Democratic leadership weighs in on State of the State

Democratic leadership in the Arizona State Legislature responded to Governor Katie Hobbs’ State of the State address, which took place on Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, and the plans moving forward.

The annual speech to the state legislature outlines the Governor’s priorities for the year. The State of the State speech kicks off the legislative session.

Joining us to discuss were Rep. Oscar De Los Santos (D) of District 11 and Sen. Priya Sundareshan (D) of District 18.

Both representatives emphasized their goal of making Arizona a more affordable state, they specifically mentioned housing and child care. Another area they are focusing on improving is public education which Sen. Sundareshan said they know they “have failed to do for many decades.”

“We want a clean continuation of Prop 123, it’s a vital piece of education funding, without it, we don’t have any confidence that Republicans will adequately fund the public education system,” Sen. Sundareshan said.

Sen. De Los Santos said Arizona ranks “dead last” in the nation for public education funding. Sen. Sundareshan said she hopes that Arizona budgets more responsibly on public education.

Another topic discussed between the senators was Gov. Hobbs’ view and action on immigration. Sen. Sundareshan said that a large portion of “havoc” in the state are the “flow of drugs.” She also said that Gov. Hobbs’ action of providing resources to the border to lower the entrance of drugs has been significant.

“Voters aren’t looking for a very severe, very extreme crackdown on immigrant communities who attribute so much to our economy, I think what they’re looking for is humane policies,” Sen. Sundareshan said.

Sen. De Los Santos said Arizona voters are independent-minded voters. He also said he would like people to “work together, be bi-partisan and find solutions.”