GOP Senator Faces Backlash for Using State Resources to Endorse Cottonwood Council Candidate

Flagstaff Republican State Senator Wendy Rogers has come under scrutiny for allegedly violating Arizona’s version of the Hatch Act. This act prohibits governmental officials from using state resources for political campaigns, a rule Rogers seems to have disregarded by endorsing a candidate for Cottonwood City Council on official Senate letterhead.

In a now-deleted social media post on X, previously Twitter, Rogers expressed her support for Lisa DuVernay, who is currently facing a recall election. “The swamp comes after her, yet SHE STANDS STRONG!” Rogers wrote, emphasizing the need for “WARRIORS” like DuVernay, who she claims fights for rural cities in Arizona.

The endorsement, which included a screenshot of a letter on official Senate stationery, stated that Rogers “wholeheartedly” supports DuVernay. According to attorney Tom Ryan, this action constitutes a “clear cut violation” of Arizona’s Hatch Act. He noted that the use of the state seal and Senate logo gives the appearance that the entire Senate endorses DuVernay.

Shortly after inquiries from the Arizona Mirror about the endorsement letter, Rogers removed the post from her social media accounts. The same content was found on platforms such as Facebook, Telegram, and Gab but has since been taken down as well.

In response to Rogers’ post, DuVernay publicly thanked her on X. Meanwhile, both Senate President Warren Petersen and Rogers have not provided comments regarding the controversy. The Arizona Attorney General’s Office also refrained from commenting on the situation or potential legal violations. Spokesman Richie Taylor indicated that they would not discuss any investigation at this time.

DuVernay’s recall was initiated following her controversial actions at a city council meeting, where she allegedly displayed pornographic material to criticize drag shows. She had also threatened legal action against city officials for not drafting an ordinance to ban such performances, despite a similar proposal being previously rejected.

Rogers has highlighted DuVernay’s opposition to drag shows in her endorsement, praising her courage and commitment to the community. Amongst her remarks, Rogers stated, “Councilmember DuVernay stands for the people. She is an unflinching, courageous and stalwart defender of freedom. We champion her! Reelect Councilmember Lisa DuVernay!”

In light of these events, Democratic leaders in the Arizona Senate have formally requested an investigation into Rogers’ use of public resources for her endorsement. They highlighted the inappropriate usage of Senate letterhead and the state seal, asking Attorney General Kris Mayes to investigate the actions surrounding the letter’s creation and distribution.

This incident is not unprecedented. In 2022, then-Senate President Karen Fann faced backlash for using Senate resources to support a gubernatorial candidate. Additionally, in 2019, 28 public officials were fined for similar violations involving campaign activities against a clean energy initiative.