Thin Red (Party) Line: Infighting in the GOP over stolen valor bill

Thin Red (Party) Line: Infighting in the GOP over stolen valor bill

Author: The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com April 16, 2025 Duration: 19:15
Arizona's purple-state status has made residents accustomed to arguing at the state Capitol. But this time, the feud is between Trump-supporting Republicans and themselves. A bill that would criminalize false claims of military service has Rep. Walt Blackman (R-Snowflake) and fellow veteran Wendy Rogers (R-Flagstaff) in a heated personal drama is playing out in the Capitol. A claim of purposeful blocking, the owner of a Trump merchandise story and a near fight on the House floor are all happening over a stolen valor bill. This week on The Gaggle, legislative reporter Ray Stern joins hosts Ron Hansen and Mary Jo Pitzl to shine a light on the dramatic environment the bill is moving in and what it tells us about how certain laws get made. Email us! thegaggle@arizonarepublic.com Leave us a voicemail: 602-444-0804 Follow us on X, Instagram and Tik Tok. Guest: Ray Stern Hosts: Ron Hansen, Mary Jo Pitzl  Producer: Amanda Luberto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every Wednesday morning, The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast cuts through the noise to focus on a single issue shaping life in the state. Hosted by The Arizona Republic’s national political reporters Ron Hansen and Stephanie Murray, and produced by Amanda Luberto, this isn't just a recap of headlines. Instead, the conversation goes deeper with a guest-a politician, a journalist, or another key public figure-to unpack the real-world implications of a policy, a vote, or a debate. You’ll hear how decisions made at the capitol or in city halls ripple out to affect communities, schools, and wallets. The discussion is grounded in the expertise of the Republic’s newsroom, offering clarity and context that’s often missing from the daily churn. For anyone trying to understand the forces directing Arizona’s future, this weekly podcast provides an essential, focused look at the mechanics of state politics and government, making the complex both accessible and relevant. It’s a straightforward guide to what’s happening, who’s involved, and why it all matters for your day-to-day.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast
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