Propositions Yield Mixed Election Results

Eight statewide propositions were on Tuesday’s ballot, all referred by the Republican-controlled Legislature.

The emerging results are decidedly mixed.

Proposition 141, a transportation-tax constitutional amendment, was narrowly trailing in the overnight returns. Voters defeated Proposition 142, restricting diversity, equity and inclusion policies in government,  according to the Associated Press.

Proposition 144, the sweeping election-law overhaul that would impose new identification requirements on mail voting, appeared headed for defeat. Opponents declared victory Tuesday night. At the Democratic election-night party, Randy Keating, chairman of No on 144, said, “We are going to carry the day and we are going to defend vote by mail.”

Proposition 316, limiting municipal grocery taxes, passed. Bisbee Mayor Ken Budge, speaking to Arizona Mirror, warned that limiting future grocery-tax revenue could require cities to choose among staffing, fire equipment, street maintenance and library services: “We don’t fill as many potholes, we don’t keep the swimming pool open as long, we don’t buy new books in the library.”

Proposition 317, which would designate drug cartels as terrorist organizations under Arizona law and expand the responsibilities of the Arizona Department of Homeland Security, was leading approximately 55%–45% Wednesday morning.

Proposition 318, restricting transgender students’ access to school facilities and sports, has passed.

Proposition 319, restricting photo-radar enforcement, was also leading.

Proposition 320, requiring larger school districts to direct at least 60% of spending toward instruction, was trailing approximately 53%–47% early Wednesday.

Voters appear willing to support several conservative policy proposals while rejecting others, particularly the election-law changes and mandatory school-spending formula. Arizona remains undefeated when it comes to being a Purple state.