Grand Canyon Times

The Arizona Republican representatives have voiced their discontent over Governor Hobbs' apparent appropriation of credit for the passage of a tax rebate that redistributes money to taxpayers, an initiative she had previously opposed during budget negotiations. "The Family Tax Rebate plan was created by the AZ Freedom caucus", stated the party.

"I promised to make it easier for Arizonans to provide for their families and manage rising costs," said Governor Hobbs as reported by platform X. She further added, "This week, I’m pleased to make good on that promise by announcing qualifying Arizonans can apply for our one-time Arizona Families Tax Rebaby. These Family First Funds are a way to recognize your contributions to our thriving state, and I could not be more excited to put money back in your pocket."

In response to Hobbs' post on platform X, Arizona Rep. Justin Heap said, "Absolutely shameless," He emphasized that "The Family Tax Rebate was the work of Arizona Freedom Caucus whose members all chose to return their portion of the Budget Surplus to the People rather than spend it on pork projects." Heap highlighted the fact that every Democrat in the Az legislature voted 'No' and Hobbs contested every step of ensuring this rebate was excluded from the budget.

Adding more depth into this issue, Senator Jake Hoffman of Arizona, who is also chairman of the Arizona Freedom Caucus presented this tax rebate. On contrary grounds, Governor Hobbs protested against this rebate preferring a consistent tax rebate aimed at lower-income individuals. The Arizona Families Tax Rebate comprised of a $260 million one-off tax credit offering $250 for each child under 17 and $100 for dependents aged 17 or older. Regardless of these facts, The Governor's office circulated a statement titled "Governor Hobbs puts money back into Arizonans' pockets." Legislators had purposely included specific language in law drafts as reported by Arizona Capitol Times aiming at stopping the Democratic governor from claiming credit.

The State Freedom Caucus is a network of nationwide organizations affiliated with the House Freedom Caucus. These groups are founded on principles inscribed in the 10th amendment which states "Those powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people." The SFC stated that this caucus is committed to "help establish State Freedom Caucuses (SFC) and provide the high-level staff, strategy, and community conservatives need to take ground across the country." In Arizona, Hoffman holds the position of chair, and State Rep. Jacqueline Parker serves as vice-chair; both are Republican lawmakers.