You are here: Home / Archives for Jennifer Wright

Jennifer Wright Endorses Eric Frederick for City Council

September 21, 2011 By 1 Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 21, 2011
CONTACT: Eric Frederick

Tuesday, former Phoenix mayoral candidate Jennifer Wright endorsed Eric Frederick for Phoenix City Council in District 1. Jennifer Wright ran a grassroots campaign that collected over 16,000 votes in a six-way race for Phoenix Mayor. Jennifer Wright’s endorsement adds to the growing number of endorsements Eric Frederick has received including former City Council Candidate Bill Barker.

“Mr. Frederick brings a wealth of business experience and a keen understanding of the business-like reforms necessary to restore prosperity in Phoenix,” Jennifer Wright wrote. She added, “A vote for Councilwoman Williams is a vote of confidence in the status quo… If we want to assure the defeat of the special interests that have long run this city, we must donate our time, talent, and money to help Mr. Frederick restore control of the district, and with it the City, to residents.”

Eric Frederick responded to the endorsements by saying, “I am honored to have Mrs. Wright’s full support. It is time for real leadership to be restored to City Hall, and I am pleased Mrs. Wright recognizes that I am that leader for District 1. My opponent has been entrenched in the city government for the past two decades, the same city government that got us to where we are today. It is time to change from politics as usual to forward leadership that leads for the constituents–not against them.”

Eric Frederick is in the runoff election against incumbent City Councilwoman Thelda Williams. The election will be held on November 8th along with the mayoral runoff against Wes Gullett and Greg Stanton.

###

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Endorsements, Press Release Tagged With: , , , , ,

Jennifer Wright Endorses Eric Frederick for Phoenix City Council, District 1

September 21, 2011 By Leave a Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 21, 2011
CONTACT: Jennifer Wright

PHOENIX, AZ (SEPT 21) – Last night at the Daisy Mountain Tea Party meeting, Jennifer Wright announced her support and endorsement of Eric Frederick in the run-off race in Phoenix City Council District 1 against incumbent Vice Mayor Thelda Williams.

“Mr. Frederick brings a wealth of business experience and a keen understanding of the business-like reforms necessary to restore prosperity in Phoenix,” declared Wright.

On the August 30 municipal election, Vice Mayor Thelma Williams failed to obtain more than 50% of the vote in District 1, which forced a run-off against challenger Eric Frederick. Frederick has been campaigning on the premise of working hard to bring jobs to Phoenix, making decisions based on fiscal responsibility, eliminating taxes and fees, and providing “Forward Leadership” to help Phoenix rise again to national prominence.

“By electing Frederick over an entrenched incumbent, the citizens of Phoenix can send a strong message to our city leaders that we will no longer tolerate business as usual,” Wright stated, adding, “A vote for Councilwoman Williams is a vote of confidence in the status quo – and with it increased taxes, increased water rates, and excessive union labor contracts.”

Wright continued by pointing out that Williams is heavily backed by union interests who have reportedly committed in excess of $150,000 to assure Williams’ reelection. According to Wright, “If we want to assure the defeat of the special interests that have long run this city, we must donate our time, talent, and money to help Mr. Frederick restore control of the district, and with it the City, to residents.”

Early ballots for the run-off election will be mailed October 13 and voting centers will be open November 5, 7, and 8. The last day to register to vote for the November election is October 10.

Wright is a former candidate for Mayor of Phoenix whose insurgent campaign shocked political insiders and resulted in a virtual three-way tie for third place with two well-known politicians. Wright, a relative newcomer to politics, practices family and criminal law with Bain and Lauritano, PLC.

- 30 -

To find out more about Eric Frederick, visit his website at ElectFrederick.com.

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Endorsements, Press Release Tagged With: , , , , ,

Jennifer Wright endorses Wes Gullett

September 15, 2011 By 50 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 15, 2011
CONTACT: Daniel Scarpinato

“Wes Gullett has been steadfast in his commitment to reform city government.” 

PHOENIX – Last night at her first appearance at a legislative district meeting since the August 30th municipal election, Jennifer Wright announced her endorsement of former opponent Wes Gullet as her choice for Mayor of Phoenix.

“To bring about positive changes, we need a leader committed to making significant reforms to city governance – and that leader is Wes Gullett,” declared Wright, adding “At each of the debates throughout the campaign, Wes Gullett has been steadfast in his commitment to reform city government.”

“I’m thrilled to have Jennifer Wright’s support,” Gullett said. “Jennifer mobilized the grassroots with her principled voice for fiscal sanity and reforming city government. I welcome her to our growing and winning coalition.”

Referring to Gullett’s just released ten-point Commitment to Reform City Government as the cornerstone of her endorsement of his candidacy, Wright stated, “Mr. Gullett made a firm commitment with Phoenicians today that he will, among other things, champion the repeal of the food tax, reform employee compensation packages, and develop a small-business friendly procurement code.”

Wright encouraged the crowd of active precinct committeemen to put their time, energy, and effort in supporting Gullett in his campaign by knocking on doors, making phone calls, and donating to his campaign to help get out the vote in November.

“In order for Mr. Gullett to be successful, we have to get out the vote to make sure he is elected. We simply cannot afford to sit on the sidelines and hope for the best – each and every one of us has to work together to make it happen,” proclaimed Wright.

Wright is a former candidate for Mayor of Phoenix who entered the race late with little name recognition, but finished in a virtual tie for third place, along with two well-known Phoenix council members. Her insurgent campaign fueled by hundreds of committed volunteers shocked political insiders. Wright, a relative newcomer to politics, is currently an attorney with Bain and Lauritano, PLC, practicing family and criminal law.

###

 

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Endorsements, Press Release Tagged With: , , ,

Jennifer Wright Statement on Phoenix Election Results

September 2, 2011 By 41 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 2, 2011
CONTACT: Jennifer Wright

PHOENIX, AZ (September 2) – Phoenix Mayoral Candidate Jennifer Wright issued the following statement regarding the Mayoral election results:

Seventeen weeks ago with little more than the courage of my convictions, I filed my paperwork to run for Mayor of Phoenix. While the campaign operated at a tenth of the budget of each of my competitors, we were staffed with an army of committed volunteers who made up the difference with hard work and dedication to the cause.

While we may not have succeeded in achieving our ultimate goal, we did set the tone of the conversation and brought conservative values and principles to the forefront of the debate.

In the course of the last 120 days, with the help of hundreds of volunteers, we gathered more signatures than any other candidate to qualify for the ballot in the least amount of time, we knocked on more than 20,000 doors, called more than 30,000 homes, garnered the support of hundreds of individual donors, had more than 10,000 unique visitors to our website and over 300,000 views on our Facebook page. In the end, because of the tireless efforts of true patriots, our campaign held its own against two well-known politicians which defied conventional wisdom. I will be forever grateful to each and every volunteer who spent their time to help in this ambitious endeavor.

While my campaign for Mayor has come to an end – my campaign to restore constitutional conservatism has just begun. For the sake of the future of our city, state, and nation, Phoenicians can expect me to continue to challenge the status quo, continue to take on the vested political interests, and stand firm on my commitment to rein in the tax and spend policies of local, state, and national government.

For our city to prosper, Phoenicians cannot afford to let the status quo be maintained. Instead, we must come together as a city and stand firm against the vested political interests; against policies that expand the size and scope of city government; and against over regulation and excessive taxation. To do this, we need a Mayor that breaks the traditional mold; that brings in private sector experience; and who is committed to making significant reforms to city governance.

Over the course of the next ten weeks, Phoenicians will have the opportunity to thoroughly examine the qualifications and the philosophies of the two remaining candidates for Mayor. Phoenicians need to stay engaged by asking tough questions, demanding straight answers, and requiring firm commitments as to how the candidates will rein in the failed policies and excessive spending of previous administrations.

While being on the campaign trail has been exhausting, it was exhilarating to see so many people who have never before been politically active get so thoroughly involved in this important election. In order for Phoenicians to restore constitutional conservatism, we must continue to stay engaged in the political process and in doing so, hold our leaders accountable. I plan to do my part, and I invite all Phoenicians to do the same.

###

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Press Release Tagged With: , ,

Phoenix election results: Republicans prepare to retake Phoenix

August 31, 2011 By 23 Comments

Yesterday, the City of Phoenix wrapped up its first round of elections by finalizing who will fill at least three council seats.

(See Results)

Former State Senator, Jim Waring and current councilmen, Bill Gates and Michael Nowakowski easily won their primaries with Waring overcoming interim councilman Bryan Jeffries and Gates fending off a challenge by Steven Gross. Both districts traditionally elect Republicans but in District 7, Democrat Michael Nowakowski won handily against conservative populist challenger, Janet Contreras.

In District 1, it appears that incumbent Thelda Williams may hold on to the 50% plus one votes to win re-election from newcomer conservative challenger, Eric Frederick. Frederick’s supporters are holding out hope that uncounted ballots will deprive Williams the 50% plus one margin for Frederick to continue into a runoff election against her. Ballots will continue to be counted with an unofficial final result announced Friday.

Union-supported Democrat Daniel Valuenzuela may have anchored 42% of the vote in Council District Five but he most certainly will face a runoff against either Republicans Brenda Sperduti or Eric Sloan. At last count, only 27 votes separated both Republicans with Sperduti holding the lead. Tea Party activists had high hopes for Charlie Ellis who finished in 4th place.

But the real excitement occurred in the Phoenix Mayor’s race where Democrat Greg Stanton won almost 38% of the vote. Grouped behind him were five Republicans who combined, secured the remaining 62% of the vote. Republican Wes Gullett captured the highest number of votes at 20.54% guaranteeing him a spot in the runoff election. Following Gullett, were former councilmen Peggy Neely and Claude Mattox. Tea Party candidate, Jennifer Wright, who entered the race at the last minute finished with 11.47% of the vote with unknown Anna Brennan finishing last with almost 5% of the vote.

Republicans now have clear choices in the runoff election to be held in November with Wes Gullett at the head of the ticket. (Incidentally, I believe we broke the story of Wes Gullett entering the mayor’s race right here on Sonoran Alliance.)

Greg Stanton is known as a progressive San Francisco-style liberal Democrat which allows Wes Gullett to run the remainder of the campaign demonstrating a far more mainstream approach of governing the 6th most populated city in America. If Republicans consolidate votes from each of the other campaigns behind Wes Gullett, it is very likely Gullett will be the next Mayor of Phoenix.

Now my editorial.

It’s time to solidify support behind Wes Gullett. Phoenicians cannot afford a liberal progressive mayor like Greg Stanton. Stanton would bring a San Francisco, Gavin Newsom governing-style to Phoenix which would ultimately bankrupt the city. The good news is that Councilman Sal DiCiccio and Bill Gates have another conservative voice and ally on the council in Jim Waring. Should Thelda Williams win re-election (which appears likely) having Jim Waring join the team of conservatives will hopefully put pressure on Thelda to behave herself on votes regarding taxes on water, food and corporate subsidies.

Heading into the runoff set for November will be an exciting exercise in rallying behind a mayoral candidate who is dramatically ideologically different from his liberal Democratic opponent. Depending on who earns second place in district five will may also spark some excitement. Republican Eric Sloan could turn that race into a union vs the taxpayers campaign but a Sperduti win would deflate conservative hopes for reform against the union candidate, Valenzuela.

For those who find their campaigns at the end of the line, don’t rule them out of future political endeavors. This may very well be the beginning for several of them. Politics is oftentimes seen as a war of ideas and their campaigns may only be one battle in the effort to win the overall war.

Congratulations to Wes Gullett, Jim Waring, Bill Gates and the Democratic opponents! Thanks to those who gave it their best effort: Peggy Neely, Claude Mattox, and Jennifer Wright. Now it’s on to the runoff election in November in the battle for Phoenix.

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

City of Phoenix Elections – My Picks

August 29, 2011 By 9 Comments

The City of Phoenix Elections are finalized tomorrow with the polls closing at 7 PM. Several people have asked me who I would vote for if I were a resident of Phoenix. Here are my picks and a little advice as the outcome.

Mayor: Jennifer Wright
I have know Jennifer for over a year and believe she is what the City of Phoenix needs right now. She is an extremely hard worker ( worked with her) and there is no doubt in my mind that she would give 110% to the job. She is very conservative and I believe she would be a strong advocate for Phoenix taxpayers. She was the only mayoral candidate who completed and returned the Arizona Taxpayer’s Action Committee candidate questionnaire – which earned her an endorsment. (Disclaimer: I serve on the political action committee.) But a word of healthy caution. While we all like to rally behind our own candidate choices, we must remember that whoever wins tomorrow – and my guess is there will be a runoff – we all need to get behind that candidate in the runoff election.

District 1: Eric Frederick
Eric has worked very hard on this campaign to explain to the voters that he will not be like the current incumbent who voted for CityNorth, the 2% sales tax on food, the water rate hike and budgets that gave the government unions what they want. Hands down, Eric Frederick is the choice for City Council in District 1.

District 2: Jim Waring
I’ve know Jim Waring for several years and his voting record has demonstrated a commitment to taxpayers. Jim has worked extremely hard as a challenger to unseat the incumbent who is the head of one of the biggest government unions. I believe Jim Waring will carry over his strong advocacy for smaller, leaner, more responsive government to the City of Phoenix.

District 3: Bill Gates
Councilman Bill Gates has done a good job while serving on the council. I believe he deserves another term but I also believe he deserves some help in numbers. Both Sal DiCiccio and Bill Gates have done their best to hold back the current council but this election affords the opportunity to strengthen those numbers and get the City of Phoenix back on track.

District 5: Charlie Ellis
Charlie Ellis would make a great addition to the Phoenix Council in a district that has been hurting and requires someone with more of a conservative populist approach to governance. Charlie has worked this campaign hard meeting with a diverse cross section of people across the district. He will add a grassroots voice to the council once elected.

District 7: Janet Contreras
I have also know Janet Contreras for some time now and have seen her in action. Janet would also bring a strong populist, grassroots, citizen-advocate voice to the Phoenix Council. This is just what the City of Phoenix needs at a time when government unions are attempting to extract more money from the taxpayers while people are hurting. Janet deserves your vote.

Proposition 1: VOTE NO
Passage of Proposition 1 will allow the City of Phoenix to circumvent the Arizona Constitution’s limit on government growth. That constitutional provision limits a large portion of city government spending to a population plus growth formula. Every election cycle, cities such as Phoenix, ask the voters to usurp that constitutional limit so that it can actually spend more than the conservative population plus growth formula. Well, it’s on the ballot again. This time, the voters of Phoenix should vote NO on Proposition 1 (more info).

Disclaimer: These are my personal endorsements and not that of Sonoran Alliance (which has not issued any endorsements).

 

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Endorsements Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Jennifer Wright Signs 10-Point Contract With Phoenicians

August 22, 2011 By 10 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 22, 2011
CONTACT: Ami Francisco

PHOENIX, AZ (August 22) – Phoenix mayoral candidate Jennifer Wright unveiled today her ten-point contract with Phoenicians putting taxpayers first in city governance and eliminating the influence of special interests in City Hall.

“Jennifer is truly a citizen candidate with no questionable ties to lobbyists, developers, unions, or other special interests groups that rob tax dollars for pet projects,” stated Ami Francisco, Wright’s campaign manager. “For once, we have a candidate that is not interested in personal gain, but in restoring prosperity for Phoenicians.”

Under to the Wright Contract, Wright has committed to eliminate the food tax while safeguarding essential services, end the practicing of subsidizing big business at the expense of small, remove burdensome barriers to business growth and development, and end sanctuary city policies.

“As Mayor, I will make decisions based on what is right for Phoenix and right for the taxpayers,” declared Wright. “For far too long, city leaders have put personal self-interests first costing taxpayers in the form of a regressive food tax, exorbitant water rates, and diminished services.”

Six candidates are vying to be Phoenix’s next mayor. Of those, three have been on the City Council over the past decade and created the problems we are facing, while another candidate spent the past decade demanding taxpayer dollars for his clients.

Wright is the only candidate that not only has no questionable ties, but also has the skills to examine onerous regulations and complex budgets to get businesses back to work and eliminate wasteful spending.

“Unlike my opponents who created the problems Phoenix is facing, I commit to work for Phoenicians first, not special or self-serving interests,” proclaimed Wright.

Wright’s Ten-Point Contract is detailed below:

The Wright Contract with Phoenicians:

As mayor, I commit to the citizens of Phoenix do the following:

  1. Repeal the food tax, and to reject any and all tax increases proposals;
  2. Safeguard essential city services, never using them as pawns in order to garner support for tax increases;
  3. End corporate welfare by standing against proposals that give unfair advantage to one business over another using taxpayer money;
  4. Eliminate city roadblocks to small business growth and development and retool the Development Services Department to help shepherd businesses through the city process, not stand as a barrier;
  5. Put taxpayers and citizens first, not special or entrenched interests, including rejecting demands from unions and lobbyists that go against what is best for Phoenicians;
  6. Eliminate sanctuary city policies that put not only citizens at risk, but also law enforcement;
  7. Use facts and data to make decisions, not emotion and rhetoric, and include diverse opinions to develop innovative solutions to the city’s complex problems;
  8. Implement internet-based open-book accounting methods that allow all Phoenicians to see how taxpayer money is obtained and spent;
  9. Move Phoenix elections to coincide with state and national elections to both reduce costs and increase citizen involvement and move Council meetings to the evenings while also televising and streaming them on the internet;
  10. Assure that all city contracts, including union contracts, are in the best interests of the taxpayers.

# # #

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Press Release Tagged With: , ,

Jennifer Wright Takes Action To Help Small Businesses

August 20, 2011 By 1 Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 19, 2011
CONTACT: Ami Francisco

PHOENIX, AZ (August 19) – When Phoenix mayoral candidate Jennifer Wright saw Mirko Masini and his small business, Caffé Italia, on the evening news; she knew she had to act.

“This is precisely why I want to become mayor of Phoenix,” said Wright, “current city policies are hostile to small business and we need a mayor who understands that.”

Wright reached out to Caffé Italia owner Mirko Masini, who wanted to expand his restaurant to include a patio and grill – but was stymied by the City of Phoenix. Mirko obtained the required permits from Maricopa County, built his patio, and began grilling up carne asada for his customers. A few days after grilling began, a Phoenix City inspector shut him down for not obtaining additional permits from the City.

For weeks now, Maricopa County and the City of Phoenix have been fighting over who has jurisdiction and whose set of rules Mirko should follow. “I cannot believe that the two entities can’t work together,” stated Masini, quickly adding, “Who is in charge? They don’t even know.”

Seeing the injustice that was happening to yet another small business, Wright immediately sprung into action to help. According to Masini, “Jennifer got to the heart of the problem and I expect resolution soon.”

Once elected to the Phoenix mayor’s office, Wright will tackle the maze of competing regulations so small business likes Mr. Masini’s do not get swallowed up by the dysfunctional process. “Small businesses are the key to our economic recovery,” stated Wright. “As mayor, I will foster collaboration between government agencies to improve the environment in which our small businesses operate.”

“At the end of the day, I want to be the last person who has to go through this,” said Masini. With Wright as Mayor, Masini has hope that he will in fact be the last small business owner to be stymied by local government bureaucracy.

# # #

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Press Release, Small Business Tagged With: , ,

Are Phoenix City Hall & the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce trying to illegally influence an election?

August 16, 2011 By 2 Comments

Coming to a city near you… Unions, lobbyists, special interests controlling election outcomes.

Out of six ballot-qualified candidates in the Phoenix Mayoral election, two women candidates were excluded from a debate held at a City of Phoenix owned facility on August 15. The debate was hosted by the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce (@PhxChamber). One of the candidates excluded, Jennifer Wright is polling at the top of the field. So why would a frontrunner be excluded?

A reasonable person would conclude that this is the same good ol’ boys politics often used by incumbents, unions and special interests to control elections.

In response to this unacceptable and alleged illegal interference with the election process, the 2012 Project, a grassroots organization, hand delivered a notice of violation (ARS 9-500.14) to both the City of Phoenix Mayor and City Manager.

Ron Ludders and Lee Earle, leaders of the Arizona 2012 Project, also requested that either the two excluded candidates ( Anna Brennan and Jennifer Wright) be allowed to participate, or that the debate be cancelled in the name of fairness.

At a press conference outside City Hall , Ron Ludders said, “Three of the four candidates that are running have been a part of city hall….this is an obvious exclusion of anyone that’s a newcomer in the political field.”

The Phoenix City Attorney , Gary Verburg, also released the following statement in response to the 2012 Project’s letter and notice of violation just moments before the scheduled debate:

“Assistant City Manager, Ed Zuercher, has asked me to respond to your letter dated August 15, 2011. The City of Phoenix Convention Center, of which Symphony Hall is a part of, operates as an enterprise leasing space to tenants who are interested in conducting events at the facility. The City has standard rental rates which are charged for the use of the facilities. With respect to the use of Symphony Hall, the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce has entered into a lease agreement to utilize Symphony Hall and is paying the standard rate for such use. No City resources are being utilized to sponsor or host the event. As the tenant, the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce exercises the control and use of the premises during the event. As such, your concerns regarding the participants invited to the event should be addressed by the Chamber.”

Verbur’s statement glaringly fails to address the fact that the City of Phoenix is an active voting member and participant in the arrangement allowing the Phoenix Chamber to host the debate and would neither recuse or exonerate itself from the alleged violation of ARS 9-500.14.

Is this the new form of  ’voter suppression’ by unions and special interests that has taken control of city governance – silencing a candidate that is polling well? Just ask the four candidates who participated at the debate August 15th who all have union ties and are beholden to special interest groups.

If you you agree to unsustainable union salaries and pensions paid for by the the 2% tax on food, and the endless water bill increases, then vote for one of the four “city-chamber chosen” candidates who participated in the August 15th debate. But if you want an end to the ‘business as usual’ tax-and-spend career politicians, look to Jennifer Wright, who knows that Government does not create jobs, and promises to create a business-friendly environment which will create jobs in Phoenix.

YouTube Preview Image
Filed Under: City Government, Debates, Guest Opinion, Media Tagged With: , , ,

Jennifer Wright releases new video in race for Phoenix mayor

August 12, 2011 By 2 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 12, 2011
CONTACT: Michael Marshall

PHOENIX, AZ (August 12) – Jennifer Wright, conservative Republican Phoenix mayoral candidate, has released a new campaign video. In her video, Wright points to her political rivals’ shortcomings as reason why they are not fit to lead the City of Phoenix.

The opposition, which has collectively been involved in Phoenix politics for decades, has tried its hand at improving the quality of life in Phoenix and failed. Unlike her opponents, Jennifer Wright stands as the only true conservative in the Phoenix non-partisan election to be held on August 30th. She does not have ties to unions or any vested interests.

Jennifer Wright, with conservative values and a pragmatic approach to governance, vows to create a business friendly climate where Phoenix’s economy will grow and prosper. Jennifer is committed to her core principles for the city: jobs and opportunities, safety and security and fiscal responsibility.

YouTube Preview Image

###

 

 

 

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Media Tagged With:

Sonoran News: It could be the right time for Wright

August 10, 2011 By 7 Comments

Our friends over at Sonoran News posted a column that we will repost on Sonoran Alliance. Please be sure to visit Sonoran News on a frequent basis. Here is their latest column:

It could be the right time for Wright
Meanwhile Neely and Gullett duke it out for lead RINO spot

CAVE CREEK – Sonoran News interviewed Jennifer Wright last week to hear why she’s running for mayor of Phoenix and what direction she’d like to steer the city if elected.

What became immediately apparent after talking to Wright and her Campaign Director Colleen Lombard the first few minutes, is she is probably the only fiscal conservative in a crowded race of seven candidates, which also includes union members.

Jennifer Wright for Mayor

Jennifer Wright (l), accompanied by her Campaign Director Colleen Lombard, visited Sonoran News last week to talk about Wright’s decision to run for mayor of Phoenix and where she stands on the issues as a conservative, Tea-Party backed candidate. Photo by Linda Bentley

When asked why she decided to run for mayor rather than for a seat on council, she said, “The mayor is only one vote, just like every other member of council,” and, since she lives in Sal DiCiccio’s district, she didn’t want to run against DiCiccio, whom she believes is doing a great job, nor did she want to move to another district.

Wright, backed by 26 Tea Party organizations throughout Arizona, is a lawyer, has a degree in economics, and she has worked at the Goldwater Institute and the Institute for Justice.

As she noticed all the shuttered businesses in the city, Wright stated, “Phoenix is going out of business.”

She said Phoenix city government has grown, while small businesses remain burdened with increased regulations and taxes.

Although Governor Brewer vetoed legislation that would have required cities with populations over 500,000 to competitively bid non-essential city services, Wright believes that’s the right way to go without the mandate to do so.

She said it wouldn’t preclude the city from bidding on services, and if it can provide those services at a lower price in a competitive bidding situation, the city should, by all means, continue to provide those services.

Wright adamantly opposes efforts to reduce the most essential city services and said, “The city needs to stop using police and fire fighters as political pawns to raise taxes.”

She stated the city needs to move in a direction that will create jobs and opportunities by creating a business-friendly environment and cut the barriers, regulations and taxes keeping businesses away.

Wright said she wants to get rid of the 2 percent food tax and the city’s administrative bloat.

Wright was a little disappointed that DiCiccio threw his endorsement behind Peggy Neely, as were a number of Neely’s former District 2 constituents.

When we contacted DiCiccio, questioning his endorsement, he said Neely supported SB 1070, she voted against the food tax and the budget, all of which he called “tough decisions on her part.”

He also stated, “I don’t agree with her on all issues, but I have watched her make some pretty tough calls …”

However, Neely’s support of SB 1070, directly contradicts her support of the illegal use of Community Development Block Grant funds to fund the illegal alien day labor center in Phoenix.

She also didn’t make any tough decisions regarding the food tax or budget. Neely knew council had enough votes to pass those agenda items without her support, allowing her to better position herself as a conservative to her former District 2 constituents.

Sonoran News has reported on Neely’s antics in the past and her way of getting tough on issues is to not be confronted by them. Neely was famous for setting up constituent meetings only to cancel her appearance at the last minute and send a lacky in to cover for her.

She did it so many times, we were able to predict the situations where Neely would duck and cover from her constituents.

Another “conservative” contender in RINO clothing is Sen. McCain’s pal Wes Gullett, a partner at the public affairs consulting firm Hamilton, Gullett, Davis & Roman, whose wife Deb formerly served as chief of staff to both McCain and the termed out, far-left Mayor Phil Gordon.

And, let’s not forget, Gullett was prominently displayed as a supporter on the shameful roster of “Republicans for Janet” Napolitano when she was running for governor of Arizona.

Although she entered the race late and was barred from inclusion in the Chamber of Commerce-sponsored debate, Wright has experienced a groundswell of grassroots support amongst conservative voters in Phoenix.

Can she win? If citizens get out and vote for her she can. The Phoenix Primary Election is on Aug. 30. Ballots are already in the mail.

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Guest Opinion, Media Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Statement by Peggy Neely regarding Phoenix Chamber

August 9, 2011 By 5 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 9, 2011
CONTACT: Paul Bentz

As I have said to the leadership of the Chamber, the media and anyone who has asked, I welcome Jennifer Wright and Anna Brennan to participate in the debate. The Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce is a private organization and they have the right to operate their debate as they see fit. I welcome any invitation to share my vision of jobs, balancing the budget, and transparency with the voters of this City. I don’t recall Ms. Wright complaining about Mr. Stanton being excluded from Tea Party events just as I don’t recall Mr. Stanton complaining about his fellow candidates being excluded from Democratic district meetings.

###

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Press Release Tagged With: , ,

What is Peggy Neely afraid of?

August 9, 2011 By Leave a Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 9, 2011
CONTACT: Michael Marshall

PHOENIX, AZ (August 9) – A rare consensus was reached by media pundits, Democratic and Republican leaders this past week. Under the bipartisan agreement, all determined that Jennifer Wright, Republican candidate for Mayor of Phoenix, should be included in the prime-time KPHO televised debated hosted by the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce on August 15 along with all candidates who have qualified to be on the August ballot.

Chairman of the Maricopa County Republican Party Rob Haney issued a press release calling on the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce to reconsider their decision which excludes two qualified Republican candidates from the debate. According to Haney, “The Chamber leaves us with the impression that they are limiting the participants to financially well-connected councilmen and a lobbyist to the exclusion of two new faces to the political scene.”

On a widely respected Sunday morning talk show, Sunday Squareoff, well-known political pundit Chris Herstam declared “[Her exclusion] is ridiculous… money has determined who is in that debate, that is absurd. All six qualified for the ballot, got their signatures, they all six should be in that debate. I don’t know what the Phoenix Chamber is thinking.” Agreeing with Herstam, former Corporation Commissioner Kris Mayes added that she was shocked by the “dearth of coverage in this race.”

The GPCC appears to be sticking to their “foolish consistency” responding to a Facebook inquiry about debate participants on Monday, August 8th, that “Wes Gullett, Claude Mattox, Peggy Neely and Greg Stanton are participating. Unfortunately, Anna Brennan and Jennifer Wright did not meet all of our set criteria.”

Three of the four candidates in the debate have made public statements that they welcome the inclusion of Wright. The only candidate who appears to be against it is Peggy Neely. With Wright gaining in the polls on Neely, Neely is certainly feeling the pressure of Wright, who appears to be poised to overtake second place for a coveted slot in the November run-off. One would have to ponder if Neely isn’t afraid that Wright’s inclusion in the debate would end Neely’s political career.

“The citizens of Phoenix deserve to hear from all qualified candidates and make an informed decision when voting in the Phoenix Mayor’s race,” Wright stated. “The Greater Phoenix Chamber’s exclusion of qualified, and serious candidates because of arbitrary fundraising goals highlights the pervasive problem of money in politics. As an outsider, I am working hard to fight against these vested political interests and take away the power of the purse in influencing politics. I am hopeful that the Chamber will reconsider their decision.”

Wright entered the race on May 6, just weeks before 1500 signatures were due to qualify Wright for the ballot. In three short weeks, Wright was able to gather over 3500 signatures with the help of over 300 volunteers. In the past three months, Wright has gone from a virtual unknown, to a top contender in the Phoenix Mayor’s race – proving her viability. Early voting has begun, with the polls closing on August 30.

###

 

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Press Release Tagged With: , ,

Jennifer Wright Clobbers Competitors in Sonoran Alliance Phoenix Mayor’s Race Online Poll!

August 5, 2011 By 9 Comments

Last Saturday, Sonoran Alliance posted a new online poll asking our readers who they would vote for as the next Mayor of Phoenix. Those results are in and the winner is…

Jennifer Wright!

Here is a screenshot of the poll results after a week of voting. (click on image for actual size.)

As you can see, Wright was able to outpace all her competitors winning 54% of the vote. If these were actual results, the Phoenix Mayor’s race would be over since any candidate winning 50% + 1 of the votes does not head to a run-off election.

So we congratulate Jennifer Wright on her online poll victory and watch and wait as the real votes add up.

And other candidates, please continue to send your press releases to sonoranalliance@gmail.com if you want to get your word out.

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Polls Tagged With: ,

Don Goldwater Endorses Jennifer Wright for Phoenix Mayor

August 3, 2011 By 4 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 3, 2011
CONTACT: Michael Marshall

PHOENIX, AZ (August 2) – Jennifer Wright, Republican Phoenix mayoral candidate, is pleased to announce the endorsement of Don Goldwater, former Republican Gubernatorial candidate and long time conservative voice of the valley.

“This year, Phoenix voters have a choice,” said Don Goldwater. “I know Jennifer Wright. She has the knowledge, courage, determination and foresight to fight to protect the people and our community from the overextended yoke of government and lead Phoenix into a new prosperous future.” Goldwater continued by saying, “We are in the WRIGHT time, the WRIGHT place, with the WRIGHT candidate to make Phoenix and the people WRIGHT again.”

“I am honored to have the support of Don Goldwater, a consistent conservative,” said Jennifer Wright, who is running as the only conservative choice on the mayoral ticket.

# # #

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Endorsements, Press Release Tagged With: ,

Western Free Press: Brad Zinn Interviews Jennifer Wright, a Declared Candidate for Mayor of Phoenix

August 2, 2011 By 1 Comment

Western Free Press’ Brad Zinn interviews Jennifer Wright, a declared candidate for Mayor of Phoenix.

 YouTube Preview Image

Western Free Press is dedicated to generating public dialogue on Arizona’s most important issues and figures. 

Filed Under: Campaign Finance Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Arizona Taxpayer’s Action Committee Announces Initial Endorsements for Phoenix City Council

July 30, 2011 By 4 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 30, 2011
CONTACT: info@arizonataxpayeraction.com

(Phoenix, AZ) – The Arizona Taxpayer’s Action Committee announced its initial endorsements for Phoenix City Council today setting the stage for voters to make clear decisions in the August 30th Election. Early ballots will be sent out next Thursday, August 4th.

Candidates were asked a variety of questions related to tax rates, types of taxation, city budgeting, unions and the growth of city government. The survey is available online at: http://arizonataxpayeraction.com/documents/surveys/city/ATACCityCandidateSurvey2011.pdf.

This initial round of endorsements includes the following candidates:

Phoenix Mayor – Jennifer Wright
Phoenix Council, District 1 – Eric Frederick
Phoenix Council, District 5 – Charlie Ellis
Phoenix Council, District 7 – Janet Contreras 

Shane Wikfors, Treasurer for the political action committee remarked, “Voters have an obligation to elect the best candidates who will protect the taxpayers of the City of Phoenix.” He added, “We believe these are the best candidates to lead Phoenix government back to fiscal sanity and away from the unhealthy relationship with government unions.”

The PAC is expected to make additional endorsements over the next week including in the race for Phoenix Councils, districts 2 and 3 and, in the mayoral and council races in Tucson.

The Arizona Taxpayer’s Action Committee (ATAC) is the largest taxpayer advocacy political action committee in Arizona. ATAC recently participated in and won a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision eliminating the matching funds provision of Arizona’s “Clean Election” law.

For more information about the Arizona Taxpayer’s Action Committee, please visit www.ArizonaTaxpayerAction.com or email the committee at info@arizonataxpayeraction.com.

###

Filed Under: City Government, Endorsements, Press Release, Spending, Taxation Tagged With: , , , , ,
« Older Posts