2 Republicans Challenge Agency Nominee for Anti-Trump Facebook Post, Yet Panel Approves Him Anyway

Senator Jake Hoffman, R-Queen Creek, expressed strong opposition to Governor Katie Hobbs’ nominee for the Department of Agriculture, Paul Brierley, during a Senate Committee on Director Nominations hearing on Thursday. Hoffman’s criticism stemmed from Brierley’s previous comments on social media that criticized former President Donald Trump.

The Democratic and Independent Nominee Organization (DINO) Committee voted 3-2 to advance Brierley’s nomination to the full Senate. Hoffman and Senator John Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills, opposed the nomination, while Senator TJ Shope, R-Coolidge, sided with Democratic Senators Analise Ortiz and Flavio Bravo to support it.

Republican senators raised concerns regarding the Department of Agriculture’s cage-free egg rule and perceived overcharging for regulated food items. Their primary issue involved a Facebook post made by Brierley in 2020, where he argued against Trump’s reelection. “You went on a war path against him in your rhetoric, and now you’re tasked with working with him,” Hoffman stated. He concluded that this raised significant doubts about Brierley’s judgment, prompting his no vote.

Initially unaware of the post, Kavanagh changed his vote to no after Hoffman’s remarks highlighted the issue during questioning. Brierley defended himself, insisting he has been apolitical since the 2020 election and has not publicly shared political opinions since that post. He emphasized his experience building relationships in the agricultural sector would not hinder cooperation with the Trump administration.

Ortiz defended Brierley, attempting to halt Hoffman’s line of questioning, asserting that past political views should not impact future performance. “We can’t just stand by the First Amendment when it suits us,” she argued while explaining her vote in favor of Brierley.

Hoffman conveyed skepticism about Brierley’s ability to collaborate with the Trump administration, citing the nominee’s critical remarks. Brierley responded, “God willing,” emphasizing that he remains committed to fostering constructive relationships.

Brierley’s nomination will proceed to a full Senate vote next week. Christian Slater, communications director for Hobbs, expressed confidence in Brierley’s eventual confirmation, highlighting his extensive support within the agricultural community.

In addition, Hoffman questioned Brierley on an AZDA policy mandating cage-free conditions for egg-laying hens, which was delayed for seven years due to avian flu and rising egg prices. Brierley stated that he does not support this policy and had conveyed his stance to the Governor’s Office.

Furthermore, Hoffman accused Brierley of soliciting letters of support from AZDA-regulated entities, suggesting undue pressure was applied. Brierley acknowledged reaching out for support but denied any pressure on recipients to present favorable letters.

On the same day, Gaetano Testini, nominated to lead the Industrial Commission, received unanimous support from the DINO, and his appointment will also head to the Senate floor. So far, five of Hobbs’ nominees have been confirmed this legislative session, while nine more await hearings. The governor still needs to fill two agency director positions following the Senate’s rejection of the nominee for the Department of Housing and the resignation of the Office of Tourism director.