by Matthew Holloway | May 20, 2026 | News
By Matthew Holloway |
The Arizona Police Association endorsed Republican Congressman Juan Ciscomani this week as renewed scrutiny emerged over past comments by Democratic congressional candidate JoAnna Mendoza supporting reallocating police funding.
The endorsement comes as Arizona’s Sixth Congressional District is expected to remain one of the nation’s most competitive House races heading into the 2026 election cycle.
According to a report published by the Arizona Globe, Mendoza is facing renewed criticism following the resurfacing of comments made during a June 11, 2020, debate hosted by the Arizona Citizens Clean Elections Commission for Legislative District 11 candidates.
In footage cited by the report, Mendoza discussed policing and public safety amid the nationwide unrest surrounding policing in 2020.
“Seeing a police officer is fear,” Mendoza said during the debate. “There are hundreds of murders at the hands of police brutality.”
The report also cited additional statements attributed to Mendoza criticizing law enforcement and immigration enforcement operations. According to statements circulated by Republican operatives this year and referenced in the report, Mendoza said law enforcement officials “are not going out to catch criminals, as a matter of fact, it’s the complete opposite. And they’re even killing American citizens.”
“Reallocating funds from the police is the same as defunding the police, and everyone with a brain knows that,” RNC spokesman Nick Poche said in a statement, according to the Globe. “Mendoza thinks Arizonans are stupid, but her rabid anti-law enforcement rhetoric speaks for itself, and voters know she’s a defund the police extremist who hates law enforcement.”
The Arizona Globe report stated Mendoza also advocated reallocating portions of police funding toward other community programs during the 2020 debate, aligning with positions associated with the national “defund the police” movement that gained prominence following the death of George Floyd.
Meanwhile, Ciscomani secured the Arizona Police Association’s endorsement this week. In a statement released by the campaign, the organization cited Ciscomani’s record on border security, public safety, and support for law enforcement officers.
Arizona’s Sixth Congressional District remains one of the key battleground districts nationally as Republicans seek to maintain control of the U.S. House and Democrats attempt to reclaim a majority. Ciscomani first won the seat in 2022 and was reelected in 2024 following closely contested races.
In a district where public safety and border security remain major voter concerns, Republicans are likely to use Mendoza’s resurfaced comments aggressively as they seek to hold the seat in 2026.
As of publication, Mendoza’s campaign had not publicly responded to the resurfaced video or criticism surrounding the remarks referenced in the Arizona Globe report.
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 Ethan Faverino | May 12, 2026 | News
By Ethan Faverino |
Congressman Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-06) has secured a significant new mission for Fort Huachuca, marking a major victory for national security, economic growth, and Arizona’s Sixth Congressional District.
The U.S. Department of War has selected Fort Huachuca as the primary site for the new mission and squadron, recognizing the installation’s unique strategic capabilities, advanced infrastructure, and strong regional support.
Local leaders and stakeholders across Cochise County and Southern Arizona are applauding Rep. Ciscomani’s determined advocacy and successful collaboration with the Trump administration and the Department of Defense.
“This new mission is a win for Sierra Vista and Cochise County, a win for Arizona and a win for our national security,” stated Ciscomani. “Most importantly, this a testament to Fort Huachuca and its nationally recognized role as an unequalled strategic asset, not just today, but for the future of our national defense.”
Fort Huachuca, located approximately 15 miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border, is the largest employer in Cochise County. It features 946 square miles of restricted airspace and 2,500 square miles of protected electronic ranges. Its selection was strengthened by a robust regional ecosystem that includes the University of Arizona, along with major defense contractors such as Raytheon, Northrop Grumman, and Honeywell.
Local leaders emphasized the mission’s broad benefits, including high-quality job creation and substantial economic impact.
Dr. Randy Groth, Fort Huachuca 50 said, “The selection of Fort Huachuca as the primary site for the new mission and squadron is a significant achievement for Sierra Vista and Cochise County, solidifying our community’s leadership in homeland defense and national security. I value Congressman Ciscomani’s dedicated advocacy and ongoing collaboration with the Department of War in securing this vital mission, which will create new opportunities and strengthen our region’s commitment to supporting our active duty service members.”
Clea McCaa, Mayor of Sierra Vista, stated, “Bringing this new mission to Fort Huachuca is a game-changer for Sierra Vista and our surrounding region. Not only will it further support American interests by strengthening our national defense posture, but it will also create high-quality jobs, bringing in approximately $3 billion in economic impact and reinforcing our city’s strong partnership with the Department of Defense. I appreciate Congressman Ciscomani’s continued advocacy over the past year in securing Fort Huachuca for this important investment in our future.”
Suresh Garimella, President of University of Arizona added, “The establishment of this mission at Fort Huachuca is a historic win for Arizona and a testament to the tireless advocacy of Congressman Juan Ciscomani. The University of Arizona has a long and storied legacy, and we are eager to bring our world-class research and technical prowess to this vital national security priority. We look forward to supporting the Air Force in Southern Arizona to safeguard our nation’s interests.”
Melany Edwards-Barton, Sky Islands Regional Partnership said, “The fact of the matter is, missions don’t come to an area that is not supported by its community. We have a supportive community down here that is willing to support it. Bringing in another mission adds jobs, adds another level of financial security to our region; the economic impact is going to be fabulous.”
This announcement underscores Fort Huachuca’s continued importance to America’s defense posture and delivers tangible economic benefits to Southern Arizona.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
by Ethan Faverino | May 1, 2026 | News
By Ethan Faverino |
Congressman Abraham Hamadeh (R-AZ-08) introduced Kayleigh’s Law, a landmark federal legislation designed to provide survivors of dangerous crimes with permanent, lifelong protection from their convicted abusers by requiring courts to issue no-contact injunctions that remain in effect for the rest of the offender’s life.
Named after Kayleigh Kozak, an Arizona mother and prominent victim advocate who was sexually abused as a child by her teacher, the bill aims to end the repeated “legal tug-of-war” that forces survivors to return to court multiple times to maintain basic safety protections against their predators.
Kayleigh’s Law would mandate that federal courts impose lifetime no-contact injunctions against individuals convicted of federal sex crimes and violent felonies when requested by the victim or the government at sentencing.
The legislation builds directly on successful state-level reforms. Kayleigh’s Law has been enacted in Arizona and Wisconsin since 2022, where it has provided critical relief to survivors. In its first year alone in Arizona, the law enabled over 1,000 victims to secure lifetime protective orders against their abusers.
“As a former prosecutor, I know how vulnerable victims can be, how determined their predators often are, and how judges can frequently fail victims of crime. That is why we must require federal courts to impose these lifetime injunctions when requested by the government or the victim during sentencing,” stated Congressman Hamadeh. “I have seen what victims go through as the predator’s adjudication process plays out, and I know how important it is for the victim’s healing process to begin. That process cannot be interrupted by their predators simply because our courts fail to take crime seriously and fail to impose lifetime injunctions.”
Kayleigh Kozak, whose personal experience drove the creation of the original state law, emphasized the lifelong impact of sexual violence.
“The harm caused by sexual assault is not temporary. It is lifelong,” stated Kayleigh. “The protections for those who have been sexually violated should be lifelong too. No survivor should have to repeatedly return to court just to request the continuation of a protective order from the person who was convicted of sexually violating them. Kayleigh’s Law ensures no victim ever has to endure the nightmare of continuously justifying their need for safety. When I was a little girl, I could not protect myself from the teacher who sexually abused me at school – but I can fight now to protect myself, other innocent children, and every victim.”
Under the federal proposal, the lifetime injunction would prohibit all forms of direct or indirect contact with the victim and would remain enforceable even after the offender completes prison, probation, or supervised release.
Original cosponsors of Kayleigh’s Law include Representatives Brian Babin (TX-36), Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), Eli Crane (AZ-02), Troy Downing (MT-02), Mike Ezell (MS-04), Brandon Gill (TX-26), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), David Joyce (OH-14), Nancy Mace (SC-01), Dan Meuser (PA-09), Barry Moore (AL-01), Gary Palmer (AL-06), Chris Smith (NJ-04), David Schweikert (AZ-01), Greg Steube (FL-17), Marlin Stutzman (IN-03), David Taylor (OH-02), and Delegate Kimberly King-Hinds (MP).
Congressman Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06) stated, “Kayleigh’s Law originated in Arizona and will uplift thousands of victims of unspeakable crimes. I’m proud to join my colleagues in supporting this commonsense legislation to ensure victims of dangerous crimes can obtain lifetime protections against their abusers. Survivors should not be faced with uncertainty about those who have harmed them. Kayleigh’s Law will close critical gaps in federal law by strengthening protections, enhancing enforcement, and ensuring lasting safety for victims.”
Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03) added, “Victims of violent crime and sexual assault deserve to have permanent, basic safety protections without having to repeatedly face their attacker in court. The emotional and psychological toll of these legal proceedings is high. Kayleigh’s Law gives victims one less thing to worry about by removing the fear and dread of reliving these experiences. I am proud to cosponsor Congressman Hamadeh’s bill to ensure these criminals hold no power over their victims.”
The bill mirrors key elements of Arizona Statute (A.R.S. 13-719), which applies to dangerous offenses, serious/violent felonies, and specific sex offenses under Chapters 14 and 35.1. Injunctions issued under the law are effective immediately upon sentencing and do not expire for the predator’s natural lifetime.
Kayleigh’s Law is being introduced during Sexual Assault Awareness Month, underscoring its focus on empowering survivors and closing critical gaps in federal protections for victims of sexual assault and violent crimes.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
by Ethan Faverino | Apr 24, 2026 | News
By Ethan Faverino |
Congressman Abraham Hamadeh (R-AZ-08) recently introduced H.R. 8331, known as the Maverick Act of 2026, a bipartisan measure to preserve three of the final remaining F-14 Tomcat fighter jets for historical display and public education.
The legislation is the House companion to Senate Bill 4161, introduced by Senator Tim Sheehy (R-MT). Original cosponsors joining Congressman Hamadeh include Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-06), Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA), Rep. Austin Scott (R-GA), Rep. Rich McCormick (R-GA), Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI), Rep. Jake Ellzey (R-TX), Rep. Don Davis (D-NC), and Rep. James Moylan (R-GU).
Congressman Hamadeh, a former U.S. Army officer, emphasized the personal and cultural importance of the legendary fighter jets. “As a young man, I was inspired by the popular Tom Cruise movie Top Gun, which featured the F-14, one of the most iconic aircraft ever flown,” stated Congressman Hamadeh. “As a former U.S. Army officer, I know that many of the men and women I served with felt the same way. That is why I proudly introduced this legislation.”
The Maverick Act would authorize the Secretary of the Navy to transfer three specific F-14 Tomcats to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center Commission in Huntsville, Alabama. The aircraft would be conveyed at no cost to the federal government through a conditional deed of gift.
Currently, strict post-retirement rules have resulted in the destruction of nearly all F-14 airframes. This bill creates a narrow exception, allowing the three aircraft to be fully demilitarized and preserved under rigorous national security protections. The legislation explicitly prohibits any restoration of combat capability and bans any future foreign transfers.
All expenses related to transportation, restoration, operation, and maintenance of the aircraft will be the responsibility of the U.S. Space and Rocket Center Commission. The jets will be provided in “as-is” condition, with the Navy permitted to include relevant technical manuals and limited excess spare parts needed for restoration and static display. The Commission may partner with qualified nonprofit organizations to help restore the aircraft.
“Because this legislation does not come at a cost to our hard-working taxpayers, I expect that my fellow fiscal conservatives will happily support this legislation,” added Hamadeh. “I am grateful to the cosponsors of the bill, who have already offered their enthusiastic support.”
Strong safeguards are built into the bill, including a rescission clause that returns ownership to the United States if any conditions are violated. The aircraft must remain demilitarized and may only be used for public displays, airshows, and commemorative events celebrating U.S. naval aviation heritage. All activities will comply with FAA regulations and applicable export control laws.
In a separate but related preservation victory, Congressman Hamadeh secured language in the FY26 defense bill – signed into law by President Trump – that rescued five historic T-37 jet trainers from destruction at Tucson’s aircraft boneyard. These aircraft, which trained generations of pilots, aces, astronauts, and the nation’s first female aviators, will now be restored by the Arizona Aviation Historical Group to support STEM education, aviation heritage, and military recruitment.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
by Matthew Holloway | Mar 28, 2026 | News
By Matthew Holloway |
Legislation sponsored by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ06) to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and ensure pay for federal security personnel passed the U.S. House of Representatives with bipartisan support this week.
According to a press release from Ciscomani’s office, the “Pay Our Homeland Defenders Act (H.R. 8029)” would fund DHS operations and provide pay for personnel, including Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents, U.S. Coast Guard members, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) employees, Secret Service personnel, and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) staff.
Ciscomani said the bill passed with support from all House Republicans and several Democrats.
“We just voted on my bill, the Pay Our Homeland Defenders Act, and it passed with bipartisan support,” Ciscomani said in a video statement released following the vote. “There’s clearly a need and a sign that we have to fund the Department of Homeland Security entirely.”
Ciscomani, who serves as vice chair of the Homeland Security Committee, said he worked on the legislation and that negotiations included members of both parties.
“This bill was negotiated with Democrats until the majority of the Democrats started playing politics with this issue,” Ciscomani said. “That doesn’t pay our TSA agents, our Coast Guard, CISA and cybersecurity, Secret Service, FEMA—the money that Arizona needs, especially during the summer and fires. So this all gets funded in this bill.”
The legislation comes as DHS funding and employee pay have been at issue amid broader federal budget negotiations.
In an opinion column published by the Arizona Daily Star, Ciscomani urged the U.S. Senate to take up the legislation and ensure continued funding for DHS personnel.
In the column, Ciscomani wrote that DHS employees “work every day to keep Americans safe,” and argued that they “should not be used as leverage in political fights in Washington.”
He also called on the Senate to act without delay, writing that lawmakers should “pass this legislation immediately and ensure our homeland defenders receive the pay they have earned.”
The bill now advances to the U.S. Senate for consideration.
“I call on the senators… to pass this immediately,” Ciscomani said. “And I specifically call on the Arizona senators to get this done.”
The measure would provide funding for DHS operations, which include aviation security, border security, disaster response, and cybersecurity efforts.
As of publication, the Senate has not yet taken action on the bill.
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.
