In Their Own Words: Insights from Tony West

Tony West, a dedicated public servant and Republican politician, served in the Arizona Legislature for over a decade, from 1973 to 1988. A resolution honoring his contributions recognized his commitment to rigorous anticrime measures and fiscal conservatism. Beyond these initiatives, West was instrumental in establishing programs for the hearing impaired and securing funding for crime victim compensation.

After his legislative tenure, West became Arizona’s state treasurer from 1991 to 1998. During this period, he played a key role in passing Proposition 102, a significant measure allowing the State Permanent Land Trust to invest in equity securities, which notably increased the fund’s balance.

West’s career faced a major setback in 1999 when the Arizona Supreme Court removed him from his position on the Arizona Corporation Commission due to conflicts of interest related to securities sales during his campaign.

West passed away on January 14, 2016, at the age of 78. A rancher whose family was pioneering in the cotton industry, West’s legacy is highlighted through his candid reflections, shared as part of the Arizona State Library Oral History Project.

His political journey included challenging moral dilemmas. In discussing capital punishment, West revealed a conflict between his pro-life beliefs and his support for the death penalty for heinous crimes. This decision left a lasting impact on him, illustrating the weight of legislative choices.

Reflecting on his entry into politics, West shared how Speaker of the House Tim Barrow invited him to run for a seat in 1972. He emphasized a collaborative approach with fellow candidates, showcasing his commitment to public service and teamwork.

West recalled his time as part of the so-called “Wrecking Crew,” a moniker initially used derogatorily by political writer John Kolbe. This group sought to instigate spending reforms, bringing focus to the budget process and advocating for funding parity between Arizona State University and the University of Arizona. Their struggle involved negotiating significant budget allocations, emphasizing the importance of equity in state funding.