Email Release
Fellow Arizonans and friends:
Today marks the beginning of a new Legislative session, and the first State of the State address of our newly elected governor. I hope it marks the beginning of a new day for our state.
Arizona’s economy has not recovered alongside the rest of the nation. Our schools have taken cuts among the deepest in the United States. We are known around the country for divisive politics manifested in SB 1070 and SB1062. Public confidence in government is low.
It is time for change.
I had hoped to lead that change and am grateful for your support. But it was not to be.
Governor Ducey starts with a tough budget and a very conservative legislature. I met with him a few weeks ago and we had a direct and meaningful conversation. I expect our conversations to continue. I strongly urged him to speak to the needs – and inclusion – of all Arizonans. Build an Arizona where everyone has the opportunity to receive an education, advance and succeed. I hope he will lead to middle ground that moves Arizona Forward. And the tone of his speeches thus far gives me reason for that hope. But now we begin policy making.
I hope he will settle the Cave Creek lawsuit and put Arizona’s schools on solid financial footing.
I hope he will veto any new discriminatory legislation and restrictions on reproductive choice.
I hope he will lead a real and sustainable job recovery.
I hope he will support efforts to restrict “dark money” that erodes public confidence in our political system.
I hope he will lead the passage of ethics reform.
I hope he will protect our unique environment.
While I may not be giving a State of the State address today, I will never stop caring about the state of our state and nation. And I will not stop voicing my opinion about how we build pathways of opportunity for every Arizonan.
I look forward to working with you as we do this together, all Arizonans, building a society worthy of this extraordinary place.
I hope you will stay in touch. fred@fredduval.com.
With warmest wishes for your New Year,
Fred
