Emerging Talent: Meet Tony Rivero

Republican Tony Rivero has returned to the Arizona legislature, representing District 27 after a two-term break. Having first been elected a decade ago, Rivero served until 2020, during which he championed various criminal justice initiatives. His efforts included proposals to enhance opportunities for criminal record expungement and allow judges more discretion in mandatory minimum sentencing.

One of Rivero’s notable achievements came in 2017 when he succeeded in passing legislation that granted state licensing authorities the flexibility to issue regular or provisional licenses to qualified applicants with criminal convictions. This marked a significant shift in how the justice system approached rehabilitation and reintegration.

Additionally, Rivero has long advocated for syringe service programs aimed at reducing the transmission of HIV, hepatitis, and other bloodborne infections through the provision of sterile syringes. While he did not see his own legislation pass, similar measures were enacted in 2021 thanks to Sens. T.J. Shope and Nancy Barto.

On his campaign website, Rivero emphasizes his commitment to “Fiscal Responsibility and Open Government.” This focus has been evident throughout his political career, including his introduction of a bill to eliminate state income taxes entirely. His vocal criticisms of budgets he deemed unsatisfactory, including a threat to be a holdover on the 2019 budget, underscore his conservative principles.