Mesnard Aims for State Senate Comeback on the Wings of Historic Tax Cuts

By Staff Reporter |

Arizona State Senator J.D. Mesnard is poised to play a crucial role in the upcoming election, as he seeks re-election in Legislative District 13, which encompasses Chandler, Gilbert, and Sun Lakes. First elected to the Arizona legislature in 2011, Mesnard served eight years in the House, including a term as Speaker, before moving to the Senate in 2018.

Mesnard has established himself as a leading advocate for fiscal responsibility. He emphasizes the importance of keeping taxes low while managing government spending. “Reckless spending leads to higher taxes or burdens future generations with debt,” he states on his campaign website. He supports strategic investments in essential services like public safety and education but urges a disciplined approach to budgeting.

In 2021, Mesnard introduced SB 1828, historic legislation that established a flat tax rate for individual incomes in Arizona. His efforts also led to the passage of SB 1783, which provided significant tax reductions for small businesses. These measures received praise from then-Governor Doug Ducey, who highlighted their potential to bolster Arizona’s economic competitiveness.

Governor Ducey remarked on the necessity of cutting taxes, especially amidst challenging economic circumstances. “This tax cut will keep Arizona competitive for small businesses and incentivize new ones to establish here,” he noted. In support of the tax reforms, Mesnard reinforced the idea that small businesses are vital for the state’s economic future and should not be burdened by excessive taxation.

Other prominent advocates, including Tim Phillips and Grover Norquist, commended Arizona’s approach to tax reform in their writings, advocating for lower tax rates and limited government spending as a model for other states. They asserted that such measures would attract job-creating investments and empower citizens.

In a recent ruling, the Arizona Supreme Court affirmed these reforms, marking a significant victory for taxpayers. Scot Mussi, President of Arizona Free Enterprise, celebrated the court’s decision as a vital step for taxpayers across the state. He urged special interest groups to recognize the legitimacy of the legislative process.

Reflecting on the positive impact of his tax reform, Mesnard noted in a January 2023 newsletter that the changes resulted in a reduced tax rate of 2.5%, benefiting every Arizona family and positioning the state with the lowest flat tax in the nation. He encouraged constituents to consider adjusting withholding rates to maximize their take-home pay, especially amid rising living costs.

As one of Arizona’s most competitive districts, Legislative District 13 has seen a tightly contested history, with a narrow vote margin between Republicans and Democrats. Mesnard will face Democrat Sharon Winters in the November General Election. He appeals to voters for another term, underscoring his diverse experience and commitment to addressing the state’s economic challenges.