Carbone says ‘Electioneering is a First Amendment Right’

The Arizona Globe recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Representative Michael Carbone (R-25) in his new leadership office at the Arizona House. As the newly elected Majority Leader for the 57th Legislature, Carbone has already started to make his mark in his new role.

Residing in the vibrant Verrado community of Buckeye, Arizona, Carbone is in the heart of one of the state’s most dynamic cities. Buckeye isn’t just making waves locally; it was recognized as the fastest-growing city in Arizona, ranking third in the entire United States according to Go Banking. Exciting times lay ahead for the West Valley and Great State 48, and Carbone is ready to lead the charge.

Representative Michael Carbone (R-25) enters this legislative session, riding the momentum of two significant housing bills passed with bipartisan support and signed into law by Governor Katie Hobbs. As reported by the Globe last year, “House Bills HB2720 and HB2721, sponsored by Rep. Michael Carbone (R-25), passed both houses with bipartisan support. HB2720, dubbed the ‘Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Bill,’ would allow single-family homes to add an accessory dwelling unit, such as a smaller additional home, to the lot. HB2721 loosens regulations that would make it easier to build ‘duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and townhomes’ in municipalities with populations of 75,000 or more.”

Carbone acknowledged that additional work remains to ensure the legislation has its intended impact. He told the Globe, “We will have to come back this session to strengthen the bill and extend protections to the counties.” He noted that this addresses a loophole some counties have sought to exploit, potentially undermining the broader goals of the housing reforms.

These measures and Carbone’s continued efforts “to put Arizonans first” highlight his commitment to addressing Arizona’s housing challenges and expanding affordable options across the state.

The majority leader told the Globe that during this session, “I intend to assist veterans in Arizona with housing costs.” He stated, “I am honored to introduce a bill to help veterans.” Carbone recounted that two constituents, both disabled Marines, approached him last March with information on how various states support disabled veterans concerning homeownership and property taxes. They highlighted that Arizona ranks at the bottom in this regard despite hosting numerous military bases. Carbone explained, “Currently, 13 states will give veterans that are 100% disabled a 100% property tax exemption,” he seeks to follow that model for his bill during this session.

Carbone’s proposed legislation broadens the existing property tax exemption specifically for veterans with a 100% (total) disability rating. The Majority Leader’s bill seeks to enhance the financial well-being of these deserving individuals and aspires to “position Arizona amongst the leading states” in terms of offering substantial financial relief to its veterans. This legislation recognizes the significant sacrifices made by service members and their families. It aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens that totally disabled vets face through property tax exemptions.

On election day, the Globe observed Carbone at Goodyear City Hall, where he was campaigning for Michele Pena. Shortly after we left, Carbone stated that undercover detectives approached him and eventually instructed him to leave the premises because electioneering was not allowed there. He remarked, “I was within the 75-foot zone, obeying the law.”

Carbone said, “Maricopa County is making a significant error by not allowing electioneering. This is a First Amendment right.” He noted that he was not the only elected official who faced election-day restrictions. “They are preventing electioneering if you are in an entertainment or emergency district,” he explained. Carbone believes this represents an abuse of power that infringes on Constitutional rights.

To address this issue, Carbone will introduce a bill this session to eliminate the limitations on electioneering. The Globe requested a response from the City of Goodyear but did not receive one by the time of printing. (See letter below).

An Inside Look

Carbone relocated to Arizona nearly a decade ago, leaving Chicago behind in search of better opportunities for his family. Reflecting on the decision, Carbone shared, “The number one reason I moved here was so that my children would be able to obtain good jobs.” He added, “My four children would not have received these opportunities in Illinois.”

Carbone pointed to Illinois’ tax policies as a major factor driving businesses away. “The good corporations are gone there because of the tax policies,” he explained. In contrast, he praised Arizona’s thriving job market, saying, “Arizona has some of the best jobs in the nation.”

Beyond politics, Carbone and his wife, Calle, have built a life spanning nearly 30 years. They have been married for almost 25 of those years, and their partnership is one of enduring commitment.

When asked about his personal bucket list, Carbone revealed that taking a safari is a priority.

Letter to City of Goodyear

Dear Wynette,

I am writing to request clarification and an official statement regarding an incident that occurred on election day at Goodyear City Hall. Representative Michael Carbone has stated that he was approached by undercover detectives and asked to leave the premises while electioneering for a candidate, Michele Pena. According to Rep. Carbone, he was adhering to the law by staying outside the 75-foot boundary required by electioneering regulations. However, he was informed that electioneering was not allowed anywhere on the premises.

This raises several questions regarding the enforcement of election laws and the interpretation of the First Amendment rights of individuals engaging in electioneering activities. Rep. Carbone will issue a bill this session to address this issue.

Specifically, I would like clarification on the following:

1. What is the city’s policy regarding electioneering on public property during elections, and how is it enforced?

2. How does the city balance the enforcement of election regulations with the protection of First Amendment rights?

3. Is the city in favor of a bill that would allow electioneering at GCU?

I kindly request a statement from your office to clarify the city’s position and policies regarding electioneering activities at city-managed facilities. A timely response would be greatly appreciated to address public concerns and ensure that all parties are fully informed. I do have a hard deadline to publish my initial article by 10 am, but I would be happy to issue a follow-up story to incorporate any response you may provide. This article will be written for the Arizona Globe.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. Please contact me directly if you require additional details or clarification. I hope all is well at the City of Goodyear!

Christy Kelly