by Matthew Holloway | Apr 4, 2026 | Economy, News
By Matthew Holloway |
The U.S. added 178,000 jobs in March, with gains driven by the private sector, while federal employment declined and labor force participation edged slightly lower, according to the Joint Economic Committee.
The report shows job growth rebounded following a weaker February. Private employers added 186,000 jobs, while government employment declined by 8,000 positions.
In a statement posted to X, the JEC Republicans announced the findings, “Beating Expectations!”
The unemployment rate decreased slightly from 4.4 percent in February to 4.3 percent in March. The labor force participation rate declined by 0.1 percentage points to 61.9 percent.
The broader U-6 measure of unemployment, which includes underemployed and marginally attached workers, increased from 7.9 percent to 8.0 percent.
Revisions to prior months showed weaker job performance than initially reported in February. Job losses for that month were revised downward by 41,000, from a decline of 92,000 to a decline of 133,000 jobs. January’s figures were revised upward by 34,000, bringing total job gains for that month to 160,000.
CNN Senior Reporter Matt Egan told audiences Friday, “The job market bounced back in a big way in March. And that is good news. Really, blowing away expectations.”
Wage growth continued on a year-over-year basis. From March 2025 to March 2026, average nominal weekly earnings for all employees on private nonfarm payrolls increased by 3.52 percent, with hourly earnings rising by the same percentage.
For production and nonsupervisory employees, average weekly earnings increased by 3.69 percent, while hourly earnings rose by 3.38 percent over the same period.
Sector-level data showed gains concentrated in specific industries. From February to March, private education and health services added 91,000 jobs, while leisure and hospitality added 44,000.
Losses were recorded in federal government employment, which declined by 18,000 jobs, and in financial activities, which fell by 15,000.
On a year-over-year basis, private education and health services added 663,000 jobs, and leisure and hospitality added 176,000. Federal government employment declined by 330,000 over the same period, while trade, transportation, and utilities decreased by 154,000 jobs.
Job openings declined during the most recent reporting period. From January to February 2026, total nonfarm job openings decreased by 358,000 to 6.88 million. The job openings rate declined by 0.2 percentage points to 4.2 percent.
Sector data for job openings showed increases in other services, which added 77,000 openings, and professional and business services, which added 64,000. Declines were led by leisure and hospitality, down 213,000 openings, and private education and health services, down 78,000.
In a statement, White House spokesman Kush Desai said, “The March jobs report blew out expectations with strong construction job growth and a surge in manufacturing job creation as trillions of dollars in investments begin to materialize. America remains on a solid economic trajectory thanks to President Trump’s proven agenda of tax cuts, deregulation, tariffs, and energy dominance. Americans can rest assured that after the short-term disruptions of Operation Epic Fury are behind us, America’s economic resurgence is set to only accelerate.”
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
by Matthew Holloway | Apr 3, 2026 | News
By Matthew Holloway |
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has signed a bipartisan emergency measure to repeal the state law recognizing César Chávez Day, following the legislature’s action on Monday.
House Bill 2072, sponsored by Rep. Lisa Fink (R-LD27), removes statutory recognition of the March 31 holiday honoring the late union leader following New York Times reporting on allegations that he sexually abused women and minors during his tenure.
The bill passed the Arizona House with a 48-8 vote and cleared the Arizona Senate with a 29-1 vote, with State Sen. Sally Ann Gonzales (D-LD20) casting the sole dissenting vote.
“Once these reports came to light, there was no excuse for leaving this honor in Arizona law,” Fink said. “The women and children Chavez harmed should not have to watch the state continue honoring his name. Repealing this law is the proper response. It respects the victims he left behind and removes a state honor that should not remain in place.”
The legislation advanced following recent reporting on allegations involving Chávez during his tenure as president of the United Farm Workers.
“Arizona law should not honor a man tied to sexual abuse against children and violence against women,” House Speaker Steve Montenegro (R-LD29) said in a statement. “The House acted today because victims deserve better, the truth cannot be ignored, and state honors carry meaning.”
Montenegro urged Hobbs to sign the bill, stressing bipartisan support in both chambers of the legislature.
Hobbs said in a statement on Wednesday that she is “deeply troubled by the recent revelations about César Chávez.”
“After learning the troubling news, I decided not to recognize César Chávez Day this year and have signed legislation to repeal the observance of March 31st as César Chávez Day. While I know signing this bill won’t erase the pain, my thoughts are with the victims and everyone affected. I’m working with community leaders to find meaningful ways to honor and celebrate our farmworker community and their continued contributions to the state of Arizona. “
Addressing the Arizona farmworkers Chávez once represented, Hobbs said, “I am incredibly grateful for our hardworking farmworkers. Their resilience is evident in the lettuce fields of Yuma and the orange-picking farms of Mesa. Arizona’s farmworkers are the backbone of our state’s economy. I remain committed to supporting them and ensuring their contributions are recognized with dignity and respect.”
A March 2026 report by The New York Times detailed allegations from multiple women who said Chávez engaged in sexual misconduct, including claims that he “used his power within the organization to exploit women and girls.”
House Republicans stated in a release that “Arizonans should not be forced to celebrate a figure whose legacy is now under serious question,” adding that the measure reflects “a responsibility to ensure state-recognized holidays align with values supported by the public.”
The emergency legislation, an amended version of HB 2072, repeals sections of the Arizona Revised Statutes that establish the holiday and includes an emergency clause that makes the repeal effective immediately upon the governor’s signature. The bill text specifies that it “repeals section 1-301, Arizona Revised Statutes,” which designates César Chávez Day as a state holiday.
In a March 30 letter to Governor Hobbs, Gonzales urged a veto of the measure, arguing the emergency clause is unconstitutional.
“House Bill 2072 is not an emergency, and it lacks the constitutionally required section that explains why it is necessary to preserve the public peace, health, or safety,” Gonzales wrote. She added that the bill “denies the people of Arizona their constitutionally protected right to direct democracy via referendum.”
Gonzales also called on state leaders to pursue recognition of farmworkers’ contributions through an alternative designation, writing that lawmakers should consider “renaming Dr. Cesar Estrada Chavez Day” rather than eliminating it entirely.
Despite those objections, the bill received the supermajority required for an emergency clause.
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
by Matthew Holloway | Apr 2, 2026 | Economy, News
By Matthew Holloway |
Arizona households are carrying higher debt, seeing declining credit scores, and falling behind on payments at rates above the national average, according to a new analysis from the Common Sense Institute of Arizona (CSI).
The report, which examines credit data and financial trends, found that Arizona’s average credit score dropped by seven points in 2025, placing the state 30th nationally with an average score of 666.
The findings also show long-term growth in household debt. Since 2003, per capita debt in Arizona has increased by 129%, reaching approximately $74,000—one of the largest increases among U.S. states.
Across major categories, Arizona borrowers carry higher balances than the national average. Mortgage debt per capita is 22% higher, while auto loan balances are 7% higher and credit card debt is 8% higher, according to the report.
Missed payments are also more common in Arizona. The report found higher delinquency rates at multiple stages, including accounts 30, 60, and 90 days past due, as well as higher levels of derogatory marks on credit histories compared to national benchmarks.
The analysis also includes a measure of “Household Liquidity Resilience” that assesses households’ ability to withstand financial stress. By that measure, Arizona households are estimated to be 23% less prepared for financial disruptions than the national average. The report identifies the source of this unreadiness emerging from “generally higher than average debt, higher change of delinquency, and a lower cash cushion than the average U.S. household.”
Zach Milne, senior economist at CSI, said the data reflects ongoing financial strain tied to rising costs and borrowing conditions.
“Arizona households are facing residual financial pressure from post-pandemic inflation on top of higher borrowing costs, which continue to strain budgets,” Milne said. “Declining credit scores, rising delinquency rates, and above-average debt levels all point to broader affordability challenges across the state.”
He added, “As households absorb higher costs for housing and other essential expenses, many are becoming more vulnerable to financial shocks and less financially resilient.”
The report compares Arizona’s credit and debt trends to national data, highlighting differences in borrowing levels, repayment patterns, and financial stability indicators.
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
by Matthew Holloway | Apr 1, 2026 | Economy, News
By Matthew Holloway |
The Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry and the Goldwater Institute hosted a delegation of Missouri policymakers in Phoenix to discuss economic competitiveness, innovation, and pro-growth policy, according to a joint release.
The meeting focused on Arizona’s approach to building a competitive environment for emerging industries and long-term economic growth.
The discussion followed the Chamber’s recent launch of its AZ AI Leadership Initiative, which aims to strengthen Arizona’s position in emerging technologies and the broader digital economy.
Arizona has seen rapid expansion in AI and data center infrastructure, driven by growing demand for computing power and cloud services. Major investments from companies such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), which is constructing advanced semiconductor fabrication facilities in Phoenix, along with large-scale data center developments by Google and Meta Platforms in Mesa, and Amazon Web Services in Goodyear, have helped position the state as an emerging hub for both semiconductor production and AI-related computing capacity.
Participants included legislative leaders, policy experts, and representatives from the Arizona Commerce Authority, who shared insights into the state’s policy framework and economic development strategies.
“Arizona’s growth didn’t happen by accident,” said Courtney Coolidge, executive vice president of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry. “It reflects deliberate policy choices that prioritize certainty, competitiveness, and a regulatory environment where businesses can invest, innovate, and scale.”
Arizona lawmakers participating in the meeting included House Speaker Steve Montenegro (R-LD29), Majority Leader Michael Carbone (R-LD25), Rep. Jeff Weninger (R-LD13), Rep. Justin Wilmeth (R-LD2), chair of the House Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Committee, Senate President Pro Tempore T.J. Shope (R-LD16), and Senate Majority Whip Frank Carroll (R-LD28).
“Arizona has made a conscious decision to lead on innovation rather than wait for other states to set the pace,” Montenegro said. “That kind of alignment and forward-looking policy environment allows industries to grow and scale here.”
Lawmakers and policy leaders highlighted sectors including advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, aerospace, autonomous systems, and emerging technologies as areas where Arizona has seen sustained growth.
“Arizona’s success in attracting major investment is tied directly to our focus on advanced manufacturing, infrastructure, and supply chain strength,” Carbone said.
Weninger pointed to Arizona’s regulatory and tax structure as a factor in business investment.
“Companies are looking for certainty,” Weninger said. “Arizona’s predictable regulatory environment and competitive tax structure give businesses the confidence to invest and expand.”
Participants also discussed the role of infrastructure, water policy, and land use in supporting statewide growth. “We’ve been intentional about making sure economic development isn’t concentrated in one region,” Shope said.
Carroll said Arizona’s approach to economic development has positioned the state for continued expansion, particularly in emerging industries.
Wilmeth emphasized the importance of flexibility in regulating new technologies. “We’ve taken a thoughtful approach to emerging technologies by avoiding premature regulation,” he said.
Victor Riches, president and CEO of the Goldwater Institute, said policy certainty and deregulation remain key factors in supporting innovation.
“As emerging technologies continue to reshape industries, policy certainty and deregulation matter more than ever,” Riches said. “Arizona needs to ensure an environment where innovation can move forward.”
The Missouri delegation included state senators and policy advisors, including Sen. Travis Fitzwater, Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern, Sen. Karla May, Sen. Barbara Anne Washington, Sen. Jamie Burger, policy advisor to Gov. Mike Kehoe, Johnathan Shifflett, and representatives from the Missouri Chamber of Commerce, Karen Buschmann, and Jared Hankinson.
The meeting explored how elements of Arizona’s economic policy framework could be adapted in other states and how interstate collaboration could support broader economic growth.
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
by Matthew Holloway | Mar 31, 2026 | News
By Matthew Holloway |
The Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) has opened a formal inquiry into how regulated utilities are using artificial intelligence in system operations, including planning, forecasting, and infrastructure management.
According to a March 24 announcement, Commissioner Lea Márquez Peterson initiated the docket titled In the Matter of Researching and Discussing the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to More Efficiently and Reliably Deliver Energy and Water to Customers (Docket No. AU-00000A-26-0060).
Arizona Corporation Commission records show the inquiry directs regulated electric, natural gas, and Class A and Class B water utilities to provide information on their current and potential use of artificial intelligence in operations, including planning and forecasting, storm response, and equipment procurement. The docket also outlines plans for a public workshop later this year to gather input from stakeholders and subject matter experts.
“Our regulated utilities operate energy and water plants and distribution systems that are identified as critical infrastructure for Arizona,” Márquez Peterson said. “Discussions have been occurring frequently at national and regional conferences on the use of AI to automate and improve services. It’s important that our Commission engage in the dialogue surrounding these technological advancements on behalf of our regulated utilities and their ratepayers.”
The docket states that the Commission is seeking information to better understand how artificial intelligence may be used “to more efficiently and reliably deliver energy and water to customers,” while ensuring systems remain secure and resilient.
The proceeding will begin the Commission’s review of how artificial intelligence could be integrated into daily plant operations and distribution systems used by Arizona’s regulated utilities.
As part of the inquiry, utilities are being asked to detail how artificial intelligence is currently used or may be deployed in the future, particularly in areas such as system planning, demand forecasting, response to outages and severe weather events, and infrastructure and equipment procurement.
The Commission stated that the inquiry will also examine how utilities are implementing artificial intelligence to maintain system reliability and protect critical infrastructure.
According to the announcement and docket filing, a workshop will be held before the end of the year to allow stakeholders and subject matter experts to provide input and discuss information submitted into the proceeding.
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
