According to Census Bureau data released
in March, Arizona continues to be among the fastest growing states
in America. In fact, the bureau reported that Maricopa County
ranked first nationally in population gains during the year ending
July 1, 2005. Pinal County was the seventh fastest growing county
in the nation on a percentage basis.
That rapid growth brings both new opportunities
and challenges. On the one hand, it leads to the creation of new
jobs and more sales for Arizona’s small businesses, and
enhances our state’s competitiveness in the national and
global economies. On the other hand, it calls for new and better
transportation infrastructure, conservation of precious water
resources to meet present and future needs, an enhanced criminal
justice system to deal with heavy caseloads as well as the influx
of illegal immigrants, and, of course, protection and preservation
of the treasured natural resources that make Arizona such a unique
place.
As your Senator, I’ve fought
for a variety of initiatives to address these and other challenges
that our burgeoning state faces. You’ll find information
about my work throughout the various sections of my website. You
can jump to selected information by following the links below
to find out, for example, about the enactment of the historic
Arizona Water Settlements Act. Or efforts to secure our border
and stem the tide of illegal immigration that is overburdening
Arizona communities. Or about our work to secure federal highway
money to improve Arizona’s roads and to fund important projects
to better the quality of life for Native Americans.
I also welcome your suggestions about
ways to improve our state, protect its environment, and ensure
that we prepare to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Click
here, to send me a message with your comments.
