Rep David Schweikert (R-AZ) has sharply criticized the state's current administration for worsening cost-of-living problems, claiming that inadequate planning has harmed working families.
Discussing the state's economic difficulties, Schweikert recalled Arizona's stronger past, explaining the state delivered "prosperity in many ways for a decade, plus a golden gem of wages, growth, prosperity, affordability, you could raise your kids and they could move off and have a home," he explained. "Almost none of those things are true today."
The congressman directly blamed the gubernatorial opponent, Governor Katie Hobbs (D-AZ), administration, writing that "Arizona didn't become unaffordable by accident." He added: "A governor that ignored reality, broke basic planning, and shrugged at the consequences made it this way—and families are paying for it."
Economic Status
Schweikert stressed Arizona must restore its former successful strategies. "We have to get back in that rhythm of bringing in dynamic, well-paying jobs, businesses that actually provide opportunity for the next generation," he continued.
He also emphasized concerns about managing essential resources, noting "I just don't see the strategic planning that was our Hallmark in the past" regarding water and electricity.
Current economic statistics appear to validate Schweikert's worries. Arizona's employment expanded by merely 0.3% through August, falling short of the 1.1% national figure. Income growth within the state had risen to only 4.5%, below the country's 5.1% average.
Additionally, Phoenix families spend roughly 44% of their income on housing, a slight improvement from the previous year. New home construction has also declined sharply, with building authorizations dropping by more than 13% across the state.
Schweikert argues these improvements don't offset Arizona's broader struggles, which he attributes to poor governance that he doesn’t see fit for the state’s future.
As Schweikert campaigns for governor, he's pledging to make strategic economic planning central to his platform, promising to restore the approaches that once made Arizona affordable for working families.
