Fontes and Check Dive into Water and Party Politics

Democratic leaders addressed party challenges and essential water conservation efforts during a meeting at the Sedona Elks Lodge on January 12. Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes and newly-elected Yavapai County District 3 Supervisor Nikki Check spoke to gathered members of the Democrats of the Red Rocks.

“Managing our water is crucial,” Fontes stated. He emphasized the need for leadership to unify around this pressing issue. “You can’t make semiconductors without water. We need a cohesive water vision.”

He outlined an ambitious project aimed at revitalizing water areas, creating a riparian space from Tempe to Buckeye. Referencing the late Senator John McCain, Fontes highlighted the vision for Rio Salado 2.0. “It’s time for statewide leadership to step up,” he insisted.

The Arizona Reconsultation Committee collaborates with neighboring states and the U.S. Secretary of the Interior to manage Colorado River resources. Check highlighted the importance of innovative tools for water management in rural Arizona, where water mining presents growing challenges. “Greater Arizona deserves effective solutions,” she asserted.

In her remarks, Check acknowledged skepticism about her political stance as a Democrat in a predominantly Republican environment. “I hope to prove that bipartisan support can drive positive change,” she noted.

Fontes also spoke about the improvements he has made in the Secretary of State’s Office. “When I arrived, our Business Services Division was struggling. Now we’re significantly reducing call losses,” he shared, referring to an artificial intelligence advisory committee he established.

Reflecting on the November election results, Fontes expressed frustration at the Democratic party’s performance. “We fell short by one seat in each chamber. Arizona was poised for progress, and I’m deeply frustrated,” he said, urging party members to abandon fear and trepidation.

DORR President Ellen Ferreira highlighted the fragile political landscape, inviting attendees to a “don’t watch” party to avoid the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump on January 20. “We need to recognize our tenuous grip on this state,” she stated.

Check, who also celebrated her electoral victory, credited cross-party support as vital to her success. “I hope more Republicans will feel comfortable voting for me next time,” she said, reinforcing the potential for common-sense policies.

Party Affairs

Following the speeches, Ferreira awarded the Barbara Litrell Community Service Award to Karen McClellan, a member of the SOCSD Governing Board. The event also served as DORR’s annual meeting, where members elected new board members, including Diana Christensen, Randy Crewse, Lynne Grigg, and others.