State pension program are collectively $24 billion underfunded. Paying down that debt is a wiser use of resources than establishing a big-dollar sinking fund for unspecified water augmentation projects.
Category Archives: State and local
Redistricting Commission sputters to a close
New congressional map greatly enhances Republican prospects. New legislative map expands the playing field for Democrats. Plus a reform that would improve the process.
A possible grand bargain on taxes on education spending
Arizona can have an income tax cut and a big increase in voter-protected K-12 spending, if the antagonists can pause the fighting long enough to see and seize the opportunity.
Sinema should accept the message and become an independent
Sinema is wrong about the filibuster, but the attacks on her by progressives are demagogic nonsense.
Arizona Supreme Court comes up short in budget bills ruling
The decision may not have as big of an effect on how the Legislature puts together future budgets as expected.
The political paradox that is Doug Ducey
Despite seven years of generally successful center-right governance, the business community is his only steadfast constituency.
Forecast is for a miserable legislative session
An unprepared Legislature is facing monumental uncertainty on both policy and politics.
Why is Arizona providing tax-exempt financing to out-of-state projects?
The Legislature should curtail the activities of the Arizona Industrial Development Authority.
Queen Creek water deal a step in the right direction
Before expensive augmentation projects are undertaken, water markets and pricing should be fully explored as a way to balance supply and demand.
Redistricting Commission can’t fix what’s wrong with Arizona politics
Gerrymandering the state for race and competitiveness won’t result in better general election choices. Only a nonpartisan top-two primary can do that.