Flake and McCain killed earmarks, an important conservative victory. Trump embraced deficit-swelling Keynesian stimulus. Yet it is Flake and McCain who are pariahs in today’s GOP.
On emergency powers reform, lawmakers only doing half the job
The Legislature should have a greater role in declaring emergencies. But the laws about what additional powers can be exercised in an emergency also need an overhaul.
Let community colleges offer four-year degrees
Allowing community colleges to offer four-year degrees would dramatically improve the state’s trajectory. A bill moving through the Legislature has unnecessary and harmful limitations, particularly for here in Maricopa County. Nevertheless, it’s time for this idea to gain a toehold in reality.
A serious flaw in Ducey’s gambling proposal
If there is to be a limited number of off-reservation gambling licenses, they should go to the highest qualified bidder, not given to politically favored organizations for a price to be determined later.
Some privileges Hoffman should check
Superintendent Kathy Hoffman gets slippy and disingenious about “fully funding” schools, while not standing against privilege where it really exists.
Election reform do’s and don’ts
Don’t restrict mail and early ballot alternatives. Do keep ballots out of the hands of political activists and reduce the number of blank, unused ballots floating around.
Arizona Supreme Court ends business subsidies. Maybe.
A recent high court decision could give the state Constitution’s anti-subsidy clause new life and greater reach.
Lessons from GameStop mania
Investment markets need protection, from both short-sellers and social-media mobs.
Senate GOP abuses subpoena power in election review ruckus
Senate Republicans are demanding that Maricopa County supervisors break the law to faciliate an election review that won’t be credible or trustworthy.
Sinema is wrong about keeping the virtual filibuster
Although she deserves credit for taking the political heat, the virtual filibuster promotes gridlock, not bipartisanship. Budget reconciliation will pose a truer test of Sinema’s commitment to bipartisanship.