Arizona was the poster child for Tea Party politics. Now the state’s Republican leaders are focusing instead on core establishment issues. The shift there could signal what’s to come across the country.
By Alan Greenblatt | Governing
ver three terms in the Arizona Legislature, J.D. Mesnard has seen lots of controversial legislation pass into law with scarcely any notice. He has also watched as bills that appeared mild or harmless have blown up, bringing the state embarrassing media attention.
It’s the latter scenario that Mesnard is seeking to avoid in his new role as speaker of the House. Arizona has repeatedly drawn negative press during debates over matters such as illegal immigration and gay rights. Like other Arizona Republicans, Mesnard said he believes the national media routinely distort the intent and practical effects of social conservative bills. Nevertheless, he said he recognizes that having bills portrayed as harsh or intolerant has done no favors for the state. At the moment, he believes, social conflict is too hot to handle. “There has been a conscious effort to keep us out of these divisive, controversial issues,” Mesnard says. “We want to have tax cuts and deregulation and make that the narrative about Arizona.”
To put it simply, one very red state is cutting back on the red meat.
