On Wednesday, October 11, Arizonans learned the budget Katie Hobbs signed into law will possibly have a $400 million shortfall. This means the state won’t have enough money to fund the budget because it’s too big and is spending too much money.
The left wants to blame the budget shortfall on the implementation of former Governor Ducey’s state income flat tax a couple years ago. They also demonize the families participating in the state school choice ESA program. However, if it weren’t for Hobbs’ spending increase of $2 billion and vetoing a $2 billion smaller budget, the state would still have an outlook with a budget surplus.
Let’s review the short history.
In June of 2022, Arizona Governor Ducey signed into law the Fiscal Year 2023 Arizona Budget. The Radical Left and then-Secretary of State Katie Hobbs praised that budget for being bipartisan.
Moving ahead to the most recent 2023 legislative session, Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen and Speaker of the House Ben Toma wanted the new legislature to prioritize their most important responsibility — the state budget. Accordingly, in February, the state legislature passed a continuation of the same $15.8 billion budget from 2022.
Hobbs vetoed it. The budget Hobbs vetoed is the same as the one she applauded after Ducey signed it into law. This year, Hobbs called the budget partisan and extreme. The budget Hobbs decided was good enough to sign into law was $17.8 billion, exactly $2 billion larger than the budget she vetoed.
Hobbs insisted on a budget that is $2 billion larger even while many economists predicted Arizona and the nation are at risk for an economic slowdown due to rising interest rates. Forbes reported, “At the end of 2022, the National Association of Realtors predicted a 15.8% drop in combined sales and prices for the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale [housing] market in 2023.”
The Federal Reserve, the nation’s central bank, currently shows the median home price in the United States is collapsing faster than any other point in recorded history.
If a recession occurs, Arizona will see less tax revenue. This would also have a negative impact on the budget’s revenue because people are spending less money; therefore, the state is collecting less in taxes.
While the Radical Left wants to blame the budgetary shortfall on the flat tax that benefits everyone, one thing is clear. The state of Arizona is spending too much money, and Hobbs’ extra $2 billion budget is destroying Arizona. It is her fault.
Jeff Caldwell currently helps with operations at EZAZ.org. He is also a Precinct Captain, State Committeeman, and Precinct Committeeman in Legislative District 2. Jeff is a huge baseball fan who enjoys camping and exploring new, tasty restaurants! You can follow him on X here.
Thousands of migrants from potentially troublesome countries are being apprehended at America’s southern border, while many others could be slipping past law enforcement.
On Tuesday, Fox News journalist Bill Melugin reported that “Internal CBP data provided & confirmed by CBP sources reveals thousands of ‘special interest aliens’ from mostly Middle Eastern countries have been apprehended by Border Patrol while crossing into U.S. illegally over last 2 years.”
NEW: Internal CBP data provided & confirmed by CBP sources reveals thousands of “special interest aliens” from mostly Middle Eastern countries have been apprehended by Border Patrol while crossing into U.S. illegally over last 2 years.
Melugin clarified that “a special interest alien is a term used by the U.S. government to refer to people coming from countries that have conditions that favor or harbor terrorism, or pose a potential national security to the U.S.”
From 10/1/2021 to 10/4/2023, the following apprehensions by nation of origin were reported:
Syria: 538
Yemen: 139
Iran: 659
Iraq: 123
Afghanistan: 6,386
Lebanon: 164
Egypt: 3,153
Pakistan: 1,613
Mauritania: 15,594
Uzbekistan: 13,624
Turkey: 30,830
The decorated reporter added some concerning context for his report, writing, “Border Patrol sources tell me they have extreme concerns about who is coming into the country because they have little to no way of vetting people from these special interest countries. I’m told unless they have committed a crime previously in the US, or they are on some sort of federal watchlist, there’s no way to know who they are because most of their home countries don’t share data/records with the US so there is nothing to match a name to when BP agents run fingerprints.”
The number of apprehensions from ‘special interest countries’ follows continuing reports of an increase in the number of suspected terrorists who have been encountered this fiscal year, along with the ‘gotaways’ who have escaped detection from law enforcement. Over 150 suspected terrorists have already been nabbed over the past eleven months, which was a stark rise from the previous year (when 98 suspected terrorists were arrested at the southern border). According to CBP data, only 26 total suspected terrorists were apprehended at the southern border from Fiscal Years 17-21.
If the issues of “special interest nations” and “suspected terrorists” apprehensions weren’t bad enough for the country, the number of ‘gotaways’ present a far-greater problem for the United States. More than 1.5 million of these individuals are estimated to have escaped capture by border officials, meaning that they likely are anywhere within the American homeland. Adding to fears from law enforcement, the identities and motives of these aliens are almost entirely unknown.
Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen addressed this danger in his statement about the horrific terrorist attack in Israel over the weekend. Petersen said, “Our own country must remain vigilant, as our wide open border, ignored by Joe Biden and Democrats, remains one of the greatest threats to our national security. This same situation can happen at anytime on our own soil, and we call on the federal government to take immediate action.”
Arizona Senate Republicans condemn the horrific violence happening against civilians and Americans in Israel. – @votewarren ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/tyPJQsXgkb
State lawmakers continue to express messages of sympathy and support for Israel, following the unprovoked and shocking terrorist attacks from this past weekend.
This week, many Arizona elected officials added to the bipartisan crescendo of voices in Israel’s corner. On Tuesday, House Speaker Ben Toma issued a statement, saying, “Hamas’ actions amount to terrorism, plain and simple. There is no place for their hateful ideology in any society and their violent actions of anti-Semitism must be stopped. Israel has a right to live in freedom and to defend their land from these barbaric terrorists. We strongly condemn the senseless acts of violence against the people of Israel and support their right to defend themselves. We stand unequivocally with our Israeli brothers and sisters and grieve with those who have lost loved ones to these unprovoked atrocities. May their memories be a blessing and may justice be swiftly delivered.”
✅FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE✅ Representative@RepBenToma and @AZHouseGOP Condemn Unprecedented Attacks on Israel: "Hamas' actions amount to terrorism, plain and simple. Israel has a right to live in freedom and to defend their land from these barbaric terrorists. We strongly condemn… pic.twitter.com/gWVbDH1XwR
State Senator Frank Carroll also put out a statement in support of Israel on Tuesday. He said, “Arizonans should pray for our ally Israel, the lives lost and those in harm’s way. We also need to be vigilant in these trying times. To predict the future, one only needs to understand the past. The 20th century is rich in history about events that led up to the midcentury global conflict. Here we go again. It should be clear where this is heading. God help us.”
In addition to the statements, hundreds of Arizonans, as well as a bipartisan coalition of government officials, attended a Monday night event in Scottsdale to show solidarity for Israel. From that event, Attorney General Kris Mayes posted, “Shoulder-to-shoulder in support of Israel.”
— County Attorney Rachel Mitchell (@Rachel1Mitchell) October 10, 2023
On Monday night, Governor Katie Hobbs also announced that the Executive Tower was lit ‘blue’ in a demonstration of support for the staunch American ally.
To the people of Israel: Arizona stands with you. Tonight, the Executive Tower is blue in solidarity. 🇮🇱
Arizona elected officials stood with Israel after the American ally suffered a shocking and horrific terrorist attack late last week.
After Israel was attacked by Hamas terrorists on Friday night (Arizona time), state politicians offered their thoughts, prayers, and messages of unwavering support for the Middle Eastern democracy.
Governor Katie Hobbs wrote, “I condemn the horrific terrorist attack on Israel by Hamas. Arizona stands with the people of Israel and supports their right to self defense. My heart breaks for the families of those who have been killed, injured or captured.”
I condemn the horrific terrorist attack on Israel by Hamas. Arizona stands with the people of Israel and supports their right to self defense. My heart breaks for the families of those who have been killed, injured or captured.
Attorney General Kris Mayes stated, “Deeply shocked and heartbroken by today’s terrible Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel. My heart goes out to the families mourning their lost loved ones. Arizona stands resolutely in support of Israel.”
Deeply shocked and heartbroken by today’s terrible Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel. My heart goes out to the families mourning their lost loved ones. Arizona stands resolutely in support of Israel. https://t.co/arvkaKKyqs
— AZ Attorney General Kris Mayes (@AZAGMayes) October 7, 2023
Secretary of State Adrian Fontes added, “This has been a tough day for the world. I unequivocally condemn today’s terrorist attacks in Israel and am thinking of the victims and their loved ones. Every nation should have the right to defend itself. Democracy must be protected wherever it is in jeopardy.”
This has been a tough day for the world. I unequivocally condemn today’s terrorist attacks in Israel and am thinking of the victims and their loved ones. Every nation should have the right to defend itself. Democracy must be protected wherever it is in jeopardy.
Treasurer Kimberly Yee also weighed in, saying, “I stand with Israel. The United States has enjoyed a longtime friendship and allied relationship with Israel, a shining light of democracy in the Middle East. As a former State Senate Majority Leader and now as Arizona Treasurer, I have fought against BDS efforts to boycott and harm Israel. Please join me in praying for protection over the people of Israel against these evil Hamas terrorist attacks. May God bless the United States and Israel.”
— Arizona Treasurer Kimberly Yee (@AZTreasurerYee) October 9, 2023
Many members of Arizona’s Legislature also shared their solidarity with Israel over the weekend.
Senate President Warren Petersen spoke for his Republican conference, stating, “Arizona Senate Republicans stand in support of Israel, one of our nation’s most important allies. We strongly condemn the horrific violence happening against innocent Israeli civilians and Americans. We send prayers for strength, courage and comfort as the Israeli people battle against pure evil.”
Arizona Senate Republicans condemn the horrific violence happening against civilians and Americans in Israel. – @votewarren ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/tyPJQsXgkb
Representative Alma Hernandez wrote, “While I don’t post during Shabbat I must break that today. Israel is at war and my heart is breaking for what is happening and unfolding there. Innocent Israelis murdered, walking on the streets, elderly being murdered while waiting at bus stops, women and children being kidnapped, raped and murdered on video. All while Palestinian terrorist are celebrating on the streets. I can’t believe this is happening today. My heart is shattered.”
While I don’t post during Shabbat I must break that today. Israel is at war and my heart is breaking for what is happening and unfolding there. Innocent Israelis murdered, walking on the streets, elderly being murdered while waiting at bus stops, women & children being kidnapped,…
— (((Rep.Alma Hernandez))) (@almaforarizona) October 7, 2023
Arizona Senate Pro Tempore, T.J. Shope, expressed his prayers for the American ally.
Representative Consuelo Hernandez said, “Praying for the people of Israel who were infiltrated by Hamas terrorist. So many more Israelis will be killed for the simple reason of being Jewish and existing. You are not alone. The world is watching.”
Praying for the people of Israel who were infiltrated by Hamas terrorist. So many more Israelis will be killed for the simple reason of being Jewish and existing. You are not alone. The world is watching. https://t.co/rv3zSF3twN
Representative Jacqueline Parker praised Israeli leadership and response to the attacks, saying, “At least there’s one righteous super power left in the world with competent leadership. I pray for Israel’s safety & swift victory.”
At least there’s one righteous super power left in the world with competent leadership. I pray for Israel’s safety & swift victory. 🙏🙏🙏 https://t.co/u5WYoiIzz8
Representative Seth Blattman added, “This is a horrifying surprise attack on the people of Israel. I stand with Israel as it defends itself against Hamas in this ongoing assault.”
This is a horrifying surprise attack on the people of Israel. I stand with Israel as it defends itself against Hamas in this ongoing assault.
Other municipal and county officials also issued their own statements in reaction to the events from the weekend.
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego posted, “I’m proud to stand with Israel and condemn Hamas’s attacks on innocent people in the strongest terms. Here in Phoenix, our police are stepping up patrols near synagogues – and our hearts are with our many friends throughout Israel.”
I’m proud to stand with Israel and condemn Hamas’s attacks on innocent people in the strongest terms.
Here in Phoenix, our police are stepping up patrols near synagogues—and our hearts are with our many friends throughout Israel.
Representative Alexander Kolodin recognized the increased security provided by Phoenix law enforcement, stating, “Grateful to the Phoenix Police for this extra degree of vigilance. We American Jews are tremendously luck to live in a country where officers of every faith are willing to risk their lives to protect our ability to worship freely.”
Grateful to the @PhoenixPolice for this extra degree of vigilance. We American Jews are tremendously lucky to live in a country where officers of every faith are willing to risk their lives to protect our ability to worship freely.https://t.co/vP13f1j04b
Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell also shared her prayers for Israel.
Praying for Israel.
— County Attorney Rachel Mitchell (@Rachel1Mitchell) October 7, 2023
Peoria Mayor Jason Beck told AZ Free News that “Israel is a home away from home for me and my family. It has a sacred history and is one of the few places in the region that respects the personal beliefs of their citizens. I’m both saddened and angry at what these acts of terrorism have done to the people of Israel. I am taking action by sending body armor to Israel for the protection of the brave soldiers who will defend their homeland and our Western values. The Biden administration should be ashamed of their recent actions that opened up funding to Iran. Iran is who has openly trained and funded Hamas and other affiliates that don’t recognize Israel’s right to exist. They seek to wipe Israel off the face of the earth. I stand with the men and women of Israel in this fight and pray that God will protect their homeland.”
Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
The fallout continues from the Arizona Governor’s decision to withdraw her remaining agency nominees for Senate confirmation.
On Monday, Senate President Warren Petersen highlighted an email from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) regarding his chamber’s confirmation process. The communication to all ADEQ staff was from Karen Peters, who was previously nominated to serve as the Department’s Director.
Very disturbing to see that the governor and director of ADEQ blatantly and openly attempting to circumvent the law. Dark day for Arizona. pic.twitter.com/259gHWTJ8C
In her message, Peters shared that “Governor Hobbs is taking actions today to keep her chosen agency leaders in place, as the state Senate has not acted on many of her cabinet appointments. As of this morning, I am reassigned into an Executive Deputy Director position, not subject to Senate confirmation, and serve as the Cabinet Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.”
Petersen erupted at the intercepted transmission, writing, “Very disturbing to see that the governor and director of ADEQ blatantly and openly attempting to circumvent the law. Dark day for Arizona.”
Arizona Treasurer Kimberly Yee also weighed in on the governor’s shocking action. During Tuesday’s State Board of Investment meeting, Yee revealed that she “did not recognize employees from the Arizona Department of Administration or the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions as legally participating members due to the recent actions of the Governor.” The Republican Treasurer added, “Yesterday’s decision by the Governor to pull the nominations of these cabinet-level positions has created chaos and confusion that is contrary to the orderly administration of government business. The absence of lawfully appointed directors of these two agencies creates legal uncertainty and jeopardizes the proceedings of the State Board of Investment.”
Arizona Treasurer Kimberly Yee issued the following statement on today's State Board of Investment meeting. pic.twitter.com/SU0ByqcR4m
— Office of the Arizona State Treasurer (@AZTreasury) September 26, 2023
The Senate President agreed with Yee’s assessment of the situation at hand, stating, “Treasurer Yee is correct. The Governor has appointed 13 Fake Directors. They are illegitimate and should not be recognized as credible.”
Petersen also noted his chamber “approved 70 percent of her nominees” – a sign that the Senate was moving in good faith to complete its constitutional responsibilities.
Treasurer Yee is correct. The Governor has appointed 13 Fake Directors. They are illegitimate and should not be recognized as credible.
The Senate process was working to confirm nominees. We approved 70 percent of her nominees. But we are not a rubber stamp. 1of2. https://t.co/BSWzIX4fmj
However, Petersen warned that the Senate’s confirmation process was “not a rubber stamp” for nominees sent from the Governor’s Office. He asserted that “Vetting is imperative to protect AZs citizens. The founders set up a system of checks and balances for this purpose. Further there was no need to rush her new Fake Director appointments because all of her prior nominees could serve for 1 year without and prior to confirmation.”
Vetting is imperative to protect AZs citizens. The founders set up a system of checks and balances for this purpose.
Further there was no need to rush her new Fake Director appointments because all of her prior nominees could serve for 1 year without and prior to confirmation.
The final straw for the Hobbs’ administration appears to have taken place last week, when the Senate’s Committee on Director Nominations voted, along party lines, to recommend a ‘no’ vote on the executive appointment for the Director of the Arizona Department of Housing, Joan Serviss.
In a press release announcing the result of the committee’s vote, the Senate Republican Caucus shared that “during questioning of Serviss, troubling information came to light regarding a history of repeated and seemingly pervasive plagiarism while serving as Executive Director with the Arizona Housing Coalition. The Caucus added, “Over a period of about four and a half years, an alarming number of individual statements were documented as written by other groups, but presented by Ms. Serviss as her own original works,” and “under her leadership, both government entities and the public were misled, threatening the credibility of this organization.”
However, Senate Democrats were outraged by the committee’s rejection of Serviss. Two Senators, Lela Alston and Flavio Bravo, quickly issued a press release, condemning the action. Alston said, “I have sat in more legislative committees than I would like to admit, but I have never seen worse behavior than that which was displayed by Senator Hoffman today. Director Serviss is broadly supported by veterans, housing experts, community members, and those in the advocacy community for this role.” Bravo added, “The accusations Republicans chose to throw were not that of a legislative official who should easily be able to distinguish the difference between an advocacy letter and an academic paper…He (Hoffman) put his own personal disagreements with Governor Hobbs above the dire needs of Arizonans in urgent need of housing.”
Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
