At Arizona centennial, some things haven’t changed
Distrust of the federal government in far-away Washington and a desire to rein in officeholders closer to home — those widely held views were just as prominent at statehood 100 years ago as they are today, according to a prominent Phoenix attorney who is co-authoring a book on Arizona's formation as a state.
Capitol Quotes: Feb. 10, 2012
This week's most outstanding quips, jibes and utterances.
Arizona submits congressional map to US for review
A federal review of Arizona's map of new congressional districts for compliance with the Voting Rights Act is about to start.
Redistricting was hijacked by Democrats — give voters a chance to fix the process
In ordinary circumstances, the most politically safe and easy course of action is to do nothing. On the other hand, it’s especially risky to foment actions that would alter the outcomes of voter initiatives.
In the case of the Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission, it’s important to conclude one way or another whether the intent and desires of the voters have been violated. I[...]
Brewer precedent may spell doom for union bills
Friends and foes of the anti-union bills working their way through the Legislature may want to look at Gov. Jan Brewer’s record with public safety unions before they dub her the Scott Walker of the West.
Unions forego all-out battle with Legislature — for now
Public unions are avoiding a forceful confrontation with conservative lawmakers who are pushing for a slew of anti-union proposals – for now.
Instead of declaring an open war by organizing massive protests at the state Capitol — a tactic adopted by labor unions in Wisconsin who faced a similar threat last year — unions here have had a more tempered response.
Senate approves bill making lunch program optional
A proposal to overturn a requirement for some schools to participate in a national program providing free and low-cost meals to students is advancing to the state House after Senators approved it Thursday.
Grijalva won’t face rematch of 2010 campaign
The Republican who gave Democratic Rep. Raul Grijalva a run for his money in 2010 won't try to unseat him again this year.
Board of Regents appointee’s remarks on gays stir controversy in Senate
The state Senate has voted to confirm Republican Gov. Jan Brewer's appointment of Jay Heiler to the Arizona Board of Regents, with Democrats saying they're troubled by his past remarks about gays.
Redistricting commission repeal clears committee
A proposed referral that would ask voters whether they wanted to eliminate the Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission took its first step toward the November ballot Wednesday.
Senate committee to hear resolution to dismantle redistricting commission
An Arizona Senate committee on Wednesday is to consider a Republican proposal to put redistricting back in the hands of state lawmakers and the governor.
Anti-union measures advancing quickly
An array of proposals that would significantly weaken public unions is advancing quickly and is now a step closer to getting the nod of the full Senate.