Former State Representative Joseph Chaplik (R-3) is condemning Democrats on social media, accusing them of continually refusing to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which has resulted in hours-long wait times at airports.

On social media, Right Line News' Eric Daugherty shared a clip from CNN covering lengthy wait times at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Responding to the post, Chaplik wrote, "This is the aim of the obstructionist Democrats in Congress - They want the chaos. They cause the chaos. Then they attempt to blame it on Republicans. They can't hide their hatred for Americans."

In a second post shortly after, the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport posted that Security Checkpoints B and D in Terminal 4 are closed, advising travelers to arrive 2-3 hours earlier to ensure they can board their flights on time.

Chaplik also responded, writing, "The Democrats in D.C. want to make this the new normal."

"Ruining your vacation plans and causing chaos for business travelers is part of taking full control over travel in our country," he continued, adding that "America Last is their new slogan. To everyone being affected at PHX today - I will not stand by in Congress and let this continue."

Chaplik joins other Arizona Republicans in decrying the continued shutdown of DHS, as Representative Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) previously accused Democrats of "playing political games with our national security." "By refusing to fund DHS, TSA officers are doing their jobs without pay to keep us safe. We should prioritize those who protect us—not play politics," Ciscomani added.

Representative Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ) has been harsher in his response, commenting on the 31st day since the shutdown began with, "Day 31 of Democrats' reckless shutdown crippling @DHSgov operations."

Like Chaplik, Rep. Hamadeh also invoked the TSA lines at airports slowing to a crawl as "ruining family vacations & endangering American lives."

"Gallego, Kelly, & the rest of Schumer's Democrats must stop playing politics with our national security NOW."

The post Joseph Chaplik Claims Democrats 'Can't Hide Their Hatred for Americans' appeared first on Cactus Politics.

Arizona Republican lawmakers proposed a “strike-everything” amendment to sexual abuse allegations against Cesar Chavez, pushing to remove the labor icon's state holiday from Arizona law, following a New York Times investigation detailing claims he sexually abused women and girls during the 1970s.

House Speaker Steve Montenegro (R-AZ) set the tone early.

"We are not going to keep honoring a man who committed sexual abuse against children and assaulted women," he said, adding, "If even the Governor is stepping back from recognizing Cesar Chavez this year, then the Legislature needs to finish the job. Looking the other way is not leadership."

The repeal would move forward through a strike-everything amendment to HB 2072, introduced by Representative Lisa Fink (R-AZ) and carried in the Senate by Senator Shawnna Bolick (R-AZ), who will hear the measure in her Senate Regulatory Affairs and Government Efficiency Committee on March 25.

Rep. Fink said the legislation sends a necessary signal. "As long as this remains in statute, Arizona is still honoring that conduct," she said. "Repealing it is the right and responsible step, and it sends a clear message that we stand with victims."

Sen. Bolick, who has focused on victim protections during her tenure, said consistency is at the heart of the push. "We cannot say we stand with victims and then maintain laws that send a conflicting message," she said. "This is about ensuring Arizona law reflects a clear commitment to protecting victims and upholding accountability."

Furthermore, Senate President Warren Petersen (R-AZ) called the allegations heinous and urged members across the aisle to act. "Protecting children and holding predators accountable is a fundamental responsibility of government," he said. "This should receive unanimous, bipartisan support. Anything less would be a failure to stand with victims."

As the legislation moves forward, Arizona has shown little hesitation in responding, acting within days of the allegations becoming public and advancing the repeal through multiple chambers simultaneously.

The post New Legislative Amendment Would Erase Cesar Chavez Day from Arizona appeared first on Cactus Politics.

As nicotine poisoning cases among young Arizona children continue to sharply climb, and questions about teen usage trends emerge from new statewide data, state Representative Jeff Weninger (R-AZ) is pushing back.

The House passed his bill Wednesday, advancing legislation he says closes the gaps that have allowed predatory nicotine marketing to reach kids.

Rep. Weninger, who chairs the House Commerce Committee, sponsored HB 4001 after watching the market for alternative nicotine products, vapes, pouches, and similar items expand with little accountability.

"Arizona should not tolerate a market where nicotine products are packaged to look like toys and sold with weak oversight," he said. "This bill puts guardrails in place, holds bad actors accountable, and makes clear that if you are in this business, you are going to follow the law."

Growing Statistics

The urgency behind the legislation is backed by troubling data.

AzFamily reported that nicotine pouch ingestions among Arizona children under six rose from seven hospital admissions between 2019 and 2022 to 45 between 2022 and 2025.

Nationally, such poisonings spiked by more than 760% from 2020 to 2023. Nicotine ingestion in young children can trigger rapid heart rate, severe vomiting, and seizures.

However, teen vaping trends tell a mixed story.

Among teens, the 2024 Arizona Youth Survey, which collected responses from 42,247 students across all 15 Arizona counties, found that 30-day e-cigarette use has declined across all grade levels since 2022, dropping from 10.4% to 7.1% among 10th graders and from 15.0% to 12.5% among 12th graders.

Supporters of the bill argue that despite the encouraging trend, current protections have not gone far enough to keep nicotine products out of young hands.

Bill Combatting Issue

HB 4001 addresses the problem on multiple fronts.

Additonally, the bill aims to ban packaging that mimics toys, food, or electronics, strengthen age-verification requirements for retailers, and require manufacturers and distributors to be licensed under state law.

It also gives the Department of Liquor Licenses and Control new authority to inspect and enforce compliance.

Beginning January 1, 2028, consumable materials in alternative nicotine products sold in Arizona must be manufactured and assembled entirely in the United States.

Weninger framed the bill as a defense of responsible businesses as much as a crackdown on bad actors.

"HB 4001 backs responsible businesses and goes after the people who cut corners, ignore age limits, and target kids," he said. "Protect minors, enforce the rules, and make sure products sold in Arizona meet standards the public can trust."

The bill now heads to the Arizona Senate.

The post Arizona Cracks Down on Nicotine as Data Shows Mixed Results for Youth appeared first on Cactus Politics.

Representative Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) has introduced a bipartisan, bicameral bill extending the Cooperative Watershed Management Program (CWMP) for four additional years.

The CWMP provides federal funding to local non-regulatory watershed groups in the Western United States as part of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation's WaterSMART program.

In addition to extending the CWMP's sunset to 2031, the Cooperative Watershed Management Program Reauthorization Act provides the program with additional funding, raising it to $40 million per year.

"Southern Arizona knows firsthand how important it is to manage our water resources wisely," said Rep. Ciscomani in a press release. "The Cooperative Watershed Management Program helps bring local communities, tribes, farmers, and water managers together to develop practical, locally driven solutions to drought and long-term water security."

Rep. Ciscomani further emphasized his efforts to extend the program in the House Appropriations Committee, saying that he is "proud to introduce this legislation to strengthen and reauthorize the program so communities in Arizona's Sixth District and across the country can continue working together to protect and sustain our water resources for generations to come."

Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) are introducing the Senate companion bill.

Ciscomani's bill comes in the wake of Senator Mark Kelly's (D-AZ) Community Water Project Acceleration Act, which streamlines the federal review requirements for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Civil Works projects with limited federal funding, a system modeled after that used for federal highway projects.

The post Juan Ciscomani Plans to Extend Western Water Management Program appeared first on Cactus Politics.

The Goldwater Institute released a report this week examining required coursework inside two of Arizona's most prominent university honors programs, arguing that both institutions have shifted away from traditional academic standards toward what the organization describes as ideologically driven curriculum.

The Phoenix-based free-market policy organization's findings focus on Arizona State University's (ASU) Barrett Honors College and the University of Arizona's (UofA) Franke Honors College.

Currently, Arizona's two flagship universities are under growing political pressure to scale back Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

ASU is contending with legal challenges related to mandatory training and rebranding efforts, while the University of Arizona is conducting reviews of its DEI programs.

Both institutions have begun moving away from explicit "DEI" terminology in many of their programs, adopting broader language centered on "institutional excellence" or "inclusion" instead.

Current Seminars

However, among the courses highlighted in the report is a University of Arizona honors seminar titled "Eating the Globe: The Diverse, Weird, and Queer Food Politics," which asks students to examine connections between food systems and colonization.

Another seminar, "Cut and Paste: Constructing Identity through Collage," has students working with physical materials to explore themes of identity and political activism, an approach the report's authors contend does not meet the standards expected of honors-level coursework.

At Barrett, researchers claim that more than 70% of the sections reviewed in a required course called "The Human Event" incorporated materials related to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, as well as content the institute characterized as politically one-sided.

The report, titled "Desert Brain Drain," calls on Arizona legislators to respond by requiring Board of Regents oversight of honors faculty hiring and course syllabi and restricting state funding for what the institute describes as activist research. 

State Amendment

The report also calls on supporting a pending state constitutional amendment that would ban mandatory DEI coursework at public universities.

University representatives have not issued a formal public response to the report's conclusions.

The Goldwater Institute says the findings reflect a pattern seen at universities nationwide and is encouraging lawmakers in other states to review their own institutions' honors program requirements.

The post From 'Queer Food Politics' to DEI Rollbacks: Arizona's Universities Face Political Pressure appeared first on Cactus Politics.

Yee's ESA Scholarship Reforms

Arizona Treasurer Kimberly Yee has announced reforms to the state's Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) system to better protect taxpayer dollars.

ESAs are school vouchers that help parents pay for schools they believe are most suitable for their children, and Arizona prides itself on its reputation for... READ MORE

Senator Mark Kelly: I can't imagine how much courage it took Dolores Huerta, Ana Murgia, Debra Rojas, and others to speak out about the abuse they suffered at the hands of Cesar Chavez. They have carried this trauma and pain for decades, some since they were children. It's awful, and I stand with them and all victims of his abuse. In the last 24 hours, so many members of our community in Arizona and across the country have been absolutely devastated by this news. The fight for farmworkers rights has achieved so much and was built on the backs of thousands of men and women, not one person. Their work continues and improves the lives of Americans every day.

Senator Ruben Gallego: Americans are paying more at the pump because of Trump’s dumb war.

Representative Andy Biggs: For those in the East Valley heading out to @LukeAFB this weekend for the incredible air show, please bring plenty of water and sunscreen for the very warm temperatures we will be experiencing. Also, read up on what you can and cannot bring onto the base. Have a great time and be safe!

Representative Paul Gosar: If election integrity is “too much to ask,” what exactly are we defending? The American people aren’t interested in D.C. games—they want secure, trustworthy elections. Stand firm. Pass the SAVE Act.

Representative Eli Crane: Had the opportunity to sit down with Miss Navajo Nation 2025-26, Camille Uentillie, to discuss her priorities during her one-year term as a Goodwill Ambassador. I have a tremendous amount of respect for the good work being done to promote their language and culture.

Representative Abe Hamadeh: The Saenz family from Peoria, Arizona, stopped by before their Capitol tour to meet with Congressman Hamadeh. It was a pleasure meeting them and hearing from constituents back home!

Representative Greg Stanton: Every Tempe family deserves an affordable, safe place to call home. @MayorCoreyWoods and the City Council are doing the work locally, and I'm fighting to bring home federal dollars to back them up. This partnership isn't just talk. We're getting results.

Representative Yassamin Ansari: Speaking out is never easy, especially when it is against someone who was admired for so long. I have deep respect for the courage of those who have come forward to share their stories of abuse at the hands of Cesar Chavez. The fight for farmworkers has always been bigger than just one man. We can and must continue the movement, without honoring an abuser. As the Congresswoman representing Arizona’s 3rd District, which has always been an important center for that movement, I fully support the moves already being made to change place names. No one who has suffered abuse should have to suffer in silence, and no abuser should go without accountability.

Representative Adelita Grijalva: The American people want healthcare, not warfare.

Kimberly Yee Announces Scholarship Account Reforms— By Cactus Politics' Grayson Bakich—

Kris Mayes Files Criminal Charges Against Kalshi Betting Site— By Cactus Politics' Grayson Bakich— Arizona Attorney General (AG) Kris Mayes is bringing 20 criminal charges against prediction market website Kalshi, accusing it of operating an illegal gambling operation in the Grand Canyon State.

Pigeons Derailed Brian Garcia's Fight for Paid Leave— By Cactus Politics' Ericka Pinon— Representative Brian Garcia (D-AZ) came to Wednesday's Judiciary Committee hearing with a plan to force a conversation about paid family leave. He left with nothing except a story about pigeons.

Arizona Wildcats Enter March Madness as a Title Favorite— By Cactus Politics' Ericka Pinon— Members of Congress are caught up in the "March Madness" excitement as the Arizona Wildcats are viewed as the title favorite.

Dolores Huerta Breaks Silence, Arizona Strips Cesar Chavez Honors— By Cactus Politics' Ericka Pinon— Dolores Huerta, the 95-year-old civil rights icon and co-founder of the United Farm Workers, publicly accused the late César Chávez of sexual abuse on Wednesday, shattering a silence she had maintained for over six decades out of fear it would undermine the farmworker movement she devoted her life to building.

Andy Biggs, Eli Crane Decry Balanced Budget Amendment Failure— By Cactus Politics' Grayson Bakich— Representatives Andy Biggs (R-AZ) and Eli Crane (R-AZ) took to social media to express their thoughts on the failure of the former's Constitutional amendment requiring a balanced budget.

John Gillette Brands Mark Kelly a Liar Over SAVE America Act— By Cactus Politics' Grayson Bakich— State Representative John Gillette (R-30) has branded Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) a liar on social media over the battle to pass the SAVE America Act.

Yassamin Ansari Introduces Bicameral Bill Cracking Down on World Event Wagers— By Cactus Politics' Grayson Bakich— With people make serious money on betting websites like Polymarket and Kalshi by placing wagers on world events such as wars, government actions, and terror attacks, Representative Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ) has helped introduce a bicameral bill to prevent government officials from placing and profiting from these wagers as insiders.

Arizona Responds to Disturbing Allegations Against Cesar Chavez— By Cactus Politics' Ericka Pinon— A New York Times investigation has shaken the legacy of one of the most celebrated figures in Latino history, and Arizona, the state where César Chávez was born, is among the first to respond.

Mark Kelly Introduces Bipartisan Bill Streamlining Small Water Projects— By Cactus Politics' Grayson Bakich— Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) has introduced a bipartisan bill with Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) streamlining approval for small water projects nationwide.

The Snakebite is written by Grayson Bakich and Javier Manjarres

The post SNAKEBITE— 3.20.26— Yee's ESA Scholarship Reforms— Mayes vs. Kalshi— Pigeons Derail Garcia— March Madness, Dolores Huerta, Biggs & Crane, Much More... appeared first on Cactus Politics.

Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) have introduced a bipartisan bill expanding capital access opportunities for small businesses.

Currently, under the Dodd-Frank Act of 2010, small private fund advisers must register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) if they have $150 million in regulatory assets under management (RAUM). If they have less, they are exempt.

As a result, the Small Business Investor Capital Access Act raises the SEC registration exemption to $175 million in assets, allowing private fund advisers to invest more money in emerging businesses and startups.

"For too many small business owners, securing financing is still the hardest part of getting a business off the ground — and the problem runs deepest in communities that traditional lenders have long overlooked," said Sen. Gallego in a press release. "Small investment funds can fill that gap, but right now they are forced to spend time and money following the same expensive compliance rules as massive Wall Street firms."

Such a disparity, Sen. Gallego notes, "means these small funds have less capital to put towards startups and small businesses." Thus, "this bill modernizes an outdated $150 million threshold and ties it to inflation so smaller funds can direct resources toward supporting local job-creating investments."

Sen. Rounds, the bill's cosponsor, commented that "small businesses are the backbone of our economy, but too often they struggle to access the capital needed to expand and create jobs." Because of that, the legislative effort "removes unnecessary regulatory barriers that prevent small investment funds from directing capital to innovative startups and entrepreneurs, particularly in rural communities like many across South Dakota."

Gallego and Rounds previously teamed up in February to introduce the Enhancing Multi-Class Share Disclosures Act, which requires publicly traded companies (the kind where you can buy stocks and shares) with multi-class share systems to disclose shareholders' voting power, including the number of shares owned by specified persons and the amount of voting power held by specified persons (those who own 5% or more of the company's total voting power).

The post Ruben Gallego's Bipartisan Bill Targets Small Business' Capital Access appeared first on Cactus Politics.

Arizona Treasurer Kimberly Yee has announced reforms to the state's Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) system to better protect taxpayer dollars.

ESAs are school vouchers that help parents pay for schools they believe are most suitable for their children, and Arizona prides itself on its reputation for being school-choice-friendly.

However, in August, evidence emerged that approximately $124 million in ESA funds was spent on items such as luxury goods, appliances, and toys, rendering inadequate oversight of ESA funds.

Despite this, Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne recently pushed back against outlets reporting that 20% of ESA purchases are fraudulent, calling it "outrageous and reckless reporting" that is "completely false."

Nevertheless, Yee has said that the Treasury is working with the ESA marketplace vendor platform to ensure that it is both efficient and regulated to prevent such fraud, encouraging providers to share their innovations, including modern platform design, automation, and AI-driven tools, which could strengthen Arizona's ESA program.

"It is imperative that the State of Arizona's ESA platform vendor operates effectively, provides a user‑friendly system for Arizona families, and verifies that expenditures comply with Arizona law," said Yee in a press release. "Today I directed the Arizona State Treasurer's Office to publish a formal Request for Information (RFI) to invite potential vendors to share input on new and existing systems, capabilities, and technology platforms to support Arizona's growing ESA program."

As AZ Treasurer, Yee emphasized her duty to safeguard taxpayer dollars, saying, "The goal of this RFI is to identify the platform best suited to serve the 102,000 Arizona families currently benefiting from one of the nation's premier ESA programs."

"If there is a financial platform, or updates to the current platform, that can provide families with ESA program funds efficiently and identify any misspending or misuse, then Arizona taxpayers deserve to use that system."

The post Kimberly Yee Announces Scholarship Account Reforms appeared first on Cactus Politics.

Arizona Attorney General (AG) Kris Mayes is bringing 20 criminal charges against prediction market website Kalshi, accusing it of operating an illegal gambling operation in the Grand Canyon State.

AG Mayes cites the fact that Kalshi has hosted wagers on Arizona elections, including the 2028 Presidential election and the 2026 midterms for Governor, the Republican primary, and the Secretary of State race.

Other wagers allowed on Kalshi include bets on whether the SAVE America Act will be signed into law and unauthorized sports-focused betting.

Not only are election wagers illegal under Arizona law, but Kalshi is not licensed to operate in the state, which is why it preemptively sued Arizona first.

"Kalshi may brand itself as a 'prediction market,' but what it's actually doing is running an illegal gambling operation and taking bets on Arizona elections, both of which violate Arizona law," AG Mayes said in a press release. "No company gets to decide for itself which laws to follow. Arizona will not be bullied into letting any company place itself above state law."

The AG's lawsuit concurs with Representative Yassamin Ansari's (D-AZ) sponsorship of the Banning Event Trading on Sensitive Operations and Federal Functions (BETS OFF) Act, which prevents anyone who feasibly controls, and likely knows, the outcome of events such as government operations, military action, and even terror attacks, from placing wagers on websites like Kalshi and Polymarket.

The bill strengthens existing laws against illegal gambling, shutting down payment systems for illegal online platforms and imposing criminal penalties on U.S. citizens who promote, manage, own, or supervise these businesses.

"Prediction markets sell themselves as a place where everyone has an equal shot at winning big," said Rep. Ansari in a press release. "The reality is they're rigged against ordinary people and ripe for abuse – especially when betting on government actions."

The post Kris Mayes Files Criminal Charges Against Kalshi Betting Site appeared first on Cactus Politics.

Representative Brian Garcia (D-AZ) came to Wednesday's Judiciary Committee hearing with a plan to force a conversation about paid family leave. He left with nothing except a story about pigeons.

Rep. Garcia attempted to advance paid family and medical leave legislation during the hearing, only to be shut down on a procedural move before the topic could even be discussed.

The experience left him frustrated and vocal about his priorities.

Garcia introduced a "strike everything" amendment, a legislative tactic that replaces the contents of an existing bill with entirely new language.

He used it to insert a paid family leave policy into a piece of legislation he described as a bad bill, hoping to force a conversation on an issue he says Arizona families are desperate for.

The committee chair moved to call the question before Garcia's amendment could be heard, effectively ending the effort before it began.

Garcia's Connection

For Garcia, the issue is deeply personal.

His father was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer in 2019, and the family scrambled to provide care. He says that experience opened his eyes to how many Arizona families face the same impossible choice: either show up for a sick family member or keep a paycheck.

The bill Garcia was pushing, HB 2945 -- formally titled the Arizona Thriving Families Act -- would create a state-funded family and medical leave insurance program. Workers could receive up to 24 to 26 weeks of paid benefits for qualifying reasons, including a new child, a serious personal illness, caring for a sick family member, military deployment needs, or situations involving domestic violence.

Additionally, benefits would be funded jointly by employers and employees starting in 2028, with payments to eligible workers beginning in 2029.

Pigeon Law

However,  instead of debating any of that, the committee spent roughly 20 minutes on SB 1420, which would make feeding pigeons a finable offense in Arizona.

The legislation, introduced by Senator Frank Carroll (R-AZ), ​​would make it illegal to feed pigeons in Arizona, a measure that was prompted by complaints from Sun City residents dealing with large flocks leaving droppings in residential areas.

Current state law permits the feeding of birds and squirrels, so the bill would carve out pigeons specifically.

In the proposal, the first offense would result in a warning. A second would bring a $100 fine. A third would be classified as a petty offense. 

The penalties would also extend to residents who fail to properly dispose of food scraps or garbage that pigeons can access. Several Arizona cities, including Phoenix, already have local ordinances banning pigeon feeding, though fines vary by municipality.

The pigeon bill itself ultimately failed on a 3–6 vote in committee, but Garcia argued the message was already clear.

"The majority chose to prioritize pigeons instead of your family," Garcia concluded.

The post Pigeons Derailed Brian Garcia's Fight for Paid Leave appeared first on Cactus Politics.

Members of Congress are caught up in the "March Madness" excitement as the Arizona Wildcats are viewed as the title favorite.

Representative Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ), whose district includes Tucson, posted on X Wednesday that he and his son, Juan David, had filled out their NCAA brackets and, despite disagreeing on a few matchups, landed on the same Final Four pick: the Arizona Wildcats to win it all.

It's hard to argue with them.

Arizona heads into the tournament riding one of the strongest seasons in recent program history.

The University of Arizona News reported that the Wildcats went 32-2 overall and 16-2 in Big 12 play, won the conference's regular season crown, and capped it off with a conference tournament title.

UofA's Player Recognition

The run included a last-second shot from UofA’s senior guard Jaden Bradley to edge Iowa State, before the team held off Houston in the championship.

Bradley walked away as Big 12 Player of the Year, while head coach Tommy Lloyd was honored as the conference's top coach. Forward Tobe Awaka earned unanimous Sixth Man of the Year recognition.

Additionally, freshman Brayden Burries leads the offense with nearly 16 points per game, though Arizona's scoring is spread across the roster; seven players average at least 9 points per night.

Arizona is Ranking High

Statistically, Arizona ranks among the nation's elite.

The team's scoring margin sits sixth in the country, and the analytics platform KenPom places the Wildcats second in overall efficiency. They rank fourth nationally in rebounding and eighth in opponent field goal percentage allowed.

Seeded first in the West region, Arizona opens tournament play Friday morning against Long Island University at Viejas Arena in San Diego, with tip-off scheduled for 10:35 a.m. on TNT.

A second-round game against either Villanova or Utah State would follow Sunday if they advance. The road to the title runs through the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight in San Jose, with the Final Four and championship game both set for Indianapolis in early April.

For Tucson and its congressman, the prediction is already on paper. Now it's up to the Wildcats to make it official.

The post Arizona Wildcats Enter March Madness as a Title Favorite appeared first on Cactus Politics.

Dolores Huerta, the 95-year-old civil rights icon and co-founder of the United Farm Workers, publicly accused the late César Chávez of sexual abuse on Wednesday, shattering a silence she had maintained for over six decades out of fear it would undermine the farmworker movement she devoted her life to building.

Her statement followed a New York Times investigation into sexual misconduct allegations against Chávez, who died in 1993.

Huerta described two separate encounters in the 1960s, the first involving manipulation and pressure, the second she described as forced. Both resulted in pregnancies.

She arranged for the children to be raised by other families, keeping the truth hidden until just weeks ago.

"I have never identified myself as a victim, but I now understand that I am a survivor," Huerta wrote, adding that learning that other women, including teenage girls, had also been harmed by Chávez compelled her to finally speak.

The fallout in Arizona was swift and bipartisan.

Arizona's Condemnation

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego (D-AZ) announced that the City Council will vote on March 25 to rename the municipal holiday honoring Chávez as Farmworkers Day and begin removing his name from city buildings and street signs.

"What we've learned about Chavez's behavior is shocking and appalling, and he does not embody the values of our city," Mayor Gallego said.

Senate President Warren Petersen (R-AZ) called the allegations "predatory" and "evil," stating that Arizona would not formally recognize César Chávez Day this year.

He also suggested the state should permanently discontinue the holiday if the allegations prove true.

Legislative Democrats echoed those sentiments. Senate and House Democratic leaders said the allegations were "painful and difficult," while affirming that no leader, regardless of their legacy, stands above accountability.

Additionally, the Arizona Latino Legislative Caucus condemned the reported behavior as "reprehensible," while also emphasizing that the broader farmworker movement was built by thousands of people and remains larger than any single individual.

Dolores Huerta's Voice

Huerta herself closed her statement on a similar note, separating Chávez's actions from the movement's lasting achievements, and reaffirming her commitment to workers and women's rights.

Her heart, she wrote, aches for everyone who suffered alone and in silence, expressing that "there are no words strong enough to condemn those deplorable actions that he did."

"My silence ends here."

The post Dolores Huerta Breaks Silence, Arizona Strips César Chávez Honors appeared first on Cactus Politics.

Representatives Andy Biggs (R-AZ) and Eli Crane (R-AZ) took to social media to express their thoughts on the failure of the former's Constitutional amendment requiring a balanced budget.

Rep. Biggs had originally introduced the bill in early 2025, but the legislative effort died Wednesday on the House floor, with 207 votes in favor and 211 against. Only a single Democrat voted in favor.

"Despite today's setback, I will never stop fighting to restore fiscal discipline, rein in out-of-control spending, and put our nation back on a sustainable path," Rep. Biggs posted on X. "The American people demand a government that is accountable, responsible, and committed to protecting their future - not bankrupting it."

In a longer statement included in his post, the Arizona congressman further expressed that "for decades, both parties have talked about fiscal responsibility while racking up trillions in debt and passing the bill to our children and grandchildren."

"The failure of this amendment is a stark reminder that there is no political will to rein in spending in Washington," Biggs continued. "Instead of making the tough decisions today, Congress continues to kick the can down the road, fueling inflation, weakening our economy, and threatening America's long-term stability."

Rep. Crane responded to a post by CSPAN's Craig Caplan, who noted that Democratic leadership told its members to vote against the bill, with Representative Henry Cuellar (D-TX) being the sole vote in favor.

"Democrat leaders urged their members to vote no. Think about that. A simple balanced budget amendment," Rep. Crane responded to Caplan's post.

In a March 2024 interview with Cactus Politics, Representative David Schweikert (R-AZ) suggested that a balanced budget is still possible "if you built enough shock absorbers into it, but the math? We actually missed the window to do it truly and honestly about a dozen years ago."

A solution, he posited, is that "you would actually design it so your first trigger is current borrowing needs to not exceed current growth in the economy. So if the economy expands, so [Gross Domestic Product] expands by $1 trillion, that is your cap. You cannot borrow more than that."

The post Andy Biggs, Eli Crane Decry Balanced Budget Amendment Failure appeared first on Cactus Politics.

Gillette vs. Kelly on SAVE Act

State Representative John Gillette (R-30) has branded Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) a liar on social media over the battle to pass the SAVE America Act.

The Arizona Democrat has posted on social media that... READ MORE

Governor Katie Hobbs: It was an honor to welcome Arizona educators to the Capitol today during their spring break. As Governor, and the sister of public school teachers—I’ll keep fighting to invest in our public schools, support educators, and renew Prop 123. Our kids deserve the best.

AZ Attorney General Kris Mayes: Kalshi is running an illegal gambling operation and taking bets on Arizona elections, both of which violate Arizona law. No company gets to decide for itself which laws to follow.

State Senator Warren Petersen: The bill to designate Charlie Kirk Loop 202 has now passed both chambers of the Arizona Legislature and is headed to the governor’s desk. We’ve named sections of freeways after Democrats before — that’s nothing new. Surely we can show the same bipartisan spirit by honoring a courageous Republican who was assassinated for boldly exercising his First Amendment rights and defending freedom of speech. Charlie Kirk devoted his life to empowering young Americans to think critically, reject indoctrination, and stand unapologetically for liberty. His voice was silenced by violence, but his legacy of fearless advocacy should live on — starting with this fitting tribute on one of Arizona’s busiest freeways. Let’s hope the governor does the right thing and signs it. Honoring those who die in defense of our fundamental freedoms shouldn’t be a partisan issue.

State Representative Alma Hernandez: A great night for the pro-Israel Jewish community and a tough one for candidates who chose division. Tonight’s results send a clear message: campaigns built on attacking Israel and vilifying pro-Israel Americans aren’t resonating with voters and sure as hell won’t help you win. Voters showed they’re looking for leadership that builds bridges, not rhetoric that deepens divides. The takeaway is hard to ignore negativity & polarization aren’t a winning strategy. Goodbye to the “tea party Dems” and hateful bigots who thought leaning into the Progressives Anti Israel rhetoric would win. Every single one lost. Buenas noches!

State Representative Cody Reim: Today in my first floor session I had the honor of voting for the Charlie Kirk highway bill. Even though I never had the opportunity to meet Charlie, he has been a mentor to me, and my young boys and a profound leader for Liberty. On behalf of my family, myself and LD3, we passed this bill to honor his legacy for his family and for Charlie!

State Representative Consuelo Hernandez: Thank you everyone for your support! My first bill has moved out of senate public safety committee. HB2923 is a step forward to studying the lack of access to mental healthcare in our prisons in memory of Joshua Fox who committed suicide and killed his father.

State Representative Nick Kupper: Drugging kids to try & fit them into your mental delusion is not parental choice, it’s child abuse plain & simple. Maybe don’t eff your kid up.

State Representative Quang Nguyen: The AZ House of Representatives honored the crew of the USS Arizona today. I was pleasantly surprised that LT Sarah Nguyen was watching the event from wherever she was at. She then sent me this photo to remind me that she is an Arizonan serving on the USS New Jersey, SSN-796. God bless our Submariners.

State Representative Pamela Carter: When someone on a planning and zoning commission has a financial interest in a project — they shouldn't be voting on it. Period. HB 2374 is a straightforward government accountability measure. It requires county planning and zoning commissioners to disclose any substantial interest they or their relatives have in land being considered by the commission — and to recuse themselves from voting. This is about trust in local government. When developers come before zoning boards, residents deserve to know that the people making decisions don't have a personal financial stake in the outcome. Good government starts with transparency. As someone who stood against the Axon bill to protect local decision-making, I'm committed to ensuring our communities have a real voice in the decisions that shape their neighborhoods. Learn more at http://pamelacarter.com #Pamela4AZ #GovernmentAccountability #LocalControl #AZLeg #LD4 #Transparency #Arizona

John Gillette Brands Mark Kelly a Liar Over SAVE America Act— By Cactus Politics' Grayson Bakich—

Yassamin Ansari Introduces Bicameral Bill Cracking Down on World Event Wagers— By Cactus Politics' Grayson Bakich— With people make serious money on betting websites like Polymarket and Kalshi by placing wagers on world events such as wars, government actions, and terror attacks, Representative Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ) has helped introduce a bicameral bill to prevent government officials from placing and profiting from these wagers as insiders.

Arizona Responds to Disturbing Allegations Against Cesar Chavez— By Cactus Politics' Ericka Pinon— A New York Times investigation has shaken the legacy of one of the most celebrated figures in Latino history, and Arizona, the state where César Chávez was born, is among the first to respond.

Mark Kelly Introduces Bipartisan Bill Streamlining Small Water Projects— By Cactus Politics' Grayson Bakich— Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) has introduced a bipartisan bill with Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) streamlining approval for small water projects nationwide.

Government Shutdown Strains TSA as White House Pushes for Deal— By Cactus Politics' Ericka Pinon— Over a month into the partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Representative Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) sharply criticized Democrats for what he called political games endangering national security.

Arizona Abortion Funding Bill Fails in House as Debate Over Reproductive Rights Continues— By Cactus Politics' Ericka Pinon— An Arizona bill, introduced by Representative Walt Blackman (R-AZ), that would have directed state money toward nonprofit pregnancy resource centers died in the House this week, drawing swift reaction from Democrats and renewing attention on one of the Legislature's most outspoken abortion opponents.

Eli Crane's North Rim Restoration Act Passes House— By Cactus Politics' Grayson Bakich— Representative Eli Crane's (R-AZ) North Rim Restoration Act has passed the House of Representatives unanimously and is now heading to the Senate.

Montenegro Moves to Position Itself as a National Leader in Artificial Intelligence— By Cactus Politics' Ericka Pinon— House Speaker Steve Montenegro (R-AZ) is throwing his support behind a new statewide artificial intelligence (AI) coalition, signaling that the Legislature intends to play an active role in shaping how the technology transforms the state's economy.

Mark Kelly Demands Answers from Defense Secretary Over 'No Quarter' Remarks— By Cactus Politics' Ericka Pinon— Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) is calling on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to clarify what he meant when he publicly declared there would be "no quarter" shown to enemies of the United States.

Abe Hamadeh Marks Day 31 of DHS Shutdown, Scorches Senate Democrats— By Cactus Politics' Grayson Bakich— Representative Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ) is marking Day 31 of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown on social media, blasting Senate Democrats for refusing to budge on reopening it.

The Snakebite is written by Grayson Bakich and Javier Manjarres

The post SNAKEBITE— 3.19.26— Gillette vs. Kelly on SAVE America Act— Ansari's Anti-Event Gambling Bill— Cesar Chavez Allegations, Water, Ciscomani, Abortion, Much More... appeared first on Cactus Politics.

State Representative John Gillette (R-30) has branded Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) a liar on social media over the battle to pass the SAVE America Act.

The Arizona Democrat has posted on social media that "the SAVE America Act doesn't 'Save' America." He added that the issue isn't over voter ID. Instead, "This bill requires everyone to re-register to vote in person and your driver's license, REAL ID, or military ID aren't even good enough."

"Imagine all of our seniors who don't have valid passports and haven't seen their birth certificates in decades? What about them?" Sen. Kelly questioned. "How hard will it be for them to register? And how do they get a passport if they can't find their birth certificates? And what about the cost? If this becomes law, it will disenfranchise many Americans."

Firing back on social media, State Rep. Gillette responded, "This is a 100% lie. You should be ashamed. This is more than political spin...it's an outrageous lie. This shows us all who you are."

State Rep. Gillette is the latest Republican to air his grievances over the SAVE America Act on social media.

Last week, Representative Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ) responded to Senator John Thune's (R-SD) announcement that he would bring the bill to the floor, writing, "Americans don’t need another demonstration that Democrats don’t care about election integrity. We KNOW that already. They need the security measures in the SAVE America Act."

Representative Paul Gosar (R-AZ) also called for the Senate to nuke the filibuster if it means getting the bill passed.

Earlier in March, the White House shared a poll showing 71% of respondents supported the SAVE America Act, saying, "This legislation enjoys overwhelming support from the American people — yet Radical Left Democrat politicians continue to obstruct it, choosing partisan power plays over national security and the will of the people."

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With people make serious money on betting websites like Polymarket and Kalshi by placing wagers on world events such as wars, government actions, and terror attacks, Representative Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ) has helped introduce a bicameral bill to prevent government officials from placing and profiting from these wagers as insiders.

The Banning Event Trading on Sensitive Operations and Federal Functions (BETS OFF) Act prevents anyone who feasibly controls, and likely knows, the outcome of such an event from placing a bet on it on such platforms.

The bill strengthens existing laws against illegal gambling, shutting down payment systems for illegal online platforms and imposing criminal penalties on U.S. citizens who promote, manage, own, or supervise these businesses.

This concern was sparked at the beginning of March, when "Operation Epic Fury" began. A Polymarket user named "Magamyman" won a $553,000 bet that the United States would strike Iran and kill Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.

Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) claimed, without evidence, that someone in the Trump Administration is "Magamyman," but the White House denied it.

Nevertheless, because Polymarket and Kalshi frequently host such wagers, pressure is mounting to prevent government officials from profiting from them.

"Prediction markets sell themselves as a place where everyone has an equal shot at winning big," said Rep. Ansari in a press release. "The reality is they're rigged against ordinary people and ripe for abuse – especially when betting on government actions."

"When the President and national security officials are making life and death decisions, the last thing they should be considering is whether they can personally profit," she commented. "This bill puts an end to that corruption and disturbing national security risk."

The primary sponsors of the bill are Sen. Murphy and Senator John Hickenlooper (D-CO) in the Senate, while the primary sponsor in the House is Representative Greg Casar (D-TX), joined by Representatives Gabe Amo (D-RI) and Rashida Tlaib (D-MI).

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A New York Times investigation has shaken the legacy of one of the most celebrated figures in Latino history, and Arizona, the state where César Chávez was born, is among the first to respond.

The investigation, based on interviews with more than 60 people, alleges that Chávez, the United Farm Workers co-founder, sexually abused multiple women and girls during the height of his civil rights career in the 1970s.

Two women, Ana Murguia and Debra Rojas, both now 66 and daughters of longtime movement organizers, allege that Chávez sexually abused them for years when they were children.

Murguia says the abuse began at age 13 and continued for four years, while Rojas says she was first inappropriately touched at 12 and raped at 15.

Both women stayed silent for decades, citing shame and a desire to protect Chávez's public image. However, for a state that has long honored Chávez with streets, schools, and parks named after him, the allegations have prompted swift, somber reactions.

Arizona Reactions

AzFamily reported that Governor Katie Hobbs (D-AZ) has directed for the state to not recognize the day dedicated to Chavez.

"The Governor's Office is deeply concerned by the troubling allegations against César Chávez," her office said in a statement. "As a social worker who worked with homeless youth and victims of domestic violence, Governor Hobbs takes allegations of inappropriate sexual behavior against women and minors very seriously."

Arizona is home to numerous tributes to Chávez, who was born in Yuma and grew up in a farmworking family before becoming a nationally recognized labor leader.

His birthday, March 31, has been observed as a commemorative day in several states since California first established it.

Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ) also weighed in, expressing support for the victims while urging the public not to lose sight of the broader movement Chávez represented.

"I know that there is a profound sense of grief in our community today," she said, acknowledging that the news "may bring mixed emotions." She added, "It is ok to feel angry, shocked, heartbroken, saddened, confused, and dismayed — all at the same time... it is important to remember that one person does not define a movement."

Foundations Response

The Cesar Chavez Foundation said it was "deeply shocked and saddened" and announced that it is partnering with the UFW to create a confidential process for those who wish to come forward.

"We ask for our community’s patience as we learn more. Throughout this process, our organization and our partners in the movement will continue our work together to protect and uplift the families and communities that we serve," the statement continued.

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Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) has introduced a bipartisan bill with Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) streamlining approval for small water projects nationwide.

The Community Water Project Acceleration Act streamlines the federal review requirements for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Civil Works projects with limited federal funding, a system modeled after that used for federal highway projects.

The bill creates an exemption to water projects from the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) if the federal contribution is less than $6 million, if it is less than 15% of the total project cost, and only if the work is being conducted by a non-federal sponsor.

"In Arizona and across the West, communities need reliable water infrastructure and shouldn't have to wait months or even years to put federal funds to use because of unnecessary red tape," said Sen. Kelly in a press release. "This is a commonsense fix that makes it easier, not harder, for local projects to move forward faster while protecting the environment."

Sen. Lummis, the bill's cosponsor, touted the effort, commenting, "Washington's permitting delays have real consequences for western communities that depend on reliable water infrastructure." "There is no reason local water projects should face years of federal review when the funding and local support are already in place, and every month of unnecessary delay is a month rural communities across the west go without the water system it needs to thrive."

"Our legislation cuts through that bureaucracy by applying a model already proven in federal highway projects and is exactly the kind of practical, results-driven legislation western states deserve," he concluded.

In July, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), introduced the Water Infrastructure Modernization Act, which authorizes $50 million in grants for communities to develop and invest in tech that detects and tracks water loss and leaks, calculates pipe integrity, improves storage methods, and prepares for extreme weather.

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