According to unofficial results from Tuesday’s election, Democrats will take control of both chambers of the Arizona legislature for the first time since 1966. Katie Hobbs was reelected governor for a second term.
As of Thursday morning, Democrats were leading in 20 of 30 state Senate districts and 37 of 60 districts for the state House of Representatives, KTAR reported. Votes are still being counted, and the results are not yet official. The Associated Press has already called the state Senate for Democrats.
The last time Democrats controlled both chambers was in 1966. That year, Arizona changed its voting rules, replacing a county-based system with one based on population. With Gov. Hobbs’ reelection, the party gains a so-called trifecta, meaning control of both chambers and the governor’s office.
According to KJZZ, Democratic supporters are talking about a mandate to carry out their agenda. Oscar De Los Santos, the current House Democratic leader, said new proposals are on the table. The party has cited, among other things, an overhaul of the state’s school voucher program and more financial support for residents struggling with the cost of living.
Charlene Fernandez, chair of the state Democratic Party, told KTAR she does not believe the new majority will “go crazy.” In her view, lawmakers are disciplined and will listen to what residents expect.
Republicans had warned against a shift in the balance of power. Senate President Warren Petersen said after the first results that Arizona “will be California in six months” if the GOP loses control. Cronkite News reports that leaders of both parties are promising action on the cost of living, education and water.
The new legislature will take office in January. Until then, the results could still change as the remaining votes are counted.
Source: KJZZ
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