Immigration Policy

Immigration is a federal failure that hits home here in LD 19. For decades, Washington politicians from both parties have refused to fix a broken system because the chaos is useful for their campaigns. The result? Human trafficking, a vibrant drug trade, and crisis at the border. We're paying the price for their inaction.

I don't blame people fleeing violence or seeking a better life. I blame the leaders who let this happen. The reality is that so long as there's a black market demand for drugs and exploited labor, and no legal path for the workers our economy needs, the problem will continue.

I can't change federal law or tell them how to do their jobs, but I will have a vote on the issues that fuel this crisis right here in Arizona. I will fight for:

• Expanding access to medical care to prevent addiction and investing in effective recovery treatment to destroy the demand for illegal drugs.

• Cracking down with severe penalties on the chief employers of trafficked labor.

• Protecting and supporting victims of trafficking so they will help bring their traffickers to justice.

• Ensuring those who lawfully come here can integrate successfully into our communities.

We can either keep playing political games, or we can get serious about solving the root causes that Washington ignores. I choose solutions. For far too long the state resources of Arizona have been used to help cover for the failed policies of the federal government diverting our officers from their duties and needlessly stressing our systems. These answers will pay us back dividends of less crime, more legitimate job opportunities, and healthier communities.

I want better for us. I want us to have accountable public servants, the right to live in peace with our neighbors, and the healing benefits of a restored and vibrant community.