Week in Review: For the Week of March 16, 2025

High Profile, Controversial Rallies Hit Arizona

Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez held a rally at Arizona State University in Tempe, criticizing figures like former President Donald Trump and Elon Musk for policies they argue harm the working and middle classes. Sanders emphasized resisting billionaire influence, while Ocasio-Cortez called for a leadership change and greater Democratic action. The event is part of Sanders’ “Stop Oligarchy” tour, which aims to mobilize opposition against Trump’s agenda.

Republicans, Dems Hold ‘Invite-Only’ Town Halls Stirring Controversy

Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego hosted a series of invitation-only style rallies across the valley. Meanwhile, Congressman Andy Biggs and Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen faced harsh criticism from media outlets for a Republican Party event, with little mention of the Democrats doing the same.

Another State Agency Serving Children Set to Go Bankrupt

Arizona House Speaker Steve Montenegro exposed what he described as another financial crisis created by Governor Katie Hobbs. In a news conference, Montenegro reported that just “a few days ago,” he was notified via a routine email that the Department of Child Safety’s Congregate Care program was set to go bankrupt.

Arizona Legislature Considers MAHA-Inspired Bills

Lawmakers are advancing bills to ban ultra-processed foods in schools and restrict the use of food stamps for purchasing soda, aligning with the “Make America Healthy Again” movement. High-profile leaders held a round table on Wednesday, hosted by Senator Majority Leader Shamp and House Rep Biasiucci. You can view a video of the round table here.

Arizona Mourns Representative Raul Grijalva 

The longtime leader spent over 50 years in public service. His legacy lives on through his unwavering commitment to social justice, education, and protecting Arizona’s public lands. The Arizona Globe honors his life and impact with a respectful tribute to his decades of dedication.

CD7 Primary Dates are Set: Are Fontes and Adelita Grijalva In the Race?

Thirteen individuals have filed an intent to run for CD7 following Grijalva’s death. His daughter, Board of Supervisor Adelita Grijalva, has stated that she will announce her intentions after her father’s services. Secretary of State Adrian Fontes has indicated that he will file a Statement of Intent but has yet to finalize his decision.

Primavera Charter School in Crisis  After Hobbs’ Board Revokes Charter

Primavera Charter School, one of Arizona’s largest charter schools, will close without intervention. The closure comes amid scrutiny over academic performance and concerns about management practices. Thousands of students now face the challenge of transitioning to new schools before the next academic year. The school hired a former Trump attorney.