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Draft Dean Martin for governor campaign begins
An anonymous Web site seeking to draft state Treasurer Dean Martin into the 2010 governor's race is up and running, signaling what could be an early start to a Republican primary campaign that many observers expect to be crowded - whether Gov. Jan Brewer runs or not.
Brewer signs environment bill, but no action on rest of budget
Gov. Jan Brewer signed one bill from the budget package the Legislature sent to her desk, but the crucial questions of whether she will sign or veto the rest of the bills won't be answered until next week.
Are struggling community banks prepared for a new threat?
Most community banks in Arizona are losing money, lending is down, and a veteran banker concedes that every day is a challenge. It was a little too challenging for two Arizona banks, which were closed by state and federal regulators Aug. 14. A third bank is operating under federal orders to improve what were found to be “unsafe and unsound banking practices.”
Stimulus money for schools might be gone by 2011
Any budget deal reached by Gov. Jan Brewer and the Legislature might come with a big warning label for Arizona educators - enjoy your stimulus money while it lasts, because it won't last long.
Misunderstanding blamed for delay of K-12 stimulus money
A misunderstanding regarding federal requirements delayed the implementation of a quarter-billion dollars in federal stimulus money for education. Gov. Jan Brewer submitted a request on June 25 for $250 million that did not meet federal guidelines for the money, according to the United States Department of Education.
Brewer will get budget, sans sales tax referral
The fate of two-months-overdue budget aimed at solving a $3.2 billion deficit now rests in the hands of Gov. Jan Brewer, as lawmakers delivered the plan to her eight weeks into a special legislative session called specifically to address the financial problems.
Arpaio responds to racial profiling allegations, SCA, 287(g) changes
Probably no public figure in Arizona inspires more devotion and loyalty from his supporters and more hatred from his critics than Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio. In a revealing Q&A session, the feisty lawman denies racial profiling, says 287(g) changes won't affect his operations, clears up his relationship with Janet Napolitano and refuses to discuss SCA.
Verschoor to head Arizona Budget Commission
Senate President Bob Burns has appointed a Gilbert Republican to head a new commission aimed at streamlining the organization, operation and costs of state agencies. Sen. Thayer Verschoor will lead the Arizona Budget Commission for the duration of the 49th Legislature. No other members were announced.
State spending tracks higher than last year
So far, Arizona has spent more money this fiscal year than it did during the same period last year. Between July 1 and Aug. 17, the state spent $164 million more than it did during the same period in 2008, according to figures provided by the state Treasure’s Office.
No-names for governor
The political rumor mill is churning out names at a record pace for next year's gubernatorial race. But Robert Graham is not generally among them. Graham, a political neophyte and businessman who is seeking the Republican nomination, is one of 11 people who have registered as candidates for the 2010 governor's race.
Courting Democrats – one at a time
Running out of time and options, Republican leadership in the Senate has turned its attention to a handful of Democrats to cajole their support for a ballot referral on a sales tax increase.
Next stop for tax repeal: Governor’s Office
The House of Representatives has joined the Senate in approving a measure that would eliminate the only statewide property tax. The floor vote came a day after a House panel passed the bill.
