PHOENIX — An Arizona state senator criticized Democratic Governor-elect Katie Hobbs for “deliberately” antagonizing lawmakers ahead of the 2023 legislative session.
J.D. Mesnard, who represents legislative district 17, accused Hobbs of “punching us in the face” in order to “excite her base” by setting up a public “showdown” with Republicans. The senator’s comment came after Hobbs admitted that she is “taking a hard look” at defunding the Border Strike Force despite her campaign pledge to the contrary. “If that’s her opening move, it’s going to be a long four years,” Mesnard told the Arizona Republic on November 21.
Hobbs also announced one week earlier that “I will do everything in my power” to repeal Arizona’s restrictions on abortion by calling a special session of the legislature, even though Republicans maintain majorities in both chambers.
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