Monthly Archives: November 2011

Statement from Senate Leadership on the Governor’s decision not to call a special session on redistricting

“We are disappointed in Governor Brewer’s decision this afternoon to not call a Special Session on redistricting. After all the unconstitutional decisions and alleged violations of law by IRC Chair Mathis,Arizonavoters deserve the opportunity to revisit the concept of an … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized

Senator Smith talks teacher pay

Senator Steve Smith of Maricopa appeared on CBS 5 Morning News to discuss his proposal for teacher pay for performance http://www.kpho.com/video?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=6483342

Posted in Education

New Senator Sworn In

In a ceremony on the floor of the State Senate, Jerry Lewis was sworn in on Tuesday. The Mesa Republican will represent LD 18. Arizona Chief Justice Rebecca White Berch adminstered the oath of office. Lewis was joined by his … Continue reading

Posted in New Senator

President-elect Pierce on the filings to the Arizona Supreme Court on the Colleen Mathis removal

“The Governor and the State Senate have clear constitutional authority to remove an IRC member. When the Court inserts itself into this process, it has an obligation to explain its actions clearly. On Thursday the Court not only disregarded the … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized

Senate and Governor Brewer file legal motions to Supreme Court

Call for clarity on Court’s ruling to reinstate IRC Chair This afternoon Governor Brewer and the Arizona State Senate filed legal motions with the Arizona Supreme Court. The Governor and Senate are requesting  the Court reconsider last week’s ruling to … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized

A 40-foot reminder of the devastation in Arizona’s forests

Senator Sylvia Allen organized an event on November 17 to remind the people of Arizona of the devastation of this summer’s wildfires and the federal government’s incompetence with forest management. Her constituents from District 5 brought a 40-foot Blue Spruce … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized

Senator Steve Pierce chosen as new Senate President

The Majority Caucus on Thursday chose Senator Steve Pierce of Prescott as the new Senate President. Senator Andy Biggs of Gilbert will remain Majority Leader, and Senator Frank Antenori of Tucson will serve as Majority Whip. Senator Pierce is a … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized

“School choice and private school vouchers” by Senator Michele Reagan

School choice in Arizona involves several components: 1) Open enrollment for public district schools. 2) Public charter schools 3) Individual and corporate scholarship tax credits. 4) Accommodating homeschool laws. 5) Distance learning opportunities. 6) Now empowerment savings accounts for disabled … Continue reading

Posted in Education

Marines Celebrate Birthday at Senate

November 10 was the 236th birthday of the United States Marine Corps, and Arizona Marines chose to celebrate on the Senate floor.  The Marine Corps was founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on November 10, 1775.  Arizona is home to the Marine … Continue reading

Posted in Military Affairs

Democrats’ Method of Governing: Boycott Meetings and Start Recalls

As Republicans prepare for another legislative session focused on getting Arizona back to work and improving our economy, Democrats have embraced a curious strategy of boycotting meetings and threatening recalls against Republicans who don’t vote with them.   “Recalls have never … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized