The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast
The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com
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Helping you keep up with what matters in Arizona's political news. Each week we interview politicians, public figures or journalists to break down one local issue and how it affects your life in Arizona. Coming to you every Wednesday morning, The Gaggle is hosted by The Arizona Republic's national political reporters Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ron Hansen. You can find them on Twitter at @yvonnewingett and @ronaldjhansen.
Available episodes
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5 days ago
How Republicans are leveraging the debate over school reopenings to expand school vouchers
Two years ago, Arizona voters rejected a GOP law to expand the state’s school voucher-style program. Despite that rejection, and against the backdrop of at-home learning in the era of the pandemic, Arizona’s Republicans are once again trying to dramatically expand the program.
This year, the Arizona Senate voted not just to expand the voucher system. In fact, SB 1452 is even larger than the expansion that was repealed by voters. Under the proposed legislation, two thirds of Arizona’s 1.1 million public-school students would qualify for the program, which lets parents spend public money on private and religious schooling.
The bill comes as many parents are frustrated following months of at-home education or hybrid learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Republicans are leveraging that frustration to advocate for private schools, many of which have re-opened for in-person learning to some degree.
In this week’s episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen talk to education reporter Lily Altavena and data reporter Rob O’Dell about the politics of school re-opening and school vouchers. The team discusses where in-person education stands in Arizona, what Republicans are proposing and how that would shape education for students and parents alike.
Feb 17, 2021
After his final two years as governor, what will come next for Doug Ducey?
Arizona has been in the national political spotlight recently. It was labeled a swing state heading into the 2020 elections and barely turned blue, handing Joe Biden his narrowest victory in November.
While this was happening, the state's elected leaders were gathering national attention too. Republican Governor Doug Ducey has entered the final two years of his term. His future afterward is uncertain, but could include a return to private life, a run for Congress or even a White House bid in 2024.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen talk with Phil Cox, former executive director of the Republican Governor's Association where Ducey currently serves as Chairman. They'll break down where Arizona's leader could be headed next and the implications for Arizona voters.
Feb 10, 2021
How Arizona's elected officials are reacting to Trump's second impeachment trial
Former President Donald Trump is the only president to face impeachment twice, after the House of Representatives signed a single article of impeachment on Jan. 25.
The Senate began its formal trial on Tuesday, although there isn't a clear consensus on whether Trump should be held accountable for the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol and what that accountability would look like. Arizona's House representatives already split along party lines when voting to impeach, prompting questions about partisan factions within our Congressional delegation.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen break down how impeachment could fracture the relationships among Arizona's elected officials in Washington and what that would mean for voters.
You'll also hear audio from Sens. Kyrsten Sinema and Mark Kelly about their reflections after the riots at the Capitol.
Feb 3, 2021
Arizona Republicans want to change how votes are cast. Here’s what this means for you
The 2020 election marked the first time in modern Arizona history that Democrats had a lead in early ballots a week before election day. Republicans closed that gap, putting the percentage of ballots returned within 1% of each other.
Still, it was a shock to the system for some Republicans.
Now, Republican lawmakers are looking to change how Arizonans vote, as well as how their votes are counted and audited. Everything is on the table, from mail-in voting to the permanent early voting list.
In this week’s episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen break down the Republican proposals with state Legislature reporter Andrew Oxford. The conversation includes information on each proposal, how Democrats are responding to it and how it will change things for voters, if at all.
Jan 27, 2021
Progressive Raquel Terán is the new chair of Arizona’s Democratic Party. What does that mean for voters?
The Arizona Democratic and Republican parties held elections on Jan. 23 to elect their party chair.
During an in-person meeting that was largely closed to the media, the Arizona GOP narrowly re-elected the fractious Kelli Ward as its leader. Democrats opted to vote for a new chair in a virtual meeting, electing Raquel Terán overwhelmingly with 75% of the vote.
Terán is the state representative for Legislative District 30 in the metro Phoenix area. And she's a self-identified progressive with roots in community organizing.
As Democratic chair, Terán will oversee the state's party platform and work to gain Democratic wins up and down the ballot ahead of 2022, as well as fundraise for the party and recruit candidates.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen are joined by the newly-elected Terán. She will break down the future of the party in Arizona, including questions about how progressive party's agenda will be in coming years.
Jan 20, 2021
How the Biden administration could impact Arizonans
Today is the inauguration day for President-elect Joe Biden. He becomes the 46th President of the United States of America. After the two Democratic Senate victories in Georgia, Biden has a clearer path towards setting are more liberal agenda.
Biden has already released plans for his first 100 days in office, including plans for a national COVID-19 response and changes to various immigration policies.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen are joined by health reporter Stephanie Innes and immigration reporter Daniel Gonzalez to break down how the administration's early policy moves could affect Arizonans.
Jan 13, 2021
How can the Arizona GOP save itself from extremist?
Arizona Republican leaders such as Gov. Doug Ducey and Chair Kelli Ward had opposing reactions to the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.
Ducey initially condemned the riots on Twitter and then again addressed it in Monday's State of the State address. "In the United States of America, violence and vandalism have no place in the people’s house. Perpetrators should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Let us condemn it and resolve that it never happens again," said Ducey.
On the day of the attack, Ward attended a Protect the Vote rally, where she continued to question the validity of the election results.
The riots at the U.S. Capitol highlight a growing fissure within the party. It’s at a crossroads, caught between moderate and extremists. With Ward likely to maintain power, the tone for the party is being set by the far-right. Is it possible for moderates to regain control?
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen speak with Kirk Adams. Adams is a former Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives. He also served as the chief of staff for Ducey from 2014 to 2018.
Listen now to hear as Adams breaks down how the Arizona GOP save itself from the extremist elements.
Jan 8, 2021
Bonus episode: Firsthand accounts of rampage at U.S. Capitol
On Wednesday, during a joint session of Congress, a pro-President Donald Trump mob invaded the Capitol.
The riot spilled into the Capitol as the debate over Arizona’s votes began. Republican Rep. Paul Gosar was on the microphone when debate was halted.
As events developed, national political reporters Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen reached out to members of Arizona’s congressional delegation. They wanted to know where our elected officials were when the insurrection began, what they remember and how they felt.
In today’s bonus episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, we’re bringing five of those conversations. You’ll hear from Democratic Reps. Tom O’Halleran, Ruben Gallego, Greg Stanton and Raúl Grijalva and Republican Rep. Debbie Lesko.
Jan 6, 2021
What can we expect from the state Legislature in 2021?
Following a year of turmoil, the next legislative sessions kicks off on Monday, Jan. 11.
Republican Gov. Doug Ducey has faced criticism of his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic from Republicans and Democrats alike. Although Republicans held onto their majorities in the Arizona House of Representatives and Senate, there’s disunity among both parties’ caucuses.
What issues will the legislature attempt to address? And how successful will leaders from both sides be in drawing support for their causes?
State government and politics reporters Andrew Oxford and Maria Polletta join this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast to preview the upcoming session with hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen.
Dec 30, 2020
Five stories we're watching in 2021
As we wrap up 2020, The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen look towards 2021. In this week's episode, they'll breakdown five stories they are keeping their eyes on throughout the upcoming year.
That includes how the COVID-19 vaccine will impact the state's recovery from the pandemic. They'll also reflect on the futures of the Republican and Democratic parties in the state heading in the the next election cycle in 2022.
Dec 23, 2020
Happy holidays from The Gaggle
Hey Gaggle listeners! We're taking this week off. Thanks for joining us this year as we explored Arizona's evolving politics. We've got one more episode coming this year and we'll be back in 2021 with more.
Dec 16, 2020
How COVID-19 exacerbated evictions in Metro Phoenix
The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has made it difficult for many to pay rent. Various government protections were put in place throughout the year to protect renters against evictions, including rental assistance and eviction moratoriums.
However, reporting from The Arizona Republic found that hundreds of Arizona renters may have been wrongfully evicted. And more evictions may be on the way.
Reporters Catherine Reagor and Jessica Boehm join host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez on this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast. They break down how renters and landlords were protected under the CARES Act and what could happen when the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's eviction moratorium expires on Jan. 1.
Listen now to hear how the coronavirus pandemic strained the relationship between landlords and renters.
Dec 9, 2020
Rediscovering: SB 1070 | Epilogue: How did SB 1070 shape the 2020 election? Two politicos weigh in
Season two of Rediscovering, a podcast from The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, explored the events leading up to and following the passage of Senate Bill 1070 in Arizona.
The 2010 “show me your papers” law was met with pushback from Latino organizers, grassroots activists, DACA recipients and more.
That pushback didn’t end after SB 1070 was signed. Latino activists continued to organize. They pushed for voter registration. They rallied around local candidates. They helped elect Democrats like Sheriff Paul Penzone and Krysten Sinema.
Now, the 2020 election has come and gone. For the first time since 1996, Arizona voted for a Democrat for president. Joe Biden’s narrow victory was the work of multiple voting blocs and a confluence of events that made for an unforgettable year and an election cycle that will be looked back on for decades to come.
In the immediate aftermath, we wanted to revisit some of the voices you heard in Rediscovering. In this epilogue, we’re bring…
Dec 2, 2020
A behind-the-scenes look at how Joe Biden won Arizona with his campaign senior adviser
President-elect Joe Biden officially received Arizona's 11 electoral votes on Monday after the state certified the election results. Almost a month after the election, many are wondering how a traditionally conservative state flipped for Biden this election.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen sit down with Andrew Piatt, a Biden campaign senior adviser. Piatt previously worked as a campaign manager on Sen. Kyrsten Sinema's team in 2018.
Listen now to hear what factors gave Biden the extra push with undecided voters to flip the state blue for the first time in 26 years.
Nov 25, 2020
2020 Election coverage: Our media critic's assessment
"The media" is blanket term that covers everything from social media to 24-hour TV networks to traditional newspapers like our own.
Despite the catch-all nature of the plural phrase, consumers can treat news outlets as though they're singular, particularly if they disagree with the news as it's reported.
In today's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, media critic Bill Goodykoontz joins hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen to discuss the changing relationship between news producers and consumers, especially during presidential elections. Unlike traditional news reporters, Goodykoontz is a columnist, meaning he's free to express opinions on election coverage that others might withhold.
The trio discusses how the coverage of the election has evolved since 2016 and whether there's still room for improvement. They also discuss the rise in alternative media and what role disreputable outlets such as that could play in future elections.
Nov 18, 2020
Five Predictions We Made About the 2020 Election that Came True
When it comes to politics, Arizona is truly a purple state.
For the first time in 24 years, Arizona's electoral votes went to a Democratic Presidential candidate. Arizona also elected Democrat Mark Kelly to the U.S. Senate. The state will now have a pair of Democratic senators in the upper chamber for the first time since 1953.
At the same time, Arizona voters kept the state legislature in Republican control.
If you've been a loyal listener to the The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, these election results wouldn't have come as a huge surprise, as hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen spent the last year reporting on Arizona's changing political landscape.
Take a listen to this week's episode for look back at how original reporting from The Gaggle podcast and The Arizona Republic foreshadowed the 2020 election results.
Nov 11, 2020
Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs responds to claims of voter interference
As a swing state, all eyes were going to be on Arizona this election.
That was certainly the case when a conspiracy theory over Sharpies took hold on social media. The theory claimed that ballots marked with Sharpies would not be counted. Not only is this false, but the Maricopa County Elections Department said it prefers Sharpies because they are quick to dry and don't smudge.
Attention has also been given to Arizona by President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly called for all votes to be counted in the state while also calling for Pennsylvania to stop counting votes. Pro-Trump supporters continue to rally for all votes to be counted outside of the Maricopa County Elections Department, where votes are being counted.
Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs oversees the elections. Hobbs has been making the rounds on national media lately, responding to such critiques of Arizona's system.
Hobbs joins hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen on The Gaggle: An Arizona polit…
Nov 5, 2020
BONUS: As ballots are counted, here's an update on what we know
Votes are still being counted in Arizona; 470,000 to be exact. While there are some races in the state that have yet to be called, our knowledge about the results continues to grow.
The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast is dropping a bonus episode to chat about the evolving results and biggest headlines since Tuesday's election.
Hosts of the Gaggle podcast Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen will update you on the presidential race and the Congressional District races.
In this episode you'll also hear from:
Lily Altavena on Proposition 208.
Rachel Leingang about the Sharpie controversy.
Andrew Oxford on the State Legislature races.
Nov 4, 2020
Election 2020: What we know and don't know about the results
The 2020 election cycle torpedoed through a nation upended by the COVID-19 pandemic and grappling with partisan animosity, but in Arizona the season culminated in an election day marked by high voter turnout and sparing reports of disruption at the polls.
Voter turnout in Arizona surpassed 2016 numbers, but was not fully known by the end of Tuesday. Nearly 2.64 million early ballots were cast by Monday. Those votes, combined with in-person election votes, are expected to push turnout to record-breaking levels.
Full results in some races were left undetermined by the end of the night, including various Congressional Districts, state House and Senate races and Prop. 208, an education funding measure. But the Associated Press called the presidential race in Arizona for former Vice President Joe Biden. It also said that Democrat Mark Kelly ousted Republican Martha McSally from her Senate seat.
This week's episode of The Gaggle, an Arizona politics podcast from The Arizona and az…
Oct 28, 2020
Here's what you need to know the week before the Election
In one week, people will be awaiting results from the 2020 election races. In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen are breaking down the information you need to know before Tuesday's election.
They take a look at early voting turnout and what the latest polls are saying (plus, if the polls can be trusted). Also, hear an analysis about statements made by candidates in the final stretches of the election and whether or not they're true.
Oct 21, 2020
Maricopa County Attorney candidates Allister Adel, Julie Gunnigle talk criminal justice reform
The race for Maricopa County Attorney has grown heated and competitive this year.
Facing off are candidates Allister Adel, a Republican, and Julie Gunnigle, a Democrat.
Allister Adel, the sitting county attorney, was appointed to the office in October 2019 by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. This came after her predecessor, Republican Bill Montgomery, was named to the Arizona Supreme Court by Republican Governor Doug Ducey. She’s received the support of police unions and several Republican politicians.
Her opponent, Julie Gunnigle, grew up in Arizona before becoming a prosecutor in Illinois and Indiana. She’s been vocal in her support for criminal justice reform and has the support of various left-leaning organizations and even received a shoutout from celebrity singer John Legend.
To give you a better picture of these candidates and their philosophies, The Gaggle podcast spoke with each of them about criminal justice reform, reproductive rights and marijuana le…
Oct 14, 2020
How are voters leaning in one of Arizona's most competitive districts?
Arizona's 1st Congressional District was designed to be competitive.
The district is immense. It stretches from the Navajo Nation in the northwest corner of the state, to the Grand Canyon and Flagstaff. From there, it heads south, covering Show Low and Globe. Then it switches west to include Casa Grande and the city of Maricopa, just south of Phoenix.
It's covers such an incredible land mass that it's actually larger than 26 states.
In 2016, the district went to President Donald Trump by one point. That same night, it voted in Democrat Tom O'Halleran to Congress.
Four years later, how do voters in the district feel? Which issues are most pressing to them? And how will they vote come November? We talked to Rep. O'Halleran and voters in the district to find out.
Oct 14, 2020
After his ethics investigation, can Schweikert win in Arizona's 6th Congressional District?
Can a lengthy ethics investigation and a charismatic opponent mean the end for Rep. David Schweikert, a Republican from Arizona's 6th Congressional District?
Schweikert's district is home to some of Arizona's wealthiest residents. It's also home to a host of working-class entrepreneurs, he said. Topping their list of important issues this election are the economy, COVID-19 response, health care, and education. Facing off against Schweikert is Dr. Hiral Tipirneni, a Democrat who's made ground appealing to voters across the aisle.
This week, listeners will visit two congressional districts. Congressional District 6 and Congressional District 1. These races are expected to be the most competitive of all nine in Arizona.
We hear how Republican, Independent and Democrat voters in the districts feel about the incumbent candidates and their challengers.
It's part of a miniseries The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast launched this year. Leading up to the election, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sa…
Oct 7, 2020
McSally vs. Kelly: Key moments from last night's debate
The race between retired astronaut and Democrat Mark Kelly and Sen. Martha McSally (R-Ariz.) could determine the control of the Senate and makeup of the Supreme Court.
On Tuesday night, voters heard from the candidates directly. In a debate hosted by The Arizona Republic, Arizona PBS, KJZZ-FM (91.5) and Arizona Public media, the candidates responded to questions about health care, guns, China and national security.
The debate came after the release of a statewide Suffolk University/USA TODAY Network poll released Friday that showed Kelly led McSally 49-40 among likely Arizona voters.
Will the debate impact voters choice? How did Kelly and McSally respond to topics about the COVID-19 pandemic? In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen break down the top moments from the U.S. Senate debate.
Oct 1, 2020
How the Patriot Movement AZ is influencing local politics
The Patriot Movement AZ was once seen as a fringe group within the Republican Party. Now they are impacting local policy while garnering national attention for their public actions. Investigative reporters Rob O'Dell and Richard Ruelas spent six months diving into the history of the group and reviewing thousands of online posts to learn how the group thinks.
O'Dell and Ruelas chat with Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen hosts of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, to breakdown the findings of their investigation.
Sep 30, 2020
How climate change and the Supreme Court are shaping 2020 for the 9th Congressional District
Once a reliably red state, Arizona has become increasingly purple over the last decade.
When it comes to the 2020 election, it's districts like Arizona's 9th Congressional District that could swing outcomes on the federal level.
The 9th Congressional District falls in the heart of the Valley. It includes east Phoenix, Tempe, south Scottsdale and parts of Mesa and Chandler. It's home to some of Arizona's largest employers, such as State Farm Insurance and Arizona State University.
The district was originally drawn as one of three competitive House seats in Arizona. Back when it was created, Republicans had a 3 percentage point advantage. Today, Democrats have an 8-point edge.
What does that shift mean for President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden? How could changing sentiments in one congressional district shape the outcome of November's election?
To find out, we talked to Representative Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.), who has served the district since 2018. We also tal…
Sep 23, 2020
How Trump and Biden are vying for Arizona's suburban voters
As the 2020 election draws near, Republican President Donald Trump and Democratic former Vice President Joe Biden are racing to shore up support from suburban voters in the battleground state of Arizona.
Analysts say suburbanites will be the decisive voting faction in this year's election, making them the most important group for each of the presidential candidates to win over.
But the suburbs aren't a monolith. The residents make up diverse populations with different concerns, backgrounds and religious affiliations. So how are the Trump and Biden campaigns going after them?
This week's episode of The Gaggle, an Arizona politics podcast, breaks down the two campaigns' strategies and efficacy. Plus, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen examin how the candidates are polling among Arizonans.
Audio in this episode courtesy of the azcentral.com video team.
Sep 16, 2020
Worried about voting this year? Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs has tips
The course of the 2020 political season leading up to election day has been inexorably altered as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to render large, in-person gatherings a social taboo.
Campaign events have largely been cancelled. The Democratic and Republican National Conventions were held virtually. As questions over the safety of in-person voting loom large, Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs is preparing her office, which oversees elections, for more mail-in voting this year than ever before.
But President Donald Trump has made clear his discomfort with mail-in voting. In April, he claimed that it leads to widespread voter fraud.
"I''m not gonna say which party does it, but thousands of votes are gathered and they come and they’re dumped in locations and all the sudden you lose elections that you think you’re gonna win," Trump said at a White House press briefing. "I won’t stand for it."
exists, but that hasn’t appeased some of his supporters who are growing c…
Sep 9, 2020
Preserving capitalism, guns and water: These are the issues that matter most to Congressional District 4
Socialism. Guns. Water. Those are some of the top issues for voters from Arizona's 4th Congressional District. Also top of mind are keeping taxes low and ensuring the election this November is safe and accessible for all the district's voters, including Indigenous constituents.
It's for those reasons that Congressional District 4 is not considered a competitive area for Republicans in the 2020 election. Represented by Republican Rep. Paul Gosar, the district covers most of Western Arizona. It also includes north central Arizona, including most of Yavapai County, and wraps itself around Phoenix from the east.
In this week's episode, listeners visit Congressional District 4.
It's part of a miniseries The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast launched this year. Leading up to the election, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen introduce you to the district leaders and residents, explaining how the most pressing issues for voters could affect the 2020 election.
Sep 2, 2020
From recreational marijuana to Invest in Ed: What's on Arizona's 2020 ballot
This November, Arizonans will cast their votes not just for the leaders they hope to see guiding their futures, but for the multiple voter-driven propositions that will shape their communities.
What are the props on the ballot this election cycle and what do voters need to know about them? This week Arizona's politics podcast, The Gaggle, dives into four measures, two of which made it on the ballot and two that did not.
Smart and Safe Arizona Act, a recreational marijuana measure (on the ballot)
Prop. 208, an education funding measure (on the ballot)
Second Chances, Rehabilitation and Public Safety Act (not on the ballot)
Stop Surprise Billing and Protect Patients Act (not on the ballot)
Joining hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen are joined by education reporter Lily Altavena, business reporter Ryan Randazzo and state legislature Andrew Oxford.
Aug 26, 2020
Will the Republican and Democratic conventions sway Arizona voters?
Every four years supporters of the Democratic and Republican parties pack convention centers and arenas to nominate their candidate for president. This year, that tradition is a bit different. Instead of large crowds and in-person festivities, Zoom meetings and video live streams took its place.
The COVID-19 pandemic ousted the traditional convention, but the parties messaging is the same: both say it's the most important election ever.
In 2020, Arizona is a battleground state. The Grand Canyon state has been a historically red state. Arizona has only gone to the Democrats once since 1952. That was in 1996 when republican presidential nominee Bob Dole lost the state to President Bill Clinton.
Last week, we saw Democratic leaders speak at the virtual convention. This week, the Republican party takes center stage.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen break down the messaging of both political conventions a…
Aug 19, 2020
Mark Kelly responds to questions about China, healthcare and gun reform
Mark Kelly, a retired NASA astronaut, is vying to become Arizona's second Democratic senator. Kelly ran uncontested in the Democratic Senate primary and will face off with Republican Sen. Martha McSally in November.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, Kelly joins hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen to discuss how he would use his position in the senate. He also weighs in on healthcare and gun reform.
Aug 12, 2020
How southern Arizona's Congressional District 2 will sway the 2020 election
Arizona's Congressional District 2 has a history of voting for both Republicans and Democrats, but as COVID-19 upends life for residents across the state, the question of which direction the district will lean in the 2020 election is in flux.
The district is located in the southeast corner of Arizona, abutting Mexico and New Mexico. It includes parts of Tucson, Willcox, Benson, Sierra Vista and Bisbee. It’s represented by Democrat Ann Kirkpatrick.
In this week's episode, listeners visit Congressional District 2.
It's part of a miniseries The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast launched this year. Leading up to the election, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen introduce you to the district leaders and residents, explaining how the most pressing issues for voters could affect the 2020 election.
This year, the district will play a large role in races like Arizona's U.S. Senate seat between Republican Martha McSally and Democrat Mark Kelly, the U.S. House seat bet…
Aug 5, 2020
Can the primary election results tell us anything about November?
Arizona's primary election may have lacked the gravitas of November's much-anticipated general election, but there were key races to watch.
This includes races in the state Legislature, which could determine whether Democrats retake the state House of Representatives for the first time since the 1966 elections.
Democrats also had to choose their opponent to run in the congressional race against the embattled, five-term Rep. David Schweikert, R-Ariz. Other big name tickets included Joe Arpaio's attempt to regain his former job as sheriff.
Where did voters land? And what, if anything, could this tell us about November's election? State Legislature reporter Andrew Oxford joined hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen to break down the election results in today's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast.
Jul 29, 2020
What does the debate over the next stimulus package mean for Arizonans?
When it comes to negotiating the next coronavirus stimulus package, House Democrats and Senate Republicans are at odds. Again.
In May, Democrats, who control the House, proposed a $3 trillion plan that extended the $600 emergency unemployment benefit until January. Their plan also included an additional $1,200 stimulus check and additional funding for COVID-19 testing and contact tracing.
Republicans rejected the plan, but did not unveil their own until earlier this week. Their $1 trillion proposal also includes an additional $1,200 stimulus check for millions of Americans. It also offers legal protections for small businesses and schools against liability claims, with the hopes that such protections will encourage them to reopen.
However, the proposal also caps federal unemployment assistance to 70% of a workers' pay rather than extending the $600 unemployment bonus. That program would be phased in over the next two months. While it's being rolled out, unemployed Americans wo…
Jul 23, 2020
BONUS: Kathy Hoffman breaks down new executive order on K-12 education and reopening efforts
In March, in-person schools shut down in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The sudden transition was difficult for teachers, students and parents alike.
In recent weeks, the debate on when and how to reopen schools for in-person curriculum has made headlines across the country. The pressure to reopen this fall was amplified by President Donald Trump earlier this month.
Arizona schools Superintendent Kathy Hoffman is leading in the effort to reopen schools along side Gov. Doug Ducey. In an exclusive, one-on-one interview with hosts of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, Hoffman breaks down the new steps the state is making towards getting students back into classrooms.
Hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen discuss with her how they plan to keep teachers safe and the changes students will see in classrooms.
Jul 22, 2020
How COVID-19 is ravaging immigration detention centers in Arizona
What's it like to be a migrant or correctional officer in an immigrant detention facility located in a global hotspot during a pandemic?
At the Eloy Detention Center in southern Arizona, correctional officers and immigrants' rights advocates and lawyers are decrying dangerous conditions they say have exacerbated the outbreak of COVID-19 at the facility.
The Arizona Republic reported July 9 that 128 staff members at the center tested positive for COVID-19. The 128 members make up nearly 41% of the workforce at Eloy. In June, a correctional officer at the facility died from potential COVID-19 complications.
The center is run by CoreCivic, a for-profit private prison company based in Nashville. It is under contract from Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, host Ronald J. Hansen speaks with immigration reporter Daniel Gonzalez. Hansen and Gonzalez break down the lengthy list of allegations against…
Jul 15, 2020
Listen to episode one of our new series, 'Rediscovering: SB 1070'
Episode 1: You're not welcome here
In the early 2000s, Arizona’s rapid population growth and investor speculation fueled a homebuilding binge in the state.
Contractors took advantage of a lax employment-verification system and hired undocumented workers at a cut rate, often from Mexico, in droves.
At its peak, Arizona proportionately had the second-largest undocumented population of any state in the country, behind only Nevada. About one in 12 residents was undocumented.
Consumers and businesses liked the low-cost labor. But not everyone liked the changing demographics of their neighborhoods.
State legislators tried to address the issue, but critics called the attempts piecemeal. Congress failed multiple times at passing immigration reform.
An economic recession, a dramatic citizen’s arrest and a tragic death exacerbated tensions.
To hear all five episodes, subscribe to Rediscovering: SB 1070 in your podcast app.
Jul 8, 2020
Listen to the trailer for our new series, 'Rediscovering: SB 1070'
Arizona is a battleground state in national elections and could sway the outcome of the 2020 presidential race.
But how did we get here? How did the state go from reliably red to purple, with the possibility to shift blue in 2020, in just a decade? To understand, go back to 2010 when Arizona surprised the nation by passing Senate Bill 1070, a sweeping and highly controversial immigration law, otherwise known as the "show me your papers" law.
That's what The Gaggle's sister podcast will explore in season two of Rediscovering. The five-part series will examine what led to the bill, what its proponents sought to do, how the community and nation reacted and how its effects linger still today.
Gaggle hosts Yvonne Wingett-Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen host this season of Rediscovering. They spoke with more than two dozen people including the architect of the bill, Russell Pearce. As well as former Governor Jan Brewer, Arizona's senior senator Kyrsten Sinema and young Latino and immigra…
Jul 1, 2020
An exclusive interview with Sen. Martha McSally on COVID-19, the campaign and her new book
Sen. Martha McSally, R-Ariz., is expected to face off against retired NASA astronaut Mark Kelly, a Democrat, in November.
In the midst of a fraught race, one which will determine who controls the Senate, McSally published a memoir, "Dare to Fly: Simple Lessons in Never Giving Up." The book is an up-close look at the Senator. It sheds light on her childhood, her early years in the Air Force, her military career and her political career.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, McSally joins hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen to discuss her book. She also weighs in on reports of Russia placing bounties on U.S. troops, the COVID-19 pandemic, health care, gun control and her return to the campaign trail.
Jun 24, 2020
Could COVID-19 reshape the politics of Lesko's Congressional District 8?
Earlier this year, "The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast," launched a miniseries profiling each congressional district in Arizona.
In this week's episode, we're taking a look at the West Valley's Congressional District 8. It's home to popular spots in the state like State Farm Stadium, where the Arizona Cardinals play, as well as the popular concert venue Gila River Arena.
It includes Glendale, Peoria, and Surprise. It also has large retirement communities in towns like Sun City and Sun City West. Republican Debbie Lekso represents the district in Congress. She took the seat in a special election in 2018.
Lekso joined hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen to talk about the political issues most important to her community, including social security and veteran benifit.
You'll also hear from voters directly on which issues are most likely to drive them to the polls.
Jun 17, 2020
Phoenix funded police oversight. What will that mean? Will it ever 'defund the police'?
The killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer who knelt on his neck for nearly 9 minutes has brought police practices and accountability to the forefront of American discourse. In cities across the nation, protesters have taken to the streets, demanding justice and change. Phoenix is no different.
This week The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, is examining two solutions proposed to address police brutality, profiling and other practices being scrutinized as unjust. These include civilian oversight and "defunding the police."
Related: Every 5 days, an Arizona officer shoots someone, a Republic analysis finds
In June, the Phoenix City Council approved spending $3 million of its $1.3 billion budget for a new Office of Accountability and Transparency that will focus on police oversight. Hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen explore the function of the new office with reporters Jessica Boehm and Uriel Garcia.
Plus, an explanation on what "defunding the…
Jun 16, 2020
Re-air: What you need to know about police shootings across Arizona
This week, The Gaggle will discuss the status of police oversight in Phoenix. Reporters Jessica Boehm and Uriel Garcia will talk about the call to “defund the police.” They’ll explain what it all means and the likelihood of these proposals coming to fruition. But before that, you should understand the backstory about police shootings in Phoenix. Last July, the Arizona Republic released an in-depth investigation on this very subject. The findings provide perspective for the current unrest across the nation. So today, The Gaggle is re-airing this old episode.
Jun 10, 2020
How will the pandemic and protests shape Gov. Doug Ducey's legacy?
The unprecedented nature of the COVID-19 pandemic has been a pivotal point in Republican Gov. Doug Ducey’s leadership in Arizona. Amid conflicting signals from the White House, governors across the country have played an outsized role in managing the health and economic crises.
In addition to the pandemic, many governors are being questioned about their responses to police brutality in wake of the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Ducey is no exception. Some questioned whether his implementation of a statewide curfew was in response to looting at Scottsdale Fashion Square, an upscale shopping center. Ducey also received criticism for issuing the curfew without speaking to Democratic mayors, including Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.
It’s been a historic run of problems for the state and the nation. It’s unclear how much these recent moments will define Ducey’s legacy governor.
How does Ducey’s leadership fare in contrast? And how will his handling of the pandemic shape hi…
Jun 3, 2020
Flagstaff, Tucson mayors say Gov. Doug Ducey has made no direct contact during most of the coronavirus pandemic
Arizona mayors who broke with Republican Gov. Doug Ducey's approach to the coronavirus said the governor has made no direct contact since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Flagstaff and Tucson mayors Coral Evans and Regina Romero told The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast they had communication with the Ducey administration early on in the pandemic through morning conference calls with Ben Blink, the governor's policy adviser for local governments. However, the calls have since ceased.
Evans and Romero were the first in the state to issue proclamations in mid-March, closing certain businesses and public gathering spaces. Gov. Ducey issued a statewide stay-at-home March 30.
In the May 27 interviews, Evans and Romero said their proactive approaches were in response to information from scientists and public health officials. They also spoke about the plight of their residents and what further action will be needed to revive their cities' economies and public health.
May…
Jun 2, 2020
Bonus episode: Why haven't Gov. Ducey and Mayor Gallego spoken in three months amid crises?
On May 25, George Floyd was killed while in the custody of four Minneapolis police officers. The officers' actions leading to his death violated the policies of the Minneapolis Police Department.
Floyd’s death became a catalyst for protests across the country, including protests in Phoenix. Local protesters decried Floyd's death, as well as the death of 28-year-old Dion Johnson. Authorities allege Johnson struggled with an Arizona Department of Public Safety trooper before the shooting. However, there is no footage of Johnson's death, and the trooper who shot him was not equipped with a camera.
After three nights of unrest, Republican Gov. Doug Ducey declared a state of emergency. He also declared a weekly curfew, which will expire on the morning of Monday, June 8. More than 200 protesters were arrested Sunday night for violating the curfew.
In issuing the curfew, Ducey said his administration had received requests from local leaders. However, the mayors of Phoenix and Tucson…
May 27, 2020
Meeting Arizona Voters: A breakdown of Congressional District 5
Earlier this year, "The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast," launched a miniseries profiling each congressional district in Arizona.
In this week's episode, we're taking a look at the east Valley's Congressional District 5. The district includes Gilbert and Queen Creek, as well as eastern Mesa and parts of Chandler.
Representing the dyed-in-the-wool conservative district is Republican Andy Biggs. Biggs has made headlines recently for voting against COVID-19 stimulus package, citing his concern about the impact of the packages on the national debt.
Biggs joined hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen to talk about the political issues most important to his community, many of which have changed during the pandemic. You'll also hear from voters in his district directly.
May 20, 2020
How COVID-19 is upending life on the Navajo Nation
The Navajo Nation, located in parts of Arizona, Utah and New Mexico, is one of the hardest hit places in the state from COVID-19 cases and is now leading the country in per-capita infection rates.
Most recent numbers show 2,344 persons per 100,000 on the Navajo Nation were infected by the new coronavirus. In second was New York with 1,806 cases per 100,000. Since early March the Navajo Nation has enacting some of the strictest policies in the state, including nightly and weekend-long curfews.
The response started when Navajo Nation President Jonathon Nez declared a state of emergency and days later closed the nation to visitors after three confirmed cases were reported.
More than half of the Navajo Nation's cases involve residents in Arizona counties.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen are joined by breaking news reporter Chelsea Curtis to break down the Navajo Nation's response to the c…
May 13, 2020
Gov. Doug Ducey and the politics of reopening Arizona
Since his first press briefing March 2 to extending the statewide stay-at-home order April 29, Republican Gov. Doug Ducey has filled a momentous, and at times controversial, timeline of actions regarding the new coronavirus.
His incremental progressions have evoked bold responses from constituents, business owners and political leaders on both sides of the aisle; and his administration's decisions to cut off data from university researchers modeling state-specific COVID-19 case projections has led to national scrutiny and a swift reversal.
Dissent from all angles has rendered impossible a scenario in which the governor can take action without accounting for political consequence.
This week on The Gaggle, an Arizona politics podcast, national political reporters Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen parse the messy web of politics that has affected Gov. Ducey's decision making. Joining the hosts are Arizona Repubilc reporters Maria Polletta and Ryan Randazzo.
In this epis…
May 6, 2020
The bills killed when the Legislature adjourned
When the Arizona Legislature adjourned March 23 as a precautionary health measure to combat the new coronavirus, the session's abrupt end killed dozens of bills that had progressed in the state chambers, leaving them with no path to the governor's office.
Lawmakers' original plan to reconvene April 13 was scrapped after Gov. Doug Ducey implemented a stay-at-home order March 30 that is currently in effect until May 15. Now, bills pertaining to education, suicide prevention, criminal justice reform, short term rentals, taxation, and even road kill face uncertain futures.
This week on the Gaggle, an Arizona politics podcast, national political reporters Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen break down the prominent bills from this session with Arizona Republic reporters Andrew Oxford, Maria Polletta and Lily Altavena.
Oxford, Polletta and Altavena explain what the bills would've done and how likely they were to pass.
May 5, 2020
BONUS: Is Trump's visit to Arizona his first step back to the campaign stage?
President Donald Trump's Arizona visit on Tuesday is his first since the Feb. 19 rally at the Veteran's Memorial Coliseum. This time he's visiting a Honeywell facility, which turned to producing N95 respirator masks at the end of March.
The visit comes at an interesting time. The 2020 campaign season has halted its usual door-to-door tactics in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, pivoting to digital outreach instead. Trump's stop in Arizona marks a potential return to in-person campaigning.
In this bonus episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen interview Ronna McDaniel, Chair of the Republican National Committee. She outlined how the RNC plans to support Republican candidates in Arizona during this unprecedented time.
Apr 29, 2020
How COVID-19 affected Arizona schools and what that means moving forward
After an extended spring break, Republican Gov. Doug Ducey closed schools for the rest of the school year on March 30, citing the risk of COVID-19. Now families have set up virtual classrooms in their living rooms or at the dining room table. Many were left scrambling to keep their kids learning.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen are joined by education reporter Lily Altavena. Together, they break down how schools pivoted to distance learning, as well as the potential long-term impacts of this shift.
You'll also hear directly from Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman.
Apr 22, 2020
How COVID-19 impacted the 2020 Election cycle
The coronavirus pandemic is changing the 2020 Election season. In any other presidential election year, you'd see people knocking on doors, holding rallies, headlining high-dollar fundraisers and gathering signatures for ballot measures.
This spring, candidates have had to change their strategies for reaching potential voters. Some have found more success with it than others.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen break down how the campaign season has essentially halted during the pandemic.
They dig into the presidential race, senate race, ballot measures and more.
In this episode you'll hear:
Republican Sen. Martha McSally
Samantha Zager, the Regional Communications Director for Trump Victory
Roopali Desai, an election lawyer in Arizona
Apr 15, 2020
What’s it like for officials to respond to a health crisis?
What is it like for those in positions of power to respond to a health crisis?
Will Humble was the director of the Arizona Department of Health Services from 2009 to 2015. He served in that role for both Democratic and Republican governors. In doing so, he oversaw the state's response to H1N1 and Ebola.
Humble said the most important thing is for the public to hear a "symphony of voices" during a health crisis. This includes hearing from government officials, doctors and nurses.
But does he feel as though that's happening today? How does he rate Arizona's response to COVID-19? Find out in today's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, with hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen.
Apr 8, 2020
How badly could the new coronavirus hurt Arizona's economy?
The outbreak of COVID-10 has already hit Arizona's economy, leaving lawmakers, economists and residents to wonder how bad this could get and how much longer the downturn will last.
Two weeks ago, Arizona's unemployment insurance website crashed after it was overloaded by 30,000 people filing for unemployment for the first time. This was eight times the amount of people who had filed the previous week. In a two-week time span, more Arizonans applied for unemployment than during an entire year of the great recession.
While local industries such as construction, grocery stores and some trucking companies have seen minimal impact, industries foundational to Arizona like tourism and recreation, which typically flourish in the spring, are struggling.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle, an Arizona politics podcast, business and economy reporters Russ Wiles and Ryan Randazzo share some of the key factors economists are studying to better understand when Arizona might recover and how…
Apr 1, 2020
Meeting Arizona Voters: A breakdown of Congressional District 3
Last month, "The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast" launched a miniseries profiling each Congressional district in Arizona.
In this week's episode, we're taking a look at southwestern Arizona’s Congressional District 3. It’s home to border towns like Nogales and Yuma, as well as the University of Arizona in Tucson. The majority of it's population lives in the greater Tucson area.
Representing this district is Rep. Raúl Grijalva, D-Ariz. He’s been in Congress since 2002, making him the dean of the state’s congressional delegation. Grijalva joined hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen to talking about the political issues most important to his community, including immigration and the rising cost of living.
You'll also hear from voters directly on which ssues are most likely to drive them to the polls.
Mar 25, 2020
How Arizona's political leaders are responding to COVID-19
The way government officials respond to COVID-19, from Washington down to City Hall, will impact our state for years to come.
There is a wrenching debate between those who are most focused on the public health aspects of the pandemic and those who are trying to balance that with concerns of profound economic damage, as well as weighing civil liberties.
In Arizona, those competing concerns have been on public display for more than a week as Democratic Sen. Kyrsten Sinema has openly urged Republican Gov. Doug Ducey to more aggressively respond to the threat of coronavirus.
Similar battles have played out in the Phoenix City Council and the state Legislature.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcasts, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen are joined by state government and politics reporters Maria Polletta and Andrew Oxford. The reporters discuss how Ducey, the state legislature and our congressional delegation are reacting to the pandemic and w…
Mar 18, 2020
Primary election analysis: Biden won, but Sanders' progressive politics will persist
The results are in: former Vice President Joe Biden has overwhelmingly beaten Sen. Bernie Sanders in Arizona's primary.
The results are not a surprise, given Arizona voters’ preference for more moderate candidates over far-left ones. Considering its recent battleground status, moderate Democrats like Sen. Kyrsten Sinema tend to perform best in Arizona, as they're able to capture the votes Democrats, Independents and moderate Republicans turned off by President Donald Trump’s style and policies.
Despite the outcome, Sanders' progressive politics have found a strong foothold in Arizona, particularly among young voters and people of color. As Arizona’s population of young people and people of color continues to rapidly grow, the issues that helped fuel Sanders’ rise here and nationally will be paramount in future elections. For these voters, issues of equity and climate change, plus the rising cost of college and health care, remain top of mind.
In this episode of The Gaggle: An…
Mar 11, 2020
How the census will shape our schools, roads and healthcare for the next decade
Every decade, the U.S. government counts the number of people in the country. That census count helps determine the amount of money each state receives from the federal government.
It also determines how many people each state sends to the House of Representatives.
An inaccurate count means that Arizona could miss out on hundreds of millions of dollars over the decade for public entities like our schools, roads and health care resources. This can be particularly damaging to a state with rapidly growing population and needs.
Several government-sponsored campaigns have been created to encourage participation in the census. This includes Gov. Doug Ducey's Arizona Complete Count Committee.
In this episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen talk to Alec Thomson, the executive director of the Arizona Complete Count Committee, about the importance of the census and how you can participate in a safe way.
Mar 4, 2020
How Democrats plan to win Arizona in the 2020 election
With the 2020 elections around the corner, Democrats are hoping to keep the momentum from their 2018 wins going strong enough to defeat President Donald Trump in 2020 and win back the White House.
But the Democratic presidential candidates continue to fight amongst themselves over how far left they want to take the party. While Democrats have yet to unite behind a single nominee, the GOP is building momentum by invoking Trump's name for all Republican candidates on the 2020 ballot.
This week The Gaggle, an Arizona politics podcast, digs into the Democratic strategy for winning Arizona in 2020.
Last week on The Gaggle: How Republicans plan to win Arizona in 2020
If the Democrats are successful Arizona in 2020, it will establish a new template for how to win swing states in the future. If they lose, questions will linger over whether the right methods were deployed and the best nominee was selected.
Feb 26, 2020
BONUS: Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick talks about alcohol dependence in first interview
Congresswoman Ann Kirkpatrick recently began treatment for alcohol dependence. Her decision to do so came after the Representative, who presides over Congressional District 2 in southern Arizona, took a fall in a Washington-area subway. She was left with staples in her head, cracked ribs and a fractured spine.
In a statement, she said:
“I am finally seeking this help after struggling to do so in the past, and I am ready to admit that I, like countless other Americans, suffer from this disease. Hard work and determination — which have brought me success in life — have not been enough to win this battle. Other than being a wife, mother, and grandmother, the most important job in the world to me is representing my fellow Arizonans. I know I must get better in order to do my best in each of these roles.”
Rep. Kirkpatrick sat down with Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen to discuss how she's doing and what's in store for her political future.
Feb 26, 2020
A look at the Republican strategy to win big in Arizona this election cycle
The day before President Trump landed at Phoenix Sky Harbor, volunteers for the Republican party trained at the Trump Victory Leadership Initiative. The initiative is part of the Republican strategy to keep the White House and win down ballot elections.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen pull back the curtain on the Republic Party's plans as the 2020 presidential election heats up.
You'll hear Rick Gorka, the communications director of the Republican National Committee, explain the value of campaign volunteers and how they plan to get out the vote. You'll also hear from Trump voters at the Feb. 19 rally, talking about the top issues they care about.
This episode is part one in a series on how the two largest political parties are activating voters. Subscribe to our show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcast to catch next week's episode on the Democrat's plan for rallying n…
Feb 19, 2020
Meeting Arizona voters: a new mini-series starting in the 7th Congressional District
As our population continues to grow, our state's political landscape continues to change.
Once a reliably red state, Arizona has become increasingly purple. It's now a key battleground state in the 2020 election.
Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen, hosts of "The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast," we wanted to see how the purple trend is playing out in person.
To find out, they're traveling to each of Arizona's nine congressional districts, where they'll talk to your elected representatives and neighbors about the issues that matter most to them. These episodes will come out every few weeks until the election.
This mini-series starts in Arizona's seventh congressional district. Located in downtown Phoenix and stretching all the way to Tolleson and Glendale, it's a young, typically blue district. This election cycle, it will be a crucial district for Democrats, who are relying on high voter turnout in the area to offset the gains Republicans will make elsewhere.
The distric…
Feb 12, 2020
Where does "ballot harvesting" stand in Arizona? How will it impact the 2020 election?
The years-long legal battle over whether Arizona can ban people from delivering ballots from others in bulk remains in flux and as contentious as ever.
On Jan. 27, the San Francisco-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals knocked down the state's "ballot harvesting" law, saying it violated the Voting Rights Act and disproportionately affects Native American, Hispanic, and African American voters.
But days after lifting the ban, the court temporarily reinstated it, allowing Arizona officials a chance to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich reminded people on Twitter that the state's ban on collecting ballots from others remains in place, at least for now.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen break down the future of ballot harvesting in the state, and how it could impact the 2020 election cycle.
Joining them on the episode are reporters Mary Jo Pitzl and Andrew Oxford,…
Feb 5, 2020
What's the state doing to address homelessness?
Last week the Maricopa Association of Governments sent teams of volunteers across the Valley to count the number of homeless people residing in the state. Arizona Republic reporters followed these volunteers and spoke to the homeless individuals about what led to their homelessness and what the experience is like.
This week on The Gaggle, national political reporters Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen interview Jessica Boehm, city of Phoenix reporter, and Catherine Reagor, real-estate reporter. The four discuss the conditions that led to today's rising homelessness and how the state is responding.
Plus, stick around for the end of this episode. We have a bonus interview with former New York City Mayor and Democratic presidential candidate Michael Bloomberg. He makes his case for why Arizona should vote for him.
Jan 29, 2020
How Sens. Kyrsten Sinema, Martha McSally are tap dancing through impeachment
As Senators sit for hours on end listening to the impeachment trial of President Donald Trump, Arizona Republic reporters are reading cues from Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, a Democrat, and Sen. Martha McSally, a Republican, for insight into how they may ultimately vote.
The senators and their colleagues are weighing two articles of impeachment against Trump. He is charged with abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, stemming from leveraging the presidency to convince Ukrainian officials to investigate his political rivals.
This week on The Gaggle, an Arizona politics podcast, national political reporters Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen dive into the senator's trial votes — and discuss the political implications that could help shape their votes.
Jan 22, 2020
How could the Invest in Education initiative impact your taxes and schools?
The Invest in Education Initiative Act is making a comeback and could be on your 2020 ballot this fall.
The proposal looks similar to the 2018 initiative. It would increase taxes for high-income earners, including single filers earning more than $250,000 or married filers earning more than $500,000.
But the previous iteration was struck down by the Arizona Supreme Court in 2018 due to its lack of clarity. And the proposal is at odds with Gov. Doug Ducey's plan for education funding.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen break down the proposed initiative, including its history. Joining them on the episode is education reporter Lily Altavena, who weighs in on whether Arizona voters are likely to stomach a new tax.
In this episode you'll hear:
How this new ballot measure differs from the one in 2018
What Ducey's plans are for education funding
How we could see teacher salaries grow
Jan 17, 2020
Listen to our exclusive interview with Gov. Doug Ducey
Days after delivering his State of the State speech this week, Gov. Doug Ducey elaborated on his priorities, and fielded questions on some of Arizona's other top issues in an exclusive interview with The Gaggle podcast.
Hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen asked Ducey about his plans for gun safety reform, water policy, marijuana legalization and why he's involved himself on reshaping the mission of the Department of Corrections.
The interview follow Ducey's sixth and longest State of the State address on Monday. The speech, named "The Arizona Way," touched on topics like economic growth and education funding.
Jan 15, 2020
Arizona agencies are failing vulnerable adults. What's being done about this?
Arizona adults unable to protect themselves from abuse or exploitation because of a physical or mental impairment are falling through the cracks of the state system designed to protect them.
This week on The Gaggle, an Arizona politics podcast, Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen get an advance interview with healthcare reporter Stephanie Innes about her reporting on the flawed system serving vulnerable adults.
This includes myriad agencies, such as Arizona's Adult Protective Services, Arizona Department of Health Services and more.
The episode takes you behind the scenes into a state task force meeting to hear heartbreaking testimony from victims and their families, and how local leaders are hoping to improve conditions.
The state task force convened after a woman with severe disabilities was raped and gave birth at Hacienda HealthCare in December 2018. Staff at the facility was unaware the woman was pregnant until she went into labor, according to 911 calls.
--…
Jan 8, 2020
What to expect in Governor Ducey's 2020 State of the State
The annual State of the State address is an opportunity for Gov. Doug Ducey to lay out his agenda for 2020, unveil new policy proposals and reflect on the controversies and successes of 2019.
This week on The Gaggle, an Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen talk to State Legislature reporter Andrew Oxford and state government and politics reporter Maria Polletta about what to expect from Ducey in this year's address.
In this episode you'll hear about:
Ducey's plans for education, infrastructure and occupational licensing
How the State Legislature might respond during session
How 2020's election season will affect the Legislative session
Related reading:
What Gov. Ducey's 2019 budget proposal adds in Arizona education spending
From 2019: Ducey's budget seeks to widen I-17 north of Phoenix, address weekend backups
Here's what you need to know about Arizona's new law for out-of-state work licenses
Gov. Doug Ducey asks Arizona Att…
Jan 1, 2020
How to survive the 2020 election
The American Psychological Association's "Stress in America 2019" survey found that 62% of Americans say they're stressed by the current political climate. And 62% say that the future of the country is a significant source of stress.
Dr. Lynn Bufka is the executive director of practice, research and policy at the American Psychological Association. She joins hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen on this week's episode of The Gaggle, a political podcast from The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com.
In this episode, you'll hear:
About the uptick in stress related to politics and how the APA is measuring it
How stress affects our overall well-being
What strategies or resources exist for people who are feeling particularly burdened by politics
How our hosts are gearing up for the next election cycle
Dec 25, 2019
Merry Christmas and happy holidays from The Gaggle!
Merry Christmas and happy holidays from The Gaggle! We're taking a week off to spend time with family and friends. But we wanted to say thank you for giving us your time and attention this year. We'll join you again in 2020 and we're already gearing up for the election-related news to come. Happy holidays, all!
Dec 18, 2019
Six political stories that will be important for Arizonans in 2020
From legalizing recreational marijuana to the presidential election of 2020, there is a lot for Arizonans to watch out for in the coming year.
This week on the Gaggle, an Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen sit down with state government reporter Andrew Oxford to go over the six biggest stories they'll be following next year.
In this episode, you'll hear about:
Arizona's significance in the presidential election
Voter access during the primary election
State House and Senate races
Legalizing recreational marijuana in Arizona
How changing demographics could reshape Arizona's political climate
Related reading:
Maricopa County will nearly quadruple polling places for presidential primary as compared to 2016
Lawsuit challenges Arizona's deadline for mail ballots
Arizona county recorders falling short on web security, expert says
Where Sen. Martha McSally and her Democratic challenger Mark Kelly stand on DACA
Here's what you need to…
Dec 11, 2019
Rural families suffer as Arizona's groundwater supply plummets
Groundwater levels in many parts of rural Arizona are plummeting. That's because outside investors are buying land, drilling large wells and pumping out water for industrial farms.
The investors are drawn to Arizona for its lack of regulation, but nearby residents are enduring the consequences. While investors have the money to drill wells that are four times as deep, nearby families cannot complete. Instead, their wells are going dry.
In this week's Gaggle, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen sit down with environmental reporter Ian James and data reporter Rob O'Dell to discuss how lawmakers are managing Arizona's next water crisis.
Dec 4, 2019
Arizona elections are coming. Is your vote secure?
As Arizona’s national prominence rises going into the 2020 election cycle, there will be concerns about voter security and allegations of voter fraud in the state. In 2016, Arizona's voter-registration system was targeted in at least two hacking attempts connected to Russia.
There are no instances we know of somebody changing someone else’s vote in Arizona, and prosecutions related to voter fraud are highly rare.
This week's episode of The Gaggle podcast breaks down all you need to know about Arizona election security going into next year's election cycle. We talk with Andrew Oxford, a government reporter, who's been investigating voter security.
In this episode you'll hear:
Should you be worried about your vote?
What are the weaknesses in Arizona's election system?
What changes could government make to secure your vote?
Nov 27, 2019
Is it time to panic about the economy?
Since the Great Recession ended in June 2009, the economy has continued to expand. This summer, the United States broke its record for the longest economic expansion. But now people are worried: How long will it last? Is the economy about to burst?
National political reporters Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen sit down with business reporter Russ Wiles to discuss the nation's economy, how Arizona's faring, and what role the economy will play in the 2020 election cycle.
Nov 20, 2019
How Republicans will target 142,000 Arizonans to register to vote for Trump in 2020
Two political action committees, The Committee to Defend the President and GreatAmerica PAC, are heading up a voter drive to identify and register 142,000 potential voters in Arizona.
The PACs are using data mining to find and target nonvoters who they think could be swayed to register to vote – and to vote for Trump. Trump narrowly won Arizona by just over 90,000 votes. They hope their efforts will keep Arizona red in 2020.
This week on The Gaggle Podcast hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald Hansen talk with Ted Harvey, the chairman of The Committee to Defend the President. Listen to hear his plans to keep Trump in the White House.
In this episode you'll hear:
How the PACs are targeting the potential voters
Why they are focusing on Arizona
How successful the voter drives are
Nov 13, 2019
How the massacre of a family in Mexico impacts Arizona travel, politics
Three women and six children were killed in an ambush in a small town about a three-hour drive from the Arizona border on Nov. 4. The families had dual U.S. and Mexican citizenship and lived in a small town in Mexico. The horrific event captured the nation's attention, including President Donald Trump.
"This is the time for Mexico, with the help of the United States, to wage WAR on the drug cartels and wipe them off the face of the earth," Trump wrote on twitter.
This week's episode of The Gaggle podcast breaks down how the killing of the family could impact U.S.-Mexico relations, including travel and politics. Hosts Yvonne Wingett-Sanchez and Ronald Hansen talk with immigration reporter Daniel Gonzalez.
In this episode you'll hear:
The history of the families in Mexico, who were members of a fundamentalist Mormon sect
How violence in Mexico could impact Arizona
How the massacre could impact the 2020 elections
Nov 6, 2019
Illegal adoption scheme reveals weak Arizona oversight
Prosecutors say Paul Petersen, in his private-sector career as a Mesa adoption attorney, illegally arranged for pregnant women from the Marshall Islands to fly to the U.S. to deliver their babies. They allege Petersen fraudulently registered the women for the state's Medicaid system and then arranged the adoptions of their children for up to $40,000.
Hear everything you need to know about this scandal in this week's episode of The Gaggle, a podcast from The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com.
Oct 30, 2019
How Tucson's historic mayoral race may impact the U.S. Senate race
Regina Romero is the front runner and likely winner in the Tucson mayoral race. She made headlines over the summer for winning the Democratic primary. If she wins, she would become the first Latina mayor of Arizona's second largest city. No other Hispanic person has held this office since the late 1800s when Arizona was still a territory.
This week on The Gaggle podcast we talk to Arizona Daily Star political reporter Joe Ferguson to break down what a Romero win would mean for Tucson. The future Tucson mayor could greatly impact the U.S. Senate race considering that both candidates are from the area.
In this episode you'll hear:
Who is running for Tucson mayor
What the Tucson electorate looks like
A breakdown of how the mayoral race reflects on Arizona political trends.
Oct 23, 2019
Interview with new Maricopa County attorney Allister Adel
Allister Adel was named the first female Maricopa County attorney on Oct. 3, replacing Bill Montgomery, who was appointed to the Arizona Supreme Court in September. Last week, she announced her transition team and outlined how she plans to move forward in her new appointment.
Adel sat down with Ronald Hansen, host of The Gaggle podcast from The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, for a one-on-one interview.
She outlined what changes she has planned for the Maricopa County Attorney's Office and how she hopes to regain the trust of the community while the office faces ethics complaints.
Listen to the 13-minute interview below to hear more.
In this episode you'll hear:
A short biography of Adel's career
Adel's response to the ethic complaints against prosecutor Juan Martinez
Our experts' thoughts about the 2020 election for the office of Maricopa County attorney
Oct 18, 2019
BONUS: Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet brings his presidential campaign to Tempe
Hoping to capture the attention of Arizona voters, presidential candidate Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., met with local education leaders during a round table at Tempe High School last week.
He also sat down with Yvonne Wingett Sanchez, the host of The Gaggle podcast from The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, for a one-on-one interview.
During the interview, Bennet explained why his message should resonate with Arizona voters. He also discussed his concerns over the impeachment inquiry.
Listen to the 11-minute interview below to hear more from the candidate.
In this episode you'll hear:
Bennet's plan to address the immigration issues in the country
His thoughts on how to help middle-class citizens in America
Thoughts from our experts on why Bennet is remaining in the race
Oct 16, 2019
How the Navajo Generating Station closing foreshadows the future of coal
The Navajo Generating Station closing is a case study for what will be repeated dozens of times across the west: The coal industry has been declining for decades and many plants won't survive.
From President John F. Kennedy in the 1960s to current President Donald Trump, saving coal has been a large talking point for politicians. However, because it's cheaper to meet electricity demand with other forms of renewable energy, many coal plants are finding it hard to stay open.
This week's episode of The Gaggle podcast looks at the impact NGS's closing has on the plant workers and local communities. We hear from Ryan Randazzo, a business reporter, who breaks down what is in store for the future.
In this episode you'll hear:
What economic harm will be caused by the Navajo Generating Station's closure
Who tried to save it
Whether there are any benefits to closing it
Oct 9, 2019
Talking to Beto O'Rourke about his run for president and his views on assault rifles
In this episode, you'll hear O'Rourke's discuss:His plans to win Arizona as a progressive Democrat How to make meaningful healthcare changesThe impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump The country's standing with ally nations Whether his gun proposal makes it less likely to get something done Border security and illegal immigration The economy
Oct 5, 2019
BONUS: Interview with Steve Bullock, the Montana governor running for President
Can the Democratic governor of Montana win over supporters of President Donald Trump?
That's what Gov. Steve Bullock is betting on. The 2020 presidential candidate is polling too low to make it on stage for any of the Democratic debates so far, but he hasn't dropped out of the race.
In this week's episode of The Gaggle, a politics podcast from The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, Bullock told national political reporter Ronald J. Hansen that he's the only candidate in the Democratic field who can win in red states. Bullock said his ability to speak to conservative voters is what sets him apart from his opponents.
Listen to this 15-minute interview to hear more about Bullock's policy priorities and strategy for beating President Donald Trump in the 2020 general election, should he win the primary.
Oct 4, 2019
BONUS: An interview with Vice President Mike Pence on McSally's election, Ukraine
When Vice President Mike Pence came to Phoenix this week, high-dollar donors weren't the only ones to hear from him.
In this week's bonus episode of The Gaggle, a politics podcast from The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, Pence spoke to host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez for an exclusive one-on-one interview.
Pence talked to us about Sen. Martha McSally, R-Ariz., and why he supports her election in 2020.
Listen to this six minute interview to hear Pence's response to the impeachment inquiry and what is in the future for the Trump-Pence team.
In this episode you'll hear:
Why he supports McSally's 2020 campaignA response from Pence about the Ukraine controversy A breakdown of the interview and what it means for the 2020 senate race
Oct 2, 2019
Where does Arizona's Congressional Delegation stand on the impeachment inquiry?
A member-by-member breakdown of where Arizona's leaders in the Senate and House of Representatives stand and the political implications for each.
National political reporters Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ron Hansen talk about:Sen. Kyrsten SinemaSen. Martha McSally Rep. Debbie LeskoRep. David Schweikert Rep. Paul GosarRep. Raul Grijalva Rep. Greg StantonRep. Ann Kirkpatrick Rep. Tom O'HalleranRep. Ruben GallegoRep. Andy Biggs
Sep 25, 2019
How a ruling on LGBT wedding invitations could broadly impact Arizona
The Arizona Supreme Court ruled in a 4-3 decision this month to allow the owners of Brush & Nib Studio to refuse to make custom wedding invitations for gay and lesbian couples.
In 2016, the owners sued the City of Phoenix over its anti-discrimination ordinance. The ruling seems like it only affects one business, but it could have broad impacts across Arizona and maybe even rise to the U.S. Supreme Court.
This week, The Gaggle podcast will break down how this state Supreme Court decision could impact same-sex couples and other minority groups. In this episode, we hear from Jessica Boehm, a Phoenix city hall reporter, and Shaun McKinnon, who previously reported on legal rights for the LGBT community.
In the episode you'll hear: How the case about wedding invitations for same-sex couples got to the Arizona Supreme Court What next steps the city might take How the LGBT community reacted to the legal decision
Sep 18, 2019
Three Arizonans have gotten sick from vaping. What's being done?
By now, you've likely seen headlines about vaping and how it's caused illness in hundreds of people across the U.S. and even a handful of confirmed deaths.
How popular is vaping in Arizona? Is vaping causing lung illnesses or deaths in metro Phoenix? How might the concern over vaping affect the state's medical-marijuana industry, which is one of the largest in the country?
In this week's episode of The Gaggle, a podcast from The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, hosts and political reporters Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ron Hansen talk with health care reporter Stephanie Innes and marijuana reporter Ryan Randazzo about the rise of vaping in Arizona.
Sep 11, 2019
All about your new Arizona Supreme Court justice Bill Montgomery
Bill Montgomery is the newest Arizona Supreme Court justice appointed by Gov. Doug Ducey.
The Arizona Supreme Court decides thousands of cases that affect your everyday lives, from education funding to abortion policies. (To hear more about it, listen to The Gaggle podcast's May 15 episode about the Arizona Supreme Court and Ducey’s previous appointments.)
This week, The Gaggle podcast will break down what you need to know about Montgomery's controversial prosecutorial record, his conservative politics and how he might approach the job of jurist on the state's highest court.
Hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald Hansen talk with Arizona Republic reporters Lauren Castle and Robert Anglen about this new appointment and how it might affect life in Arizona.
In the episode you'll hear:
What's at stake for Montgomery with this ethics complaintHow his appointment will shape the future of the state Supreme CourtHow his childhood shaped his political ideology
Sep 4, 2019
You may get to vote on legalizing marijuana in Arizona. Hear the details
The legalization of marijuana in Arizona could be up for a vote once again in 2020.
A group backing the movement released the language for a ballot measure in August for the first time. After a failed 2016 effort at legalization, Arizonans have been expecting the state's licensed medical-marijuana dispensaries to propose another measure.
In a previous episode of The Gaggle, the hosts looked at why Arizona is likely to legalize recreational marijuana and which political figures are changing their messaging on marijuana.
This week, The Gaggle podcasthosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald Hansen talk with Arizona Republic reporter Ryan Randazzo to break down what you need to know from the 16-page proposal.
In this episode you'll hear:
What would people be able to purchase under this initiative? How much revenue would recreational marijuana bring to the state? What is the likelihood this ballot measure will pass?
Aug 29, 2019
Joe Arpaio tells us why he's running for Maricopa County sheriff again
Former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio said he has few regrets and wants to serve the public as Sheriff again in an interview with The Gaggle podcast hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ron Hansen.
Arpaio, who is 87, served as Maricopa County sheriff from 1993 to 2016. He lost his 2016 race to Democratic challenger Paul Penzone. His tenure was marked by controversy, filled with investigations into his policing and jailing practices that brought many costly lawsuits.
Referring to his 2020 bid to become Maricopa County sheriff, Arpaio said he's "in it to win it." In the 30-minute sit-down interview, Arpaio said he wants to fight drug trafficking and illegal immigration and "put those tents back up."
He said "good things" he did (as sheriff) were "erased by a certain sheriff," referring to current Maricopa County Sheriff Paul Penzone. For all that and more, listen to this week's bonus episode of The Gaggle podcast.
Aug 28, 2019
Teachers accused of sex misconduct: How Arizona falls short in protecting kids
Arizona has about 55,000 certified, working teachers. Every year, about 40 teachers are disciplined by the Arizona State Board of Education or surrender their teaching certificate after allegations of sexual misconduct.
The Arizona Republic and KJZZ 91.5 FM, the Phoenix public radio station, together reviewed more than 180 allegations of teacher sexual misconduct from the past four years investigated by the Arizona Department of Education. The cases encompassed a range of offenses, raising questions about oversight and children's safety.
You can read Lily's portion of the investigation at positionoftrust.azcentral.com or listen to Mariana's audio stories at positionoftrust.kjzz.org.
You can report suspected child abuse, neglect, exploitation or abandonment to the Arizona Child Abuse Hotline at 1-888-SOS-CHILD or dcs.az.gov/report-child-abuse.
Aug 21, 2019
One year after John McCain's death exploring the senator's legacy
It's been a year since Arizona Sen. John McCain died of glioblastoma.
The six-term Republican senator is seen as one of the greats by his supporters, who mourn the loss of his bipartisan leadership. In today's increasingly divided political climate, his calls for unity continue to resonate. And his legacy dominates political conversation.
Now his supporters want to preserve and grow McCain's bipartisan legacy. One way they're doing that is through the McCain Institute, an organization at Arizona State University, which trains leaders from both parties in McCain's leadership style.
In this week's episode, The Gaggle hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald Hansen talk to two people who were close with McCain, Rick Davis and Jon Seaton, about the senator's lasting legacy. The two worked as political advisers to the senator in his presidential campaigns and are close to the McCain family.
In this episode you'll hear:
Why McCain is still a looming character in American politics.A behind…
Aug 14, 2019
What the Hacienda HealthCare scandal tells us about AZ care facilities
Hacienda HealthCare has been under international scrutiny since the January after an incapacitated patient was raped and gave birth. Another patient was found with maggots near a surgical wound. It sparked outrage over conditions at Hacienda, as well as fear over what might be happening at other care facilities across Arizona. Many of us are still wondering about the fallout.
Arizona officials and Hacienda claim they have taken appropriate action and things are better. Parents of patients at Hacienda say it’s a nice facility that they like. But a new investigation by The Arizona Republic reveals information about its condition and what it may mean for patients and the public more broadly.
The Gaggle's hosts Yvonne Wingett-Sanchez and Ronald Hansen talk with Republic's reporters Robert Anglen and Stephanie Innes to break down part of their subscriber exclusive investigation and what it tells us about Arizona care facilities.
How to get help in a care facility:
If you are concerned…
Aug 7, 2019
Senate candidate Mark Kelly discusses Arizona issues
Mark Kelly is running for the U.S. Senate and is expected to the Democratic nominee to challenge Republican Sen. Martha McSally. Kelly is a retired astronaut, former combat pilot and the husband of former U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. She represented the Tucson area in Congress for five years. The nation came to know Kelly in 2011, after a shooting in Tucson that left 6 dead and 13 injured, including his wife.
Kelly launched his U.S. Senate race in February and has garnered national attention. But Arizonans may have questions about how he would represent the state.
Does he support keeping the Affordable Care Act? What are his thoughts on the Green New Deal? Why should voters chose him over McSally? Mark Kelly joins the hosts of The Gaggle to answer that and more.
In this episode you'll hear:
How Mark Kelly plans to use the senate seat to impact ArizonaA 19-minute interview with Mark KellyA breakdown of the interview and what it means for 2020
Jul 31, 2019
How the national Democratic party plans to turn Arizona blue
Arizona will play a key role in the 2020 election, and Democrats across the country are hoping to turn the state blue. But how are they going to accomplish that in a historically red state?
Tom Perez, the Democratic National Committee chairman, recently visited Phoenix. Gaggle hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ron Hansen talked with him about the party's plans and priorities. Spoiler alert: it's all about health care.
Jul 24, 2019
What to know: Phoenix's August election could end light rail expansion
Props 105 and 106 could greatly limit services and transportation in Phoenix, but so far, they've gotten little attention. Phoenix voters will see the two propositions on their ballots in August.
What are they? Prop 105 would halt all light-rail expansions in Phoenix. Prop 106 would cap Phoenix government spending until the city pays down its pension debt — potentially limiting city services.
The Gaggle's hosts Yvonne Wingett-Sanchez and Ronald Hansen talk with The Arizona Republic's reporter Jessica Boehm to break down how these two ballot initiatives could affect the future of Phoenix and the Valley.
In this episode you'll hear: How light-rail expansion and pension budget funding affect you.Who is behind these propositions.Why Phoenix is having an August election.
Jul 17, 2019
What is Arizona doing about migrant housing facilities?
Gaggle podcast hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen interview former Phoenix Mayor and now Democratic Congressional Rep. Greg Stanton about what he learned touring the Customs and Border Patrol facility in Clint, Texas, and how he'd apply those lessons to a potential Phoenix facility.
Plus, hear from one of the reporters following migrant facilities in Arizona, Jeanette Hinkle, about the first-of-its-kind, non-governmental housing facility for migrants opening in a shuttered Phoenix school building.
Episode article link here.
Related reading:
-- Reports of misconduct and sexual assault of migrant kids surface at Yuma border facility
-- Phoenix approves migrant shelter for asylum-seekers at closed school
Jul 10, 2019
How have Arizona wildfires changed over the years?
Arizona's 10 largest wildfires have all happened in the last 17 years.
Most recently the Woodbury Fire, which started June 8 in the Superstition Wilderness, became the state's fifth largest fire. It has burned nearly 124,000 acres and by Tuesday it was 90 percent contained.
But that's part of a newer firefighting strategy. Firefighters have let it continue to burn because they are using it to their advantage. To find out why listen to this week's episode.
The Gaggle host Yvonne Wingett-Sanchez talks with The Arizona Republic reporters Bree Burkitt and Shaun McKinnon on the history of wildfires in Arizona and how they have changed over the years.
Jul 3, 2019
What you need to know about police shootings across Arizona
In 2018, police shootings hit record levels in Phoenix.
Reporters with The Arizona Republic investigated the state's police shootings for 19 months and found that the deadly trend extends across Arizona.
There were 117 police shootings statewide — a 75% increase from the previous year.
After compiling data from all 15 counties in Arizona, reporters Uriel J. Garcia and Bree Burkitt identified some key factors: guns, aggressive behavior, mental illness, training, and police culture.
This week's episode of The Gaggle podcast breaks down what you need to know from Garcia and Burkitt's investigation.
To read the report mentioned in this episode visit policeshootings.azcentral.com
Follow Yvonne Wingett Sanchez on Twitter @yvonnewingett
Follow Ronald J. Hansen on Twitter @ronaldjhansen
Follow Bree Burkett on Twitter @breeburkitt
Follow Uriel J Garcia on Twitter @ujohnnyg
Jun 26, 2019
Why Arizona will probably legalize recreational marijuana in 2020
First, Arizona legalized medical marijuana in 2010. Then came a failed attempt to legalize recreational marijuana in 2016. So why are those in the marijuana industry giddy at the thought of the future?
Political insiders don't think Gov. Doug Ducey will fundraise or campaign against recreational marijuana legalization in 2020 like he did in 2016. Plus, he recently signed a bill cutting the cost of a medical-marijuana card in half, greatly benefitting medical marijuana users.
The political shifts, combined with softening public sentiment toward marijuana usage, points to a 2020 political season ripe for legalizing recreational marijuana in Arizona.
Follow along on Twitter:
Yvonne Wingett Sanchez: @yvonnewingett
Ronald J. Hansen: @ronaldjhansen
Ryan Randazzo: @utilityreporter
All things politics from azcentral: @azcpolitics
Jun 19, 2019
Should your local lawmakers be allowed to block you on social media?
First Amendment rights for constituents and lawmakers alike can get fuzzy in the evolving age of social media. Is online communication the new town hall? When can and can't lawmakers block constituents on social media?
The Gaggle podcast hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ron Hansen break it down with a constituent who was blocked by his representative and says he knows many people who have been blocked by multiple Arizona lawmakers.
They also talk with a First Amendment lawyer, who says this is part of a controversial national trend that includes President Donald Trump.
If you ever use social media platforms such as Facebook or Twitter to watch or interact with lawmakers and politicians, this one's for you.
Jun 12, 2019
How two surprising new Phoenix City Council members could change our city
Phoenix City Council's two newest members, Betty Guardado and Carlos Garcia, were sworn in June 6. The two represent districts 5 and 8 respectively, some of the lowest-income neighborhoods in parts of west, south and downtown Phoenix.
Guardado and Garcia come from nontraditional backgrounds; Guardado has a background in union organizing, and Garcia led an immigrants rights activist group called Puente Arizona. Both also defeated their more traditional, experienced opponents.
What does this surprising election say about how Phoenix is changing? And how will residents feel the effects? The Gaggle podcast hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ron Hansen break it down with Phoenix City Hall reporter Jessica Boehm.
Jun 5, 2019
How the new Arizona state budget will affect you, your children and more
Here's how the 2019 state budget affects Arizona teachers, drivers, taxpayers, teachers and more. Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ron Hansen host.
Related reading:
How Arizona lawmakers did — and didn't — use your tax dollars in the new state budget
May 29, 2019
7 questions with presidential candidate Julian Castro about Arizona
As the former secretary of Housing and Urban Development under former President Barack Obama, Julian Castro is a rising star in the Democratic party. And he's one of 23 serious Democratic candidates running for President in 2020.
But are his policies on health care and the economy too liberal for Arizona? What would he do about immigration and the U.S.-Mexico border?
This week on The Gaggle podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett-Sanchez and Ron Hansen talk face-to-face with presidential candidate Julian Castro.
May 22, 2019
Could a California billionaire lower your APS rates?
California billionaire Tom Steyer will spend big money in Arizona to advertise against utility company APS's rate hike. What does it mean for you, and what's in it for him? The Gaggle podcast discusses.
Follow host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez on Twitter @yvonnewingett and Ron Hansen @ronaldjhansen.
Today's guest is business and energy reporter Ryan Randazzo, who's on Twitter @utilityreporter.
May 15, 2019
How Gov. Ducey's Arizona Supreme Court choices will affect your life
Gov. Doug Ducey will soon have appointed five of the seven Arizona Supreme Court justices. Here's how Gov. Ducey's choices could affect you.
For more reading:
- Ducey appoints Judge James Beene to Arizona Supreme Court, cementing handpicked majority
- A majority of the Arizona Supreme Court will soon be selected by Gov. Doug Ducey
To find the hosts and guest on Twitter, follow @yvonnewingett, @ronaldjhansen, or @mpolletta.
May 8, 2019
Why debate over your health care will take center stage in 2020
There is a very real possibility that the Affordable Care Act could be repealed before the next presidential election. And what is Medicare for All? The Arizona Republic’s national political reporters break it down with health care reporter Stephanie Innes.
May 1, 2019
What a tour of the U.S.-Mexico border tells us about hopes for immigration reform
Arizona Republic reporter Ron Hansen traveled to Southern Arizona in April to tour the U.S.-Mexico border with a group of members of the current Congress.
Coming to Arizona to tour the border is something of a rite of passage for Republican lawmakers.
In this episode of The Gaggle, Hansen talks with host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez about what he saw and what that might mean for the state of immigration reform.
Apr 24, 2019
Arizona's most successful copycat legislation: School vouchers
Arizona has served as a petri dish for groups that create and distribute "model" bills written by corporations and special-interest groups. Arizona's most successful copycat law yet: Empowerment Scholarship Accounts.
Apr 17, 2019
Copy-paste laws: How corporations are influencing your laws
Think your publicly elected leaders write the bills they sign into law? Not always. In fact, they often don't.
That's the conclusion of a two-year-long investigation by The Arizona Republic, USA TODAY and plus the Center for Public Integrity, which found that 10,000 bills across 50 state legislatures were in large part copied from "model" bills written by corporations and special-interest groups.
Apr 10, 2019
APS finally admits spending millions in dark money. Why now?
The secret that everyone suspected is finally out: Utility company Arizona Public Service admitted it donated millions to dark-money political groups in the 2014 Corporation Commission election to help two elect Republican regulators, Tom Forese and Doug Little.
It's controversial because the two men would help set the policies that guide APS as well as the prices that the company charges its customers.So APS was trying to influence its own regulation.
This week on The Gaggle podcast, national political reporters Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ron Hansen chat with utility reporter Ryan Randazzo about the subpoena that led to this disclosure from APS, as well as the FBI investigation into the utility company.
Apr 3, 2019
This Arizona bill could hurt Airbnb in your neighborhood
Chances are there's a home in your neighborhood that's available for short-term rental through Airbnb or VRBO. The practice has become more common since a state law passed in 2016 expanded protections for short-term rentals.
Now, some are saying short-term rentals are causing an affordable-housing shortage in their area, and others complain rentals have increased noise, trash and disturbance. And there's a bill making its way through the Arizona Legislature that might change that.
In this episode The Arizona Republic's national political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez demystifies short-term rentals along with Scottsdale reporter Lorraine Longhi and business and legislative reporter Ryan Randazzo.
Mar 27, 2019
Why does President Trump continue to attack John McCain?
As the 2020 campaign cycle kicks off, Arizonans can expect to hear President Donald Trump attack the late Sen. John McCain. But this puts Sen. Martha McSally in a precarious situation. Find out why in this week's episode as hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen chat with political editor Dan Nowicki.
Mar 20, 2019
Kate Gallego's plans for the future as Phoenix's mayor
It may have taken 18 months, but Kate Gallego won the special election to become Phoenix's mayor.
Gallego defeated former council colleague Daniel Valenzuela. Afer her swearing in on March 21, she'll serve out the rest of former Mayor Greg Stanton's term.
Why did the election take so long? And what's next for Gallego as she assumes her new role?
This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ron Hansen break down the election with reporter Jessica Boehm.
Mar 13, 2019
Is Michael Crow the most powerful person in Arizona?
Since becoming Arizona State University’s president in 2002, Michael Crow has influenced the state’s development and policy and has made national headlines along the way. The Arizona Republic’s higher-education reporter Rachel Leingang recently spent 26 hours with Crow for a profile of him and his impact. Political reporters Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ron Hansen talk with her about Crow and his power over the state.
Mar 6, 2019
Arizona's controversial vaccine bills draw national attention
Arizona is in the spotlight after controversial vaccine bills by Republican Rep. Nancy Barto were advanced by the state House Health and Human Services Committee this month, despite warnings from health officials.
Arizona Republic and azcentral.com healthcare reporter Stephanie Innes breaks down the headlines.
Feb 27, 2019
Why Arizona is facing a water crisis, and what happens next
Arizona gets almost 40 percent of its water from the Colorado River, which draws its water from Lake Mead, the biggest reservoir in the country. Right now, that reservoir is about 40 percent full and approaching its first shortage ever. What happens if there's a water shortage? Who and what will be affected and is there anything to be done? On this week's episode of The Gaggle podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ron Hansen discuss Arizona's water crisis and the Drought Contingency Plan with The Arizona Republic's environmental reporter and expert, Ian James.
Feb 20, 2019
What to know about the Phoenix mayor race
In the end, Phoenix will either have its first Latino or the first mother with a small child as mayor. This week, host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez talks with reporter Jessica Boehm about key issues in the race and differences between the two Democratic candidates.
Reach Yvonne on Twitter at @yvonnewingett and Jessica at @jboehm_NEWS.
Feb 13, 2019
The Gaggle Podcast goes to D.C.
Hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen chat with videographer David Wallace about their trip to Washington, D.C., last week to catch up with Arizona's newly sworn-in Congressional delegation. Listen along as they give you a behind-the-scenes look at how our U.S. Senators and Representatives from Arizona are mingling (or not) with each other and leaders from other states.
Watch David Wallace's video from U.S. Sen. John McCain's final resting spot in Annapolis, Maryland.
Feb 3, 2019
On the U.S.-Mexico border in a government shutdown
Is there a crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border? Politicians keep saying so. In light of a historic government shutdown, hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ron Hansen find out what it's like on the ground with Rafael Carranza, a border reporter at The Arizona Republic.
Jan 29, 2019
Breaking down the politics of funding local sports
Publicly-funded stadiums and arenas are costly. Why does the burden fall on taxpayers? The Gaggle breaks it down.
Jan 23, 2019
Here's what Gov. Ducey's latest budget could do for you
Ever hit a traffic jam coming back from up north on the I-17? Well the Governor's latest budget may have a solution. Reporter Maria Polletta joins host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez to talk about the parts of the budget most up for debate, including education funding.
Jan 15, 2019
Looking at Arizona's top education issues in 2019
Gov. Doug Ducey gave the State of the State address on Monday. With a new state superintendent of public instruction, more Democrats in the Arizona House of Representatives, and a projected $900 million surplus entering this Legislative session, what might he do with education in Arizona?
Have a question or comment? You can reach host Ron Hansen at twitter.com/ronaldjhansen.
This episode was produced by Téa Francesca Price and Taylor Seely, and edited by Kaila White.
Jan 8, 2019
8 new, interesting Arizona laws as of Jan. 1
Why does a new Arizona law make doctors ask women why they want an abortion? Host Ronald J. Hansen and azcentral reporter Dustin Gardiner chat about that, plus other new Arizona laws that impact your vehicle registration fees, medical bills and a myriad of other things.
Have a question or comment? You can reach host Ron Hansen at twitter.com/ronaldjhansen or state politics reporter Dustin Gardiner at twitter.com/dustingardiner.
This episode was produced by Téa Francesca Price and Taylor Seely and edited by Kaila White.
Dec 18, 2018
Looking to 2019, part 2: The 4 political issues you should be watching
Will Arizona’s power in D.C. diminish as Sen. Jon Kyl leaves and Sen.-elect Kyrsten Sinema steps up for her first term? Hosts Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen discuss what to watch for in Congress and speak with Republic reporters about Gov. Doug Ducey’s second term, the Arizona Legislature’s 2019 agenda, and the ongoing charter-school controversy.
Have a question or comment? You can reach host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez at twitter.com/yvonnewingett and political reporter Ron Hansen at twitter.com/ronaldjhansen.
This episode was produced by Téa Francesca Price and Taylor Seely and edited by Kaila White.
Dec 11, 2018
Looking to 2019, Part 1: Party leaders tell us their plans
The leaders of Arizona’s Democratic and Republican parties tell us their thoughts on what happened in the 2018 midterm elections and how they plan to pave the way for victory in the future. Felecia Rotellini, chairwoman of the Arizona Democratic Party, and Jonathan Lines, chairman of the Arizona Republican Party, give key insight into what might happen in 2019 and beyond. Have a question or comment? You can reach host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez at twitter.com/yvonnewingett and political reporter Ron Hansen at twitter.com/ronaldjhansen. This episode was produced by Téa Francesca Price and Taylor Seely and edited by Kaila White.
Dec 4, 2018
Have questions? Get answers.
Are you curious what the state legislature is up to next? Do you have a question for a particular reporter or producer at The Arizona Republic? Take part in The Gaggle's Q&A!
Call us at 602-444-4946 and leave us a voicemail.
Record a video of your question and direct message it to @yvonnewingett , @ronaldjhansen or @azcpolitics.
Send a voice-memo to tseely@arizonarepublic.com or tea.price@azcentral.com.
Then, tune in to see if your question is featured!
Dec 2, 2018
What former Rep. Ed Pastor left Arizona
Political consultant Ronnie Lopez talks about his close friend, former Congressman Ed Pastor. Pastor, who served Arizona in Washington for 23 years, died Nov. 27 after suffering a heart attack. He was 75. We look back on his legacy.
Have a question or comment? You can reach host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez at twitter.com/yvonnewingett and political reporter Ron Hansen at twitter.com/ronaldjhansen.
This episode was produced by Téa Francesca Price and Taylor Seely and edited by Kaila White.
Nov 27, 2018
Early ballots are altering how politicians target you. Here’s how
The advent of early balloting has put pressure on politicians to win votes sooner. In their pursuit of victory, campaigns are digging deeper into sophisticated data to target you.
Here's how to join in The Gaggle's Q&A episode:
1) Call us at 602-444-4946 and leave your question on a voicemail.
2) Record a video of your question and direct message it to @yvonnewingett , @ronaldjhansen or @azcpolitics.
3) Email a voice memo to tseely@arizonarepublic.com or tea.price@azcentral.com.
Then, tune in to see if your question is featured!
This episode was reported and produced by Téa Francesca Price and Taylor Seely and edited by Kaila White.
Nov 21, 2018
Funniest moments in Arizona politics in 2018
From Sacha Baron Cohen punking former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio to Steve Ferrara's legendary ad paid for by "AFBIC," 2018 was a year to remember in Arizona politics. Note: Some of the content in this episode may not be suitable for children. Have a question or comment? You can reach host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez at twitter.com/yvonnewingett and political reporter Ron Hansen at twitter.com/ronaldjhansen. This episode was reported and produced by Téa Francesca Price and Taylor Seely and edited by Kaila White.
Nov 13, 2018
Kyrsten Sinema just rewrote Democrats' playbook
Her triumph is the first for Democrats in an Arizona U.S. Senate race in 30 years, as well as the first for a woman in Arizona. How did she do it? We dive into how U.S. Sen.-elect Kyrsten Sinema rose above Republican candidate Martha McSally and her own Democratic party and analyze how her winning strategy will affect campaigns across the country leading into 2020. Have a question or comment? You can reach host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez at twitter.com/yvonnewingett and political reporter Ron Hansen at twitter.com/ronaldjhansen. This episode was reported and produced by Téa Francesca Price and Taylor Seely and edited by Kaila White.
Nov 6, 2018
Behind the scenes at The Arizona Republic on Election Day
We take you alongside reporters and inside the newsroom on Election Day. Hear a phone interview with Maricopa County Recorder Adrian Fontes, a gaggle with Gov. Doug Ducey outside his polling place, scenes from the Arizona Democratic Party’s roaring election night party and more. Have a question or comment? You can reach host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez at twitter.com/yvonnewingett and political reporter Ron Hansen at twitter.com/ronaldjhansen. This episode was reported and produced by Téa Francesca Price and Taylor Seely and edited by Kaila White.
Oct 28, 2018
Special guest: Gov. Doug Ducey reflects on four years
Host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez has covered Gov. Doug Ducey for years. Now he sits one-on-one with her to chat about the 2018 midterms, #RedforEd, March for Our Lives, replacing McCain, immigration and more. Note: This interview was recorded Oct. 15, 2018.
Have a question or comment? You can reach Yvonne at twitter.com/yvonnewingett and Gov. Doug Ducey at twitter.com/dougducey.
This episode was produced by Téa Francesca Price, Taylor Seely and Kaila White.
Oct 24, 2018
Inside Trump’s Arizona visit: What it means for midterms
From a presidential shoutout for Democratic U.S. Rep. Tom O' Halleran to whispers that Kelli Ward might endorse Republican Senate candidate Martha McSally (gasp!), President Donald Trump’s Arizona visit was rife with political strategy. We break down the key takeaways.
Have a question or comment? You can reach host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez at twitter.com/yvonnewingett and political reporter Ron Hansen at twitter.com/ronaldjhansen.
Help us improve by taking our 10-question survey to let us know what you think about the show: bit.ly/GaggleSurvey.
This episode was produced by Téa Francesca Price, Taylor Seely and Kaila White.
Oct 13, 2018
Why is everyone bringing up health care in Arizona's elections?
Democrats in Arizona campaign on health care like it’s nobody’s business, leaving Republicans to play defense. Polls show that health care is a top concern for Arizona voters, but when did this become such a big issue, and why?
Have a question or comment? You can reach host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez at twitter.com/yvonnewingett, political reporter Ron Hansen at twitter.com/ronaldjhansen and healthcare reporter Stephanie Innes at twitter.com/stephanieinnes.
Help us improve by taking our 10-question survey to let us know what you think about the show: bit.ly/GaggleSurvey.
This episode was produced by Téa Francesca Price, Taylor Seely and Kaila White.
Oct 10, 2018
Will the real Senate candidate please stand up?
Republican Martha McSally and Democrat Kyrsten Sinema are in a tight race for Sen. Jeff Flake's seat. Why, then, are they so quiet before Arizona's midterm elections?
Help us improve by taking our 10-question survey to let us know what you think about the show: bit.ly/GaggleSurvey.
Have a question or comment? You can reach host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez at twitter.com/yvonnewingett.
This episode was produced by Téa Francesca Price, Taylor Seely and Kaila White.
Oct 3, 2018
Three Arizona ballot propositions you should know
Ballot propositions are direct democracy in action. This year, Arizonans will cast their vote on a wide range of issues from education to clean energy to taxes. Grab your pencils. Here's what voters should know on Props 305, 127 and 126.
Help us improve by taking our 10-question survey to let us know what you think about the show: bit.ly/GaggleSurvey.
Have a question or comment? You can reach host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez at twitter.com/yvonnewingett.
This episode was produced by Lauren Aguirre, Tea Francesca Price, Taylor Seely and Kaila White.
Sep 26, 2018
She’s the ideal voter. Why does she still feel disenfranchised?
Kwailan Barsotti is a mom, small-business owner and independent voter who lives in the suburbs of Anthem, Ariz. She’s exactly the kind of person politicians are targeting during Arizona’s midterm elections, where suburban women could sway the vote. Yet Kwailan feels like no lawmakers or politicians are really listening to or representing her. That’s why her story is worth listening to.
Help us improve by taking our 10-question survey to let us know what you think about the show: bit.ly/GaggleSurvey.
Have a question or comment? You can reach host Yvonne Wingett Sanchez at twitter.com/yvonnewingett.
This episode was produced by Lauren Aguirre, Tea Francesca Price, Taylor Seely and Kaila White.
Sep 17, 2018
Arizona election spending hits record high: Here's how and why
We're back! Help us improve by taking our 10-question survey to let us know what you think about the show: bit.ly/GaggleSurvey.
Election spending for some 2018 midterm candidates and races in Arizona is hitting record highs. Arizona Republic reporters explain how and why Citizens United, super PACs, independent donors and more are working to influence your vote.
To hear more about election spending from Terry Goddard and Sean Noble: https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/politics/elections/2018/09/19/money-politics-what-you-need-know-goddard-noble/1266235002/
Follow the team on Twitter:
This episode features national political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen and business and legislative reporter Ryan Randazzo @utilityreporter.
Our producers are Lauren Aguirre @laurencaguirre, Tea Francesca Price @_tfprice, Taylor Seely @taylahseely and Kaila White @kailawhite.
Sep 12, 2018
Help Arizona Republic revamp 'The Gaggle'
The Arizona Republic is improving its politics podcast. Give us your feedback: https://bit.ly/GaggleSurvey Join us Wednesday, September 19th and every Wednesday after that.
Aug 29, 2018
Three big takeaways on Arizona primary election results
It was a strange election day in Arizona. The nation’s eyes are on the state after U.S. Sen. John McCain’s death Saturday. Both of our Senate seats are open. And for the first time in a long time, it looks like Democrats might stand a chance in the races for one of those Senate seats and maybe even for governor.
We take you inside two election parties where you can hear from winners Martha McSally and David Garcia as our political reporters share key insights on the Arizona primary and how it may impact November elections.
Follow the team on Twitter:
National political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen and state government and politics reporter Maria Polletta @mpolletta.
This episode was produced by Tea Francesca Price @_tfprice and Taylor Seely @taylahseely and was edited by Kaila White @kailawhite.
Aug 26, 2018
John McCain memories and quotes: Republic reporters discuss senator's legacy
After a 13-month battle with brain cancer, U.S. Sen. John McCain died Saturday, Aug. 25, at home in Arizona. He was 81.
Hear some of the most powerful quotes from McCain himself, heartfelt memories from his closest friends, reactions from world leaders including President Donald Trump and President Barack Obama, and insights from our political reporters on McCain’s life, legacy and what happens next.
Read, watch and hear more at mccain.azcentral.com.
Follow the team on Twitter:
National political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen and state government and politics reporter Maria Polletta @mpolletta.
This episode was produced and edited by Tea Francesca Price @_tfprice.
Aug 24, 2018
Special episode: Sen. John McCain to discontinue cancer treatment, family says
Senator John McCain will end medical treatment for the brain cancer he was diagnosed with over a year ago, according to statements released by his family. The six-term senator has continued Senate duties as much as he could from his family home in northern Arizona.
Reporters talk about the impact McCain's had on Arizona and what will happen if the Senate seat becomes vacant.
Follow the team on Twitter:
National political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen and investigative reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl.
This episode was produced and edited by Carly Henry.
Aug 21, 2018
Special guest: Democratic megadonor Tom Steyer on his political activities in Arizona
In this special episode, the team sat down with Tom Steyer, a California billionaire who is spending part of his fortune in Arizona's elections. Steyer's political organization has contributed a large amount of funds to support Arizona's clean energy ballot initiative.
The Gaggle comes to you every Monday. But next week, check your feed for the new episode on Wednesday instead. You'll hear the team's analysis of the primary election results.
Learn more with The Republic's coverage:
APS goes all out against clean energy initiative - https://azc.cc/2LeR6KS | Trial begins over renewable energy proposal - https://azc.cc/2wbivaS | From Des Moines Register: Tom Steyer on impeaching Trump - https://azc.cc/2OUowk0 | Find more at politics.azcentral.com
You can follow Tom Steyer on Twitter @TomSteyer.
Follow the team:
National political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, business and legislative reporter Ryan Randazzo @utilityreporter, reporter Richard Ruelas @ruelaswritings,…
Aug 20, 2018
Is your vote secure in the 2018 midterms?
Arizona's primary is Aug. 28. Federal and state officials are working to ensure the security of voter information in light of Russian hacking in 2016. How secure are these systems? What should you do when mailing in your ballot? And what should you bring to the polls on election day?
Keep an eye out for a special episode of The Gaggle posting later this week. The team sat down with a California billionaire who is spending part of his fortune in Arizona's elections.
The Gaggle comes to you every Monday. But next week, check your feed for the new episode on Wednesday instead. You'll hear the team's analysis of the primary election results.
Learn more with The Republic's coverage:
Feds say Russian attempts to disrupt midterms ongoing - https://azc.cc/2OKIFZJ | Arizona servers used by Russian hackers in 2016 - https://azc.cc/2zF2tLq | Secretary of state candidates spar over voter-registration rules - https://azc.cc/2OP1P0p | Voter’s guide: Learn more about Arizona candidates - https:…
Aug 13, 2018
Social media and elections: Can your vote be influenced?
Federal authorities face the daunting job of trying to ensure the 2018 midterms are not influenced by foreign entities. Social media platforms are cracking down on bot and spam accounts. How can you tell if an account isn't genuine?
The Gaggle will now come to you every Monday. Look out for new episodes each week in your podcast feed.
Learn more with The Republic's coverage:
Fake Twitter accounts supporting Gov. Ducey - https://azc.cc/2MBCwyi | Russians played up Glendale murder-suicide in 2016 - https://azc.cc/2rD6Lwj | What is the QAnon conspiracy theory movement? - https://azc.cc/2Mww2AW | Find more at politics.azcentral.com
Follow the team on Twitter:
National political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, reporter Richard Ruelas @ruelaswritings and reporter Kaila White @kailawhite.
This episode was edited and produced by Lauren Aguirre @laurencaguirre.
Aug 6, 2018
How Arizona's economy might shift votes in 2018 elections
Arizona is seeing economic growth, but financial prosperity is not being equally felt across the state. How can economic sentiments among voters affect the 2018 elections? Also, the team takes you into the rooms where Republican Senate and governor candidates each faced off in front of The Arizona Republic editorial board.
The Gaggle will now come to you every Monday. Look out for new episodes each week in your podcast feed.
Learn more with The Republic's coverage:
Arizona ranks No. 5 in economic momentum - https://azc.cc/2nf0Laq | 1 in 4 Arizona children in poverty - https://azc.cc/2N7p3ik | Senate candidates Martha McSally and Kelli Ward clash - https://azc.cc/2LGlRxi | Gov. Doug Ducey and challenger Ken Bennett debate - https://azc.cc/2OoVUQu | Find more at http://politics.azcentral.com
Follow the team on Twitter:
National political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, state government and politics reporter Maria P…
Jul 25, 2018
How independent voters could shake Arizona elections
Independent voters are on the verge of making up the largest electoral block in Arizona. Here's what that means for the upcoming elections.
Follow the team on Twitter:
National/political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, political reporter Richard Ruelas @ruelaswritings, and diversity and inequality reporter Maria Polletta @mpolletta.
This episode was edited by Sierra Juarez @sierraraejuarez. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Jul 20, 2018
Special edition: Arizona’s party leaders share how President Trump will affect the midterm elections
Chair of the Democratic Party Felecia Rotellini and former chair of the Republican Party Robert Graham share their thoughts on the midterms. They talk about everything from the “Trump affect” to how their parties are campaigning. And they spill some interesting tea.
Follow the team on Twitter:
National political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, reporter Richard Ruelas @ruelaswritings, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, and state government reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl.
This episode was edited by Sierra Juarez @sierraraejuarez. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Jul 11, 2018
Supreme Court pick: What it means and reactions from Arizona
How will the new Supreme Court pick affect monumental rulings like Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion throughout the nation? What did Arizona politicians have to say about President Donald Trump's choice? And what's that about the Arizona Cardinal's president weighing in on the Supreme Court pick? The politics team answers these questions and more in this episode of The Gaggle.
Follow the team on Twitter:
National/political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, and courts reporter Michael Kiefer @MichaelBKiefer.
This episode was edited by Sierra Juarez @sierraraejuarez. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Jul 4, 2018
Melania Trump's visit to Arizona, cities sue opioid manufacturers — and more
First lady Melania Trump visited Arizona last week. Reporters break down why Trump came and what we saw inside a detention center for immigrants. And an inside look into the bribery case involving well-known Arizona lobbyist Jim Norton. Lastly reporters discuss how Arizona communities, along with other cities throughout the nation, are suing opioid manufacturers. How could the suit affect people who need the pain medications? All this and more in this week’s episode of The Gaggle.
Follow the team on Twitter:
National/political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, business and legislative reporter Ryan Randazzo @utilityreporter, reporter Dennis Wagner @azrover and reporter Richard Ruelas @ruelaswritings.
This episode was edited by Sierra Juarez @sierraraejuarez. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Jun 26, 2018
Special guest: RedForEd's Noah Karvelis on Arizona education
Education is a hot-button topic in Arizona. What does RedForEd's Noah Karvelis have to say leading up to the November education ballot initiative? And what are the changes he's seen in the teacher strike movement over the past several months? He answers all that and more in this episode of The Gaggle.
Follow the team on Twitter:
National/political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, staff reporter Richard Ruelas @ruelaswritings, staff reporter Ricardo Cano @RicardoCano1, and local politics and issues reporter Alia Rau @AliaRau.
This episode was edited by Sierra Juarez @sierraraejuarez. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Jun 20, 2018
Family separation at the border and Gov. Doug Ducey's campaign for re-election
The politics team talks about immigrant children being separated from their families at the U.S.-Mexico border and Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey's campaign announcement.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Interim national/political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, staff reporter Richard Ruelas @ruelaswritings, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, and and higher education reporter Rachel Leingang @rachelleingang.
This episode was edited by Sierra Juarez @sierraraejuarez. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Jun 12, 2018
Talking Theranos, fraudulent AZ petitions, immigration reform
The Arizona Republic's politics team discusses how potential immigration reform will impact DACA and refugees, how what happened with Theranos may be reflective of a larger Arizona issue, and fraudulent signatures in a Senate race.
Follow the team on Twitter:
National/political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, immigration reporter Daniel González @azdangonzalez and higher education reporter Rachel Leingang @rachelleingang.
This episode was edited by Sierra Juarez @sierraraejuarez. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Jun 5, 2018
Talking corruption trial with special guest, criminal defense attorney
Mike Black, a prominent criminal defense attorney, speaks about an Arizona coruption trial involving the Ex-Corporation Commissioner Gary Pierce, his wife Sherry Pierce, Jim Norton, a lobbyist, and George Johnson, water company owner. The #RedForEd movement impacts who is running for state legislature this year. And how much are university officials in Arizona making?
Follow the team on Twitter:
Business reporter Ryan Randazzo @utilityreporter, higher education reporter Rachel Leingang @rachelleingang and legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
May 31, 2018
Special guest: David Garcia, Democratic gubernatorial candidate
David Garcia, who seeks the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, joins The Gaggle in a first-ever, guest episode to discuss his campaign and education in Arizona.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Interim national/political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, education reporter Ricardo Cano @Ricardo_Cano1, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen and guest David Garcia @dg4az.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
May 22, 2018
Renewable energy controversy, special session over gun control, Gosar lives outside his district
Arizona Public Service is backing a ballot initiative from state utility regulators that would significantly boost the requirements for renewable energy. Will Arizona see a special session over gun control after yet another school shooting in Texas? And Rep. Paul Gosar still rents a Prescott apartment in Arizona's 4th Congressional District, but lives primarily in Flagstaff.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Interim national/political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, and business reporter Ryan Randazzo @utilityreporter.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
May 15, 2018
Russian Facebook ads, migrant caravan, fraud allegations in marijuana dispensaries
Russian Facebook ads played up a murder-suicide of two Arizona teens during the 2016 election. Organizers of the migrant caravan that traveled through Mexico to the U.S. border say they are planning another caravan next year despite backlash from Trump and his administration. And zoning battles over medical-marijuana dispensaries in Phoenix have raised fraud allegations.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Interim national/political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, immigration reporter Daniel González @azdangonzalez, Phoenix City Hall reporter Jessica Boehm @jboehm_NEWS.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
May 9, 2018
#RedForEd takeaways, Sen. John McCain health updates
After Arizona's legislature approved a plan for 20 percent pay raises for teachers by 2020, the leaders of the #RedForEd movement feel like they got cheated on their demands. Now they're working to collect 150,000 signatures by July 5 to get the Invest in Education Act initiative on the November ballot. And Sen. John McCain's funeral arrangements have been made.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Interim national/political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, education reporter Ricardo Cano @Ricardo_Cano1, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
May 2, 2018
#RedForEd teacher walkout, budget bills drop, CD8 race takeaways
Arizona's #RedForEd teacher walkout moves into its fifth day as teachers continue to protest low pay. Budget bills have dropped at the state Capitol, but what's buried in them? And how did Democrat Hiral Tipirneni pull off such a close race in deep-red Congressional District 8 and what does her 5-point loss mean for Republicans heading into midterms?
Follow the team on Twitter:
Interim national/political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, education reporter Ricardo Cano @Ricardo_Cano1, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, and interim governor's office reporter Richard Ruelas @ruelaswritings.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Apr 17, 2018
Teachers on walkouts, abortion requirements, CD8 election, sober homes
Teachers are still talking about a walkout even after Gov. Doug Ducey proposed increasing their pay 20 percent by 2020. Arizona has a new abortion reporting requirement. With an election in the 8th Congressional District next week, the race between Democrat Hiral Tipirneni and Republican Debbie Lesko is heating up. And sober homes that provide people a place to live while recovering from substance abuse will have increased oversight from the state of Arizona.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Interim national/political reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, education reporter Ricardo Cano @Ricardo_Cano1, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, and health care reporter Ken Alltucker @kalltucker.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Apr 11, 2018
Special edition: Cathi Herrod's unscripted conversation on Arizona's school voucher program
In a recording obtained by The Arizona Republic, Center for Arizona Policy President Cathi Herrod has an unscripted conference call with Christian school leaders about Arizona's school voucher program. Herrod shares her real thoughts on the Empowerment Scholarship Account program, a controversial program that allows certain students to use public money to pay for private and religious schools.
Follow the team on Twitter:
The governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett and investigative and data reporter Rob O'Dell @robodellaz.
This episode was edited by digital producer Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Music: bensound.com
Apr 3, 2018
2020 census citizenship question, inside a 'D' school in Arizona, DACA tuition rates
A citizenship question on the 2020 census was reinstated by the Trump administration and could hurt Arizona more than other states. Morale is down inside a 'D'-ranked school in Arizona, correlating with teacher's frustrations over funding and pay. Will DACA students, undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children, continue to receive in-state tuition?
Follow the team on Twitter:
The governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, Mesa and Gilbert watchdog reporter Lily Altavena @lilyalta, higher education reporter Rachel Leingang @rachelleingang, diversity and inequality reporter Maria Polletta @mpolletta.
This episode was edited by digital producer Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Mar 29, 2018
Ducey and self-driving cars, Prop. 123, new sex harassment investigation
Gov. Doug Ducey's office releases records about self-driving cars in Arizona weeks after an autonomous Uber SUV hit and killed a pedestrian. Ducey pushed Proposition 123 in 2016 to fund schools, tapping into the state's land trust fund, but a judge rules that his ballot initiative was illegal. And a new sexual harassment investigation of 'sexually explicit communications' is underway at the state Capitol.
Follow the team on Twitter:
The governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, business and legislative reporter Ryan Randazzo @utilityreporter, and legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Mar 15, 2018
Gun control and education funding for Arizona teachers and schools
Arizona could see stricter gun laws with support from Gov. Doug Ducey after he said he would ask lawmakers to adopt a law that would take guns away from people who are violent or mentally ill. Students nationwide protested gun-violence in the March for Our Lives and teachers wore red for the #RedForEd campaign to protest low pay.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Child welfare and state government reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner and investigative reporter Craig Harris @charrisazrep.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com
Mar 6, 2018
Arizona registration increase, Scottsdale schools investigation, charter schools broke
The Attorney General's Office wants answers on construction contracts with Scottsdale Unified School District. Arizona motorists could soon pay more for vehicle registration as state lawmakers search for money to repair crumbling roads and bridges. And dozens of Arizona charters schools are at risk of closing due to financial struggles.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, Scottsdale watchdog reporeter Yihyun Jeong @yihyun_jeong, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, data reporter Agnel Philip @agnel88_philip.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Feb 28, 2018
CD8 primary election, U of A basketball scandal, secret sex harassment records
Voters advance Republican Debbie Lesko and Democrat Hiral Tipirneni in the race to replace Trent Franks in Congressional District 8. The University of Arizona's basketball program is under fire after the FBI intercepted phone conversations where coach Sean Miller talked about paying a star player $100,000 to join the Wildcats. And the House of Representatives won't release additional records from its sexual harassment investigations.
Follow the team on Twitter:
The governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, higher-education reporter Anne Ryman @anneryman, and legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Feb 22, 2018
Montenegro's flirty texts, Arizona's sports stadium funding, Ducey's 676 cuts
Days before launching his congressional campaign, former state Senator Steve Montenegro and a state Senate staffer exchanged flirty messages, including a topless photo. Arizona could soon join a national compact to ban taxpayer-funded professional sports facilities. And Gov. Doug Ducey said he's axed 676 regulations since taking office.
Follow the team on Twitter:
The governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, business and legislative reporter Ryan Randazzo @utilityreporter, and Phoenix City Hall reporter Jessica Boehm @jboehm_NEWS.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Feb 13, 2018
Shooter privately investigated, new abortion bill, Montenegro's legal path to the U.S.
Women seeking abortions in Arizona might have to explain to doctors why they want to end their pregnancy under a new bill. Steve Montenegro immigrated to the U.S. with his family through a special work-related provision that's not always available to migrants. Don Shooter left a "dossier" after he was expelled from the House with claims that he was privately investigated and the Governor's office plotted to remove him from office.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, the governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, and business and legislative reporter Ryan Randazzo @utilityreporter.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Feb 6, 2018
Shooter expelled, Ducey wants tax collectors, Gosar clashes with Latino Democrats
Arizona's House of Representatives voted to immediately expel Rep. Don Shooter in a historic vote after an investigation found he sexually harassed women for many years. Gov Doug Ducey wants the state Department of Revenue to hire 25 tax collectors after the state lost $83 million in audit revenue. Rep. Paul Gosar continues to feud with Latino Democrats after his call to arrest "dreamers" —
undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children by their families — who attended Trump's State of the Union as lawmakers' guests.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, the governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, and business and legislative reporter Ryan Randazzo @utilityreporter.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Jan 30, 2018
Native American Day, CD8 debate, Doug Ducey at Koch brothers’ retreat
Jamescita Peshlakai, a Navajo lawmaker, leads efforts to establish Native American Day in Arizona. Republican candidates in the race for the 8th Congressional District seat battled over their loyalty to President Donald Trump. Gov. Doug Ducey calls for a special session over opioids and heads to a Koch brothers’ retreat in Palm Springs.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, the governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, and diversity, demographics and inequality reporter Maria Polletta @mpolletta.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Jan 23, 2018
English-only insurance bill, Ducey on blowout bars and public relations
Gov. Doug Ducey wants to deregulate blow dry bars and Arizona cosmetologists are offended. Taxpayers are spending about a million dollars more for public relations workers under Gov. Doug Ducey, who said he planned to cut back government spending. Non-English speakers who buy auto or home insurance in Arizona could be bound to a contract that they cannot read.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, the governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, investigative reporter Craig Harris @charrisazrep, and business and legislative reporter Ryan Randazzo @utilityreporter.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Jan 16, 2018
Ducey's budget, conversion therapy, bump stock ban
U.S. Rep. Martha McSally officially enters Arizona's senate race. Gov. Doug Ducey releases his budget with spending increases for school funding. Sen. Sean Bowie introduces a bill to ban conversion therapy and another bill would ban bump stocks in Arizona.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, national political reporter Dan Nowicki @dannowicki, diversity, demographics and inequality reporter Maria Polletta @mpolletta, and business and legislative reporter Ryan Randazzo @utilityreporter.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Jan 7, 2018
Arpaio runs for Senate, Ducey's State of the State, Shooter apologizes for sex harassment
Former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio announces his campaign to run for U.S. Senate. Gov. Doug Ducey makes six promises in the final State of the State speech during his first term. Rep. Don Shooter apologizes for making inappropriate comments on the House floor, breaking his silence that he sexually harassed multiple women.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, the governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner and national political reporter Dan Nowicki @dannowicki.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Dec 21, 2017
The Gaggle: The Year in Stories
The Republic's politics team looks back on the year's most impacting stories that they worked on this year.
Dec 8, 2017
The Gaggle: Deconstructing the Republican tax plan
The Republic's politics team talks Jeff Flake's controversial endorsement check, the state's child welfare agency and how the Republican tax plan will impact Arizonans.
This episode was edited by Johanna Huckeba @jojo_huck.
Nov 29, 2017
Raúl Grijalva’s hostile work environment, Republican tax plan, John Giles faces backlash
Arizona Rep. Raúl Grijalva approved a $48,000 settlement to a woman who accused him of being drunk and creating a hostile work environment. Sens. John McCain and Jeff Flake could be key votes for or against the Republican tax plan. State Sen. Kimberly Yee, R-Phoenix, announces her bid to run for Arizona treasurer next year, replacing Treasurer Jeff DeWitt. And Mesa Mayor John Giles faces backlash from his conservative constituents after calling President Donald Trump an idiot and encouraging Sen. Jeff Flake to run for president.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, and Mesa and Gilbert reporter Lily Altavena @lilyalta.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Nov 22, 2017
A memorable year in Arizona's delegation, voter registration numbers
It’s been a memorable and historic year for Arizona’s delegation and Washington, D.C., correspondent for USA Today Eliza Collins provides some perspective from Capitol Hill. Democrats say the election of Donald Trump has increased their base, but Arizona’s voter registration numbers show otherwise. And the State Court of Appeals has reversed a decision to sever a mother’s rights to her children saying the case was not sufficiently rooted in evidence.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, congressional reporter for USA Today @elizacollins1, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, and government and child welfare reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Nov 14, 2017
Sex allegations against Don Shooter, is Arizona’s foster care system too white?
A flood of sexual harassment allegations continues to run out of Arizona’s State Capitol. At least seven women have publicly accused Rep. Don Shooter of sex harassment, including Mi-Ai Parrish, publisher and president of The Arizona Republic. Arizona’s Foster Care Review Boards, volunteer groups that decide the fate of children in the foster care system, are overwhelmingly white and do not represent the communities they serve in race, ethnicity or socioeconomic status. Congressman Tom O’Halleran’s office is located outside of his district and his opponents are not happy.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen and diversity and demographics reporter Maria Polletta @@mpolletta.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Nov 6, 2017
Martha McSally enters the 2018 Senate race, sex harassment in Arizona’s Legislature
Rep. Michelle Ugenti-Rita, R-Scottsdale, said in a tweet on Monday that Rep. Don Shooter, R-Yuma, is one of Arizona’s male lawmakers that she was sexually harassed by. Congresswoman Martha McSally enters Arizona’s 2018 Senate race. Greg Stanton has still not resigned from his post as mayor, impacting the fate of big voting decisions in Phoenix. Gov. Doug Ducey asked state agencies to remove whether a candidate has been convicted of a crime or not from their job applications in the hopes of eliminating employer prejudice and recidivism.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, the governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen and Phoenix city hall reporter Jessica Boehm @jboehm_NEWS.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Oct 31, 2017
Bisbee's plastic bag ban, KidsCare loses funding and Arizona's Senate race continues
Bisbee backs off its plastic bag ban. KidsCare, a program that ensures children and low-income families, has run out of funding without a renewal from Congress. And potential candidates like U.S. Reps. Martha McSally and Paul Gosar continue to eye Sen. Jeff Flake's open Senate seat.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, state and government reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner and congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Oct 24, 2017
Flake will not seek re-election to U.S. Senate and sexual harassment in Arizona's Legislature
Arizona's 2018 Senate race takes a dramatic turn after Sen. Jeff Flake announced Tuesday that he will not seek re-election in 2018. Former state lawmaker Kelli Ward and President Trump react to Flake's announcement. State Rep. Michelle Ugenti-Rita says she was sexually harassed by male colleagues in Arizona's Legislature and faces retaliation after reporting her experience.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, the governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen and national political reporter Dan Nowicki @dannowicki.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Oct 17, 2017
Ducey’s raises, Russian voter hack remains unclear, Bannon in Arizona and Gosar’s family feud
Gov. Doug Ducey awards his inner circle hefty pay increases while giving Arizona teachers less than a 1 percent raise. Steve Bannon visits Scottsdale and gives his full support to Kelli Ward in Arizona’s 2018 Senate race against Sen. Jeff Flake. President Donald Trump has yet to give Ward his endorsement and Flake disregards polls. A family feud erupts between Rep. Paul Gosar and his brother, David Gosar, after Paul made claims in a Vice News interview that the liberal activist George Soros helped the Nazis. And Arizona Secretary of State Michele Reagan says the Department of Homeland Security cannot confirm if Arizona voters were hacked by Russia in the 2016 election.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, the governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, investigative reporter Craig Harris @ch…
Oct 11, 2017
Paul Gosar’s take on Charlottesville, Arizona’s school letter grades, water shortages and elections
Arizona’s Congressman Paul Gosar suggested in a Vice News interview that the violent, white supremacist rally in Charlottesville was planned by “an Obama sympathizer,” and said that George Soros, a liberal activist, turned Jews over to the Nazis. The dominoes are falling in Congressional District 9 after Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton announced his campaign to run for Congress. Arizona schools are upset by the letter grades issued by the Arizona Department of Education and the Board of Education. And the Department of Water Resources delayed a large home development project in Casa Grande because of a Pinal County’s lack of groundwater supply.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, the governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen, Phoenix city hall reporter Jessica Boehm @jboehm_NEWS, educatio…
Oct 2, 2017
Kyrsten Sinema joins Arizona's Senate race, Pence visits Phoenix and DCS faces a lawsuit
Arizona’s 2018 Senate race just got interesting with U.S. Rep. Kyrsten Sinema joining the run, finally ending months of speculation. She will run against Sen. Jeff Flake and several others, including Deedra Abboud. The Department of Child Safety also faces a class action lawsuit, which was filed 2 years ago, and says that the Arizona Foster Care System is failing children. The state of Arizona has removed about 5,500 kids within the last reporting period and many wonder how long until effective changes are made. Vice President Mike Pence also visited Phoenix this week and met with Gov. Doug Ducey over Arnold Palmers and chips to discuss Republican’s tax reform plans.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, state and government reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl, and congressional reporter Ron J. Hansen @ronaldjhansen.
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more a…
Sep 24, 2017
Was Arizona hacked by Russia? Voter fraud and the Trump, Sen. John McCain feud continues
Sen. John McCain does not support the Graham-Cassidy health care bill, another failed Republican attempt to repeal and replace “Obamacare.” President Donald Trump lashed out in a series of tweets over the weekend and said, “Without McCain, we’d already have the heath care.” After many months, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security says that Russia tried to hack Arizona’s voter registration during the 2016 election. But officials are unsure if the new information was a hack previously reported or if it’s a new attack.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, legislative reporter Alia Rau @aliarau, national political reporter Dan Nowicki @dannowicki and legislative reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner.
This episode was edited by Johanna Huckeba @jojo_huck and Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Sep 20, 2017
Special investigation: Landmark new report on the U.S.-Mexico border, "The Wall"
“Build the Wall.” Three words energized a campaign. But could it be done? What would it cost? What would it accomplish? Our search for answers became this, a landmark new report, “The Wall” with special guest Nicole Carroll, top editor of The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com.
Find "The Wall: Reporting on the Border" on Apple Podcasts at http://apple.co/2f00BmW or wherever you find podcasts. Find the entire project at https://www.usatoday.com/border-wall/.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, vice president and top editor Nicole Carroll @nicole_carroll, national political reporter Dan Nowicki @dannowicki, congressional reporter Ron Hansen @ronaldjhansen, legislative and government reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl
This episode was edited by Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley.
Sep 13, 2017
Arizona hosts historic convention on changes to the U.S. Constitution
Representatives from 22 states gathered at the Arizona Capitol for the convening of America's first national convention of states in more than 150 years. Meanwhile, the Arizona Attorney General's Office is suing the Arizona Board of Regents for "dramatically and unconstitutionally" increasing the price of in-state tuition at the state's three universities.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, legislative reporter Alia Rau @aliarau, governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, and national political reporter Dan Nowicki @dannowicki.
This episode was edited by Johanna Huckeba @jojo_huck and Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Sep 6, 2017
Will Congress help the 28,000 Arizonans with DACA?
It's official: Voters will decide whether Arizona moves forward with or rejects a massive expansion of the state's school-voucher program. DACA protects about 28,000 Arizonans – how will its end change their lives? Plus, a rundown of the long list of things Arizona's representatives in Congress have to do this session.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, national political reporter Dan Nowicki @dannowicki and congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen @ronaldjhansen.
This episode was edited by Johanna Huckeba @jojo_huck and Hayley Sanchez @heyyhayhayley. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Aug 30, 2017
How Arpaio's pardon and DACA's end could change Arizona forever
After being pardoned by President Donald Trump, what are the chances former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio will get back into politics? Could a bill pass that would ban covering your face during a protest?
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, legislative reporter Alia Rau @aliarau, governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, and national political reporter Dan Nowicki @dannowicki.
This episode was edited by Johanna Huckeba @jojo_huck. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Aug 24, 2017
Special coverage: How Trump's rally in Phoenix is impacting Arizona politics
President Donald Trump took shots at Sens. John McCain and Jeff Flake, Arizona Republicans who have repeatedly crossed him, without mentioning their names at his Tuesday rally. Meanwhile, Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey and controversial former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio were absent.
In other news, the group seeking to refer the state's new school-voucher expansion law to the ballot cleared an important hurdle, and two Democrats heat up their race for governor.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, national political reporter Dan Nowicki @dannowicki and congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen @ronaldjhansen.
This episode was edited by Johanna Huckeba @jojo_huck. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Aug 16, 2017
President Trump schedules rally in Arizona while weighing Arpaio pardon
The team watches for Rep. Kyrsten Sinema to announce a likely run for the U.S. Senate seat held by Jeff Flake. U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., calls President Trump a 'racist' and a 'coward' after his comments on Charlottesville. Investigations into reports of child neglect have dropped, even though calls to Arizona's child-abuse hotline hold steady. Save Our Schools Arizona slams the vetting process for a school-voucher referendum.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, investigative reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl, and congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen @ronaldjhansen.
This episode was edited by Hannah Gaber @HannahSGS. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Aug 4, 2017
Sen. Jeff Flake takes aim at fellow Republicans in new book
Sen. Jeff Flake is the author of a new book, a defense of Goldwater- and Reagan-style conservatism and a critique of his own Republican Party in the era of President Donald Trump. Gov. Doug Ducey plays a strong role in Sen. John McCain's healthcare vote. U.S. Rep. Martha McSally helps craft a bipartisan plan for the nation's insurance system. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, national political reporter Dan Nowicki @dannowicki, and congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen @ronaldjhansen.
This episode was edited by Kaila White @kailawhite.
Jul 26, 2017
Sen. John McCain's dramatic return for a healthcare vote
- Sen. John McCain returned to Washington a week after disclosing his brain cancer diagnosis to speak on the Senate floor about "Obamacare" repeal legislation.
- About 1,400 conservatives from across the country gathered in Denver for a conference best-known for producing ready-to-introduce “model” legislation crafted with input from corporate America.
- The Arizona attorney general cleared a former House Speaker after an investigation into allegations he misused state resources.
- Mesa City Councilman Ryan Winkle pleaded guilty to one count of extreme DUI for which his BAC level nearly three times the legal limit.
Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and Arizona State Capitol reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl, governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen @ronaldjhansen, and Mesa and Gilbert reporter Jessica Boehm @jboehm_NEWS.
This episode was edited by Hanna…
Jul 18, 2017
U.S. Rep. Martha McSally spends big to stay in office
The group behind an effort to repeal Arizona's school-voucher expansion is hiring paid circulators as part of a final push to qualify for the ballot; U.S. Rep. McSally spends big to stay in office; Sen. John McCain's unresolved health scare; former Arizona House Speaker David Gowan will not be prosecuted by the Arizona Attorney General.
Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, investigative reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl, governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen @ronaldjhansen, and national political reporter Dan Nowicki @dannowicki.
This episode was edited by Hannah Gaber @HannahSGS.
Jul 12, 2017
Sen. Jeff Flake talks Trumpcare, while group fights Arizona school-voucher law
Sen. Jeff Flake, under intense pressure to oppose the Senate Republican health-care bill, said he actually supports the more conservative "Consumer Freedom Option" proposed by Sen. Ted Cruz. Meanwhile, a group opposed to a major private school voucher expansion bill signed by Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey says it is on track to collect enough signatures to place the law on hold. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, national political reporter Dan Nowicki @dannowicki, and congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen @ronaldjhansen.
This episode was edited by Jojo Huckeba @Jojo_Huck.
Jul 7, 2017
Arizona to oppose handing over voter information to Trump commission
Arizona Secretary of State Michele Reagan said she is rejecting the Trump administration's request for extensive voter information. Arizona’s Republican members of Congress have rarely voted against Trump in the first six months of the year. The director of Arizona's child-welfare system asked families to "expand their horizons" and "do more," leaving some foster parents perplexed and enraged. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, Arizona State Capitol reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl, governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, and congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen @ronaldjhansen.
This episode was edited by Jojo Huckeba @Jojo_Huck.
Jun 21, 2017
Special investigation: Many Arizona schools hire underqualified, inexperienced teachers
A database built by The Arizona Republic shows that 22 percent of 46,000 public school teachers in Arizona during the 2016-17 term were either not qualified to teach or had less than two years of classroom experience. Education reporter Ricardo Cano discusses his findings with The Republic's political team.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, education reporter Ricardo Cano @Ricardo_Cano1, governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen @ronaldjhansen.
This episode was edited by Kaila White @kailawhite,
Jun 14, 2017
An Arizona congresswoman's secret tape and the debate over dirty money
A secret tape predicts trouble for Republican lawmakers, cash from indicted figures divides state officials, and a new survey says children in Arizona rank near the bottom in well-being, nationally. Meanwhile, Gov. Doug Ducey makes moves to protect Arizona's relationship with its top trading partner, Mexico.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, Arizona State Capitol reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl, governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, and congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen @ronaldjhansen.
This episode was edited by Hannah Gaber @HannahSGS.
Jun 7, 2017
A Tucson Democrat begins the race to become Arizona’s governor
State Sen. Steve Farley is jumping into the race for governor, hoping to unseat Republican Gov. Doug Ducey. A service at the Arizona Secretary of State's Office intended to make it easier for local candidates to get their names on the ballot has missed its intended launch date — and shut off access for legislative and statewide hopefuls. As for Washington, D.C., Ducey will be at the White House this week to meet with President Trump to talk infrastructure spending. Find more at politics.azcentral.com.
Follow the team on Twitter:
Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, Arizona State Capitol reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl, governor’s office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett, and congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen @ronaldjhansen.
This episode was edited by Hannah Gaber @HannahSGS.
May 31, 2017
Corruption scandal rocks Arizona politics, and Jeff Flake seeks new war authorization
A corruption case snares lobbyist Jim Norton, who is at the center of Arizona power politics. Two Arizona Republican lawmakers hire private attorneys (using taxpayers' money along the way.) U.S. Sen. Jeff Flake wants a new authorization of the use of military force, or AUMF. Find more at politics.azcentral.com. Follow the team on Twitter: Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, national political reporter Dan Nowicki @dannowicki, Arizona State Capitol reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl, and governor’s Office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett. This episode was edited by Hannah Gaber @HannahSGS.
May 20, 2017
McCain-Trump feud, Gov. Ducey's veto pen and drama in Phoenix City Hall
The Arizona Attorney General’s Office's investigates Phoenix Councilman Michael Nowakowski. Sen. John McCain blasts President Donald Trump – again. Gov. Doug Ducey signs a final 27 bills into law and vetoes six, including industrial hemp production. Find more at politics.azcentral.com. Follow the team on Twitter: Host and politics editor Michael Squires @mgsquires, national political reporter Dan Nowicki @dannowicki, Phoenix City Hall reporter Dustin Gardiner @dustingardiner, Arizona State Capitol reporter Mary Jo Pitzl @maryjpitzl, congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen @ronaldjhansen, and governor’s Office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez @yvonnewingett. This episode was edited by Hannah Gaber @HannahSGS.
May 17, 2017
Looking back on Arizona's 2016-2017 legislative session, and unfinished business
Arizona State Capitol reporter Mary Jo Pitzl, congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen, Governor’s Office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez, national political reporter Dan Nowicki and politics editor Michael Squires look back at the legislative session and all it did – and didn’t – accomplish, as well as the Arizona’s delegation’s headaches from having to deal with the Trump administration. Find more coverage at politics.azcentral.com.
This episode was edited by Kaila White @kailawhite.
May 6, 2017
Who won the state budget war, and highlights from the legislative session
As the end of the legislative session approaches, Arizona State Capitol reporter Mary Jo Pitzl, congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen, Governor’s Office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and politics editor Michael Squires talk about the finalized Arizona state budget, as well as the strangest bills and highlights from this legislative session. Find more coverage at politics.azcentral.com.
This episode was edited by Kaila White @kailawhite.
Apr 28, 2017
Teachers protesting, a budget afoot and what's up with Stanton?
Phoenix City Hall reporter Dustin Gardiner, Arizona State Capitol reporter Mary Jo Pitzl, congressional delegation reporter Ron Hansen, Governor’s Office and state politics reporter Yvonne Wingett Sanchez and politics editor Michael Squires talk about the Arizona state budget, raises for teachers, welfare, Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton's possible run for a higher office, and more. Find more coverage at politics.azcentral.com.
This episode was edited by Kaila White @kailawhite.
Apr 23, 2017
Trailer: Welcome to The Gaggle!
The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com's politics editor Michael Squires hosts an informal and informational chat with his team of reporters about politics in Arizona and beyond in this weekly podcast. Follow Michael on Twitter at @mgsquires. This episode was edited by Kaila White @kailawhite.