Rep. Walt Blackman’s (R-7) “Stolen Valor” legislation has evolved into a controversial focal point in Arizona politics, not for its content, but because of the unexpected political alliances it fostered. The bill, which aims to criminalize impersonating a U.S. armed forces veteran or falsely claiming military service or honors for financial or political gain, holds widespread conceptual support. However, despite unanimous approval in the Arizona House, the bill encountered obstacles in the Senate. Senator Wendy Rogers (R-LD7), an Air Force veteran and chair of the Senate Judiciary and Elections Committee, opted to hold off on hearing the bill, seeking language changes before a final vote.

Part of the dustup stems from a disagreement over communications. Sen. Rogers insists that she contacted Rep. Blackman about her reservations over the bill’s language, which Blackman denies. Despite Blackman’s denial, Rogers stands by her statement, which some observers state may be as much the issue as the bill’s status. It’s become such a flashpoint that even the bill’s honoree, MSgt. Jack Dona reached out to the Globe expressing concerns that the communication clash was not addressed in our earlier reporting.

The Arizona Globe previously reported that this prompted Senate President Warren Peteresen (R-14) to clarify his stance. Speaking to the Globe, he stated, “I’m optimistic we’ll reach a resolution. I’m working to bring everyone together to craft an amendment.” It’s still unclear which faction Petersen will side with.

The fallout from Rogers’ decision to hold up the Stolen Valor bill has resulted in the formation of unlikely factions among Republicans. This became evident after a live X-Space discussion. Gubernatorial candidates Karrin Taylor Robson (R) and Rodney Glassman (R) appeared alongside Blackman on X. Glassman is challenging Petersen in the Republican primary for the right to challenge Attorney General Kris Mayes (D) in 2026.

During the online chat, Blackman expressed his support for both Robson and Glassman. Glassman gave brief remarks, while Robson, although present, did not. Robson, considered by many as an Arizona political heavyweight, is facing heat for her activities as a paid lobbyist. She is running against Freedom Caucus member, U.S. Representative Andy Biggs (R-CD5), for the right to challenge a weakened Governor Katie Hobbs (D). Robson has stated that then-president-elect Donald Trump endorsed her based on a casual statement of potential support Trump made in December 2024, before Biggs jumped in the race. You can listen to a recording of the X-Space discussion here.