Arizona Republicans Sound Alarm on Democratic Majority: ‘Higher Taxes and Voter Fraud’ Ahead

(The Center Square) – Arizona Republicans are raising alarms about the potential consequences if Democrats secure the few seats needed for majorities in both legislative chambers. Such a shift would empower Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs to advance her agenda without Republican oversight during the final years of her term.

The Democratic Caucus has outlined a strategy to pursue in 2025 should they gain control of the Legislature. This includes a range of priorities that have drawn attention from both sides. Representative John Gillette expressed concern, stating, “They’ve made their intent very clear, and for most of us, it’s very scary.”

A central point of contention between the parties is the utilization of Arizona’s Education Savings Account (ESA) funds. These funds allow parents to allocate taxpayer money for educational expenses, including private school tuition. Earlier this year, a set of bills pushed by Governor Hobbs aimed to enhance oversight of ESA expenditures. Despite this, they stalled in committee. Assistant Minority Leader Rep. Oscar De Los Santos emphasized the necessity for accountability, stating that current practices risk waste and abuse of funds.

Contrastingly, Gillette argues that parents must retain the freedom to choose the best educational path for their children, especially in light of Arizona’s declining public school quality. A 2023 U.S. News & World Report ranked Arizona as 45th in education nationwide. He insisted, “Government and public schools are failing in many ways, and we want to create competition because competition makes everyone better.”

Former Republican Senator Vince Leach offered a more conciliatory view, suggesting that increased scrutiny of ESA programs could yield benefits. He emphasized that such programs are capable of improvement through legislative updates.

The Democratic agenda also includes renewing Proposition 123, which utilizes the State Land Trust Permanent Fund to finance public education. Their proposal seeks to extend the proposition for a decade and increase the distribution percentage. State Treasurer Kimberly Yee opposed this measure, citing concerns for fiscal stability. Leach shared similar apprehensions, advocating for renewal but questioning the proposed increase.

Democrats claim that their majority would allow them to implement cost-cutting measures for Arizonans, but Republicans dismiss this as unrealistic. Democrats’ key proposals involve paid family and medical leave, affordable childcare, and lowering prescription drug costs. Republican Senator TJ Shope countered, asserting that achieving these aims would likely necessitate tax increases, despite Democrats’ assurances of maintaining low taxes.

Research from the Common Sense Institute supports claims that such policies could result in tax hikes. It highlighted parallels with similar laws enacted in Colorado, which incurred significant economic costs. For example, a bill mandating government contributions to paid family leave has reportedly cost Colorado over $3 billion since its introduction.

Further complications may arise from proposed price controls on prescription drugs, which could lead to shortages. Shope cited potential repercussions, explaining that limiting prices without corresponding support might dissuade businesses from selling essential goods.

In a recent legislative session, Democrats attempted to introduce measures aimed at expanding voter access. However, these bills were halted by Republican opposition, who argued they could lead to electoral fraud. Proposals included provisions for ballot harvesting and a permanent early voters list, both of which Republicans deemed unnecessary and problematic.

Republican leaders emphasized individual responsibility in voting, suggesting that if citizens lack the initiative to participate, their votes may not be essential. Other Democratic proposals sought to implement ranked-choice voting and join the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, both of which face strong GOP resistance.

Gun control measures have also become a focal point of debate. Democratic proposals, including a law mandating safe gun storage in homes, have been met with staunch opposition from Republican legislators, who argue this infringes on constitutional rights. Gillette suggested that the emphasis should shift from gun restrictions to behavioral education, advocating for school-based firearms training as part of a broader approach to safety.

As discussions continue, both Leach and Gillette noted shifting priorities in Arizona schools, urging a return to resource officers over counselors to enhance security. Gillette indicated that educational methods should focus on practical and historical knowledge about firearms to prevent misuse.

Despite their efforts, Republican leaders remain skeptical about the likelihood of Democrats winning a majority in the upcoming elections, attributing Arizona’s growing population and success to Republican governance. Shope asserted, “You left the place that couldn’t sustain your job… Why would we change it to the place that you just left?”