The State 48 News 🎙️

ICYMI: Garret Lewis with The Afternoon Addiction featured our original article on his radio show. If you didn’t read it, Karrin Taylor Robson: APS Lobbyist Turned Conservative Candidate is a must-read.

State 48 News was the first to really dive into the question: Can Robson move past her APS ties and stand up for We the People? She is a very recent former lobbyist for progressive APS, which is still connected to DEI and ESG initiatives.

On March 20, we uncovered Robson's lobbying activities, and then on March 27, she updated her status and officially stepped away from APS.

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We also disclosed that Robson previously lobbied for Chicanos Por La Causa Action. An extreme far-left organiztion who opposes Trump.

Senator Jake Hoffman (R) didn’t hold back, calling out the liberal group and tagging POTUS in his post. The Freedom Caucus member has been loudly backing U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs for governor—pushing hard for a full endorsement. Think Abe and Blake in CD8—same energy. But in many conservative circles, there’s a clear distinction between “support” and “endorse”—and the difference isn’t lost on anyone paying attention.

In classic Hoffman fashion, his post was sharply aimed to grab President Trump’s attention.

Robson and her brother/ business partner Andy Kunasek also lobbied for Resolution Cooper until March 25, 2025. It is unknown why the lobbying efforts were terminated, if State 48 News receives a reply from Robson or Resolution Cooper we will update the story.

Resolution Copper is a big mining project in Superior, Arizona, about an hour east of Phoenix. Two large companies, Rio Tinto and BHP, teamed up to run it.

The goal? To dig up a huge amount of copper from deep underground. If the mine gets fully approved and built, it could provide up to 25% of all the copper the U.S. needs according to their website.

But there’s been a lot of controversy and delay. Native American groups claim the mine would destroy sacred land called Oak Flat. Because of that, the project has been tied up in legal battles and delays.

Again, we are unsure what severed the connection and will update if we get a response.

Senator Jake Hoffman introduced a strike-everything bill to provide a cooling off period between lobbyists and politicians. If passed, it would prevent Robson from taking office in 2026. You can read more about that here.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thestate48news.com/subscribe

State 48 News is proud to present our one-on-one interview with Rep. Joseph Chaplik, a conservative Republican representing Arizona’s District 3.

Chaplik brings over 25 years of executive leadership, having worked with Fortune 500 telecommunications companies and later founding his own firm, Joseph Bernard Investment Real Estate, which specializes in multi-family investments and has handled over $1 billion in sales. With offices in Arizona, Oregon, and Washington, his business success laid the groundwork for his transition into public service. In 2019, Chaplik entered politics, aiming to make a lasting impact on his community and the state. He resides in Scottsdale with his wife and two children.

In This Episode of Jen & Friends for State 48 News:

VIDEO TIME CODES

:00 Intro

:26 About State 48 News

:42 Chaplik’s support of independent journalism

1:10 About Chaplik & how he got into politics

2:36 Chaplik’s start in Arizona

3:04 Getting involved in politics in 2020

3:53 Chaplik’s philosophy and the conservative scorecards

4:51 Politics & business

5:26 “A lot of business needs to be done” - Leadership

7:07 Politics & disagreements

7:56 Attempt to change the Arizona constitution

8:02 Doesn’t think state should be involved in Axon deal

8:53 Local control

9:45 How the Axon zoning deal ended up at the state level

10:13 Scottsdale referendum signatures

11:18 How Chaplik got involved in zoning legislation

12:05 March 3rd and Fox Business News

12:30 Axon’s Josh Isner on Fox Business News

13:22 Chaplik’s reaction

13:59 Chaplik’s team starts working on a statement

14:05 Chaplik discusses what happened when Axon’s Rick Smith approaches him at Capitol

14:29 Threats made

14:50 Chaplik’s call to security

15:19 Chaplik’s reaction to watching Axon statements on Fox Business News

16:01 Chaplik’s response on March 4th - Fox Business News

16:49 How Chaplik’s conversation ended with Rick Smith on March 3rd

18:11 Axon in Scottsdale 5 years ago

18:27 Scottsdale election

19:06 Changing the constitution is the “wrong thing to do”

19:27 Petersen response on the legislation

19:49 HB 2925

20:05 How to put language on another bill - “striker” bill

20:38 Changing zoning is “bad for everybody”

21:15 Sen. Carroll’s striker bill - Wednesday 8:30am

22:42 Divided Republicans

25:12 What might be good for one district might not be good for another district

26:23 “Scottsdale Problem”

26:43 Rogue city councils & development

27:22 90% of voters don’t want more large projects in Scottsdale

28:53 Consequences of Axon leaving

30:00 Axon plan for development

31:13 No guarantee Axon is sticking around

32:38 15-minute city

34:34 Is there a place for Axon in Scottsdale

36:28 What happens with the zoning legislation?

38:51 Conduct of guests in the Capitol

40:34 Waymo

42:42 DOGE

43:10 How to cut State Income Tax

44:15 Cutting waste

45:05 Missed opportunity to build a new state capitol

46:26 Arizona deficit

47:44 Executive branch has explaining to do

48:35 What’s next for Arizona?

48:45 Andy Biggs

49:29 Chaplik’s future

50:16 Wish for more people to get involved in politics

51:27 Business & leadership

51:55 Arizona and money management

53:01 Good years and bad years

53:48 Chaplik and the pandemic

58:12 Angry people and death threats

58:40 Wrap

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thestate48news.com/subscribe

At the launch luncheon for the newly established Buckeye Union High School District Education Foundation, State 48 News had an exclusive one-on-one interview with Dr. Steve Bebee, Superintendent of BUHSD, to discuss a slate of proposed bills in the Arizona Legislature that could have lasting impacts on local schools.

From taxpayer-funded travel and board retreats to higher math opportunities for graduation, Dr. Bebee offered his perspective on legislation shaping the future of education.

He also addresses a failed attempt to require a 60% supermajority for school bonds and a bill mandating districts provide video recordings of school board meetings—something BUHSD does not currently do.

In this candid conversation with State 48 News’ Jennifer Barber, Dr. Bebee weighs in on what these policies mean for students, educators, and taxpayers.

THE MORE YOU KNOW.

The Buckeye Union High School District Education Foundation, a nonprofit raising scholarship funds, has secured $25,000 to support graduates pursuing higher education. Aligned with BUHSD’s mission, it helps ensure students receive a safe, engaging education that prepares them for future success.

The Education Foundation is hosting a Bowling Fundraiser on April 8th. Find out more here.

To find out more about our series of reports on taxpayer-funded travel in Arizona schools, please visit our Senior Investigative Journalist Jennifer Barber’s previous Substack here.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thestate48news.com/subscribe

The Buckeye Union High School District hosted a launch luncheon today at West-MEC Southwest Campus for its Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising scholarship funds for students. The foundation has already secured $25,000 to support students pursuing higher education after graduation.

Aligned with BUHSD’s mission, the foundation aims to provide students with a safe, engaging, and relevant educational experience, ensuring they graduate ready to achieve their postsecondary goals. The district remains committed to essential literacies, prioritized learning, and career pathways, reinforcing its vision to prepare students for a future of success.

Buckeye Union High School District (BUHSD) offers 21 Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, giving students hands-on experience in fields like engineering, medical assisting, robotics, law enforcement, and film & TV production. These programs help students discover their purpose, passion, and career pathways while preparing them for college and the workforce. Additionally, BUHSD students have the opportunity to take advanced CTE courses at West-MEC, expanding their skills and career prospects.

Mayor Orsborn shares his insights on what a 'future-ready workforce' looks like in one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.

Both Buckeye and Goodyear mayors attended today’s event, showing their support for the district and its new Education Foundation. State 48 News had the opportunity to speak with both leaders, and today, we’re sharing our conversation with Buckeye Mayor Eric Orsborn.

JEN’S TWO CENTS.

While mainstream media focuses on school closures due to a declining birth rate, the West Valley is experiencing the opposite trend.

In a conversation with the Buckeye Union High School District superintendent, it’s clear that current schools are at or over capacity, and the failure of the last bond measure is now putting pressure on the district to secure funding for a fourth high school.

The Agua Fria Union High School District is set to open its sixth high school, Goodyear High School, on a 55-acre campus at the northwest corner of Cotton Lane and Van Buren in Goodyear. Phase one is scheduled to launch in Fall 2025, welcoming an initial class of 400 freshmen.

State 48 News will continue covering this and other critical stories shaping Arizona’s education future. Stay informed—set your alerts and subscribe to our newsletter!

The Buckeye Union High School District Education Foundation is hosting a Bowling Fundraiser on April 8th. Find out more here.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thestate48news.com/subscribe

“Jen & Friends” Podcast Guest: Jay Beeber

Executive Director of Policy for the National Motorists Association

They call it the dilemma zone for a reason—it's that split-second moment when you're barreling toward a yellow light and suddenly must decide: slam on the brakes or hit the gas. And guess what? Your lawmakers are cashing in on your little lapse of perfection.

Here in Arizona, it’s a game of legislative roulette with red-light cameras. Three bills are in the ring: one allows the ramping up of photo radar, another aims to banish them altogether, and the last leaves the decision up to you… the voters.

State 48 News Senior Investigative Journalist Jennifer Barber is following the progression of these three proposals in the Arizona legislature. To dig into how yellow lights can be rigged to cash in on your split-second hesitation, she roped in photo radar whiz Jay Beeber of the National Motorists Association for her "Jen & Friends" podcast.

What Can We Do About It?

Over the years, the people have made it clear. Overwhelmingly, they don’t want photo radar. Even Sen. Payne who’s co-sponsoring the bill to expand it now says he’s a “NO” on photo radar. (It’s why we suspect his bill is losing steam.) As Beeber puts it, any lawmaker supporting a ban (despite knowing the governor's veto is inevitable) should also back the resolution putting the decision squarely in the hands of the voters. Beeber’s point? Absolutely spot on.

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT.

Jay Beeber is extending an invitation to any Arizona lawmaker ready to engage in a debate over photo radar. If a legislator steps up, State 48 News is poised to host what promises to be a friendly, lively discussion. Please contact us with your interest.

THE MORE YOU KNOW.

PHOTO RADAR: The 2 bills and 1 resolution:

* SCR1002, a resolution, would go to the 2026 ballot for voters to decide. (Rogers)

* SB1019 has similar language to SCR1002. If it passes in the House, it will be sent to Governor Hobbs for signature... or most likely a veto. (Rogers)

* SB1146 expands photo radar and does not appear to have widespread support. If it passes, it goes to Governor Hobbs for possible signature. (Carroll, Payne)

Find out more about red-light cameras here.

Contact your legislators. Find your representative here.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thestate48news.com/subscribe

Our State 48 News’ Senior Investigative Journalist Jen Barber has been digging into red-light cameras, license plate readers, and AI-driven mass surveillance for more than a year.

In this episode of “Jen and Friends” for State 48 News, Barber talks with a variety of state lawmakers and activists, and shares the pros and cons of traffic photo enforcement from the ongoing discussions at the capitol.

State 48 News has an open mic for any Arizona legislator who would like to talk with us about photo radar and AI-driven mass surveillance. Please contact us to set up an interview.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thestate48news.com/subscribe

From student privacy protections to increased travel transparency for school boards, a slate of bills is moving closer to becoming law.

State 48 News breaks down everything debated in the Arizona House of Representatives today—fast and to the point.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thestate48news.com/subscribe