Bolick’s Bold Return: Championing School Choice in the Arizona Senate

By Staff Reporter | Arizonanews.org

A pivotal figure in the Arizona Legislature, State Senator Shawnna Bolick, looks to secure her position and continue the Republicans’ hold on the Senate chamber for the upcoming sessions.

Bolick, appointed in July 2023 after former State Senator Steve Kaiser’s sudden resignation, is seeking her first full term. The Phoenix-based politician had previously served two terms in the Arizona House of Representatives from 2019 to 2023. She returned to the legislature after a brief hiatus, during which she focused on family and personal priorities.

In an interview, Bolick revealed that her family was downsizing and preparing for extensive travel. While abroad, she received the call that led to her reappointment — first in London, then in Prague. Her travel plans were put on hold as she re-entered the realm of public service, embracing the rigorous demands of legislating and campaigning.

Bolick cites the current political landscape as a driving force for her return, emphasizing the need to address national inflationary policies and state-specific issues. She stated, “We are facing challenging times fighting Biden’s inflationary policies at the national level and Hobbs’ woke policies that are driving a stake between families and a growing nanny government.” Bolick aims to help maintain the Republican majority and safeguard educational freedom.

Her passion for education is deeply rooted. Inspired by William Bennett’s book, “The Devaluing of America: The Fight for Our Culture and Children,” Bolick transitioned from a potential writing career to one focused on education reform. Her early experience in a New York City public school in 1997 highlighted the importance of school choice, particularly for low-income families.

Bolick’s advocacy for multiple educational options has been a significant aspect of her career. She recounted efforts in New York City to inform families about alternative schooling options, emphasizing the empowerment and hope that come with having choices. These experiences solidified her commitment to public service and educational opportunities.

In her current role, Bolick serves as the Vice Chairman of the Senate Finance and Commerce Committee and is a member of the Education Committee. Among her legislative achievements, she highlights her sponsorship of Proposition 313, which aims to impose life sentences on child sex traffickers. She hopes its passage will convey Arizona’s firm stance against child exploitation.

Looking ahead, Bolick has several policy initiatives in mind, particularly addressing school bullying. She acknowledges the severity of the issue and the need for comprehensive solutions to prevent prolonged absences due to bullying.

Arizona’s Legislative District 2 remains a highly competitive battleground with a narrow vote margin. Bolick faces Josh Barnett in the Republican primary, with the winner set to challenge unopposed Democrat Judy Schwiebert in the general election.

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