the weekend before the vote. Ultimately, I voted in favor of Prop. 100 and put up a “Yes on 100” sign the day before the election. Several reasons convinced me of the need for the “Yes” vote. First of all, as a Legislature we had cut over $2 billion already. Had we been able to find more cuts that made sense, I believe we would have cut more during our session. However, state revenue has continued to decline and additional cuts would have been devastating, even crippling to both our economy and education. I believe there are some legitimate state functions that are not being done properly for lack of revenue.

Pro-life/pro-choice: Abortion should not be used as birth control. I believe abortion is justified only in the instances of rape and/or incest, or to prevent the death of the mother.

One last thing: My wife and I have reared five children who are now adults. I have sold my business and am retired. These two factors allow me to spend full time at the Legislature. I have an open-door policy. I am always willing to meet with and listen to constituents. I love Arizona and want to make it a great state for future generations.

Campaign Finance: public.