The Voice - Student Newspaper

Republicans take control: Electorial results speak volumes for the nation

After months of campaigning, votes were in and winners were announced. Republicans took the majority of the spots and won the vote of the people.

Some say that with more Republicans in the midterm elections they will likely boost Arizona's popularity in Congress, giving the state's new delegation greater power in making legislation and deciding how billions of federal taxpayer dollars will be spent. Among the results new changes include; increased highway funds for the state, more money for border security and even the passage of legislation to allow the construction of a huge, controversial new copper mine near Superior. The growing influence of the state begins in the U.S. House.

A new Republican majority among Arizona's House delegation ensures that Arizona's voice will be heard by the GOP House leaders who take control in January. At the same time, the three Arizona Democrats expected to return to the House have enough seniority to claim good committee assignments and can work with the Democratic White House to ensure Arizona's interests are kept in mind. Arizona voters elected three new Republicans: David Schweikert, instead of Democratic Rep. Harry Mitchell; Paul Gosar, instead of Democratic Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick; and Ben Quayle.

Six Republican seats were gained in the Senate and the number of Democrats fell from 59 to 53. Despite the Republican gains, voters will benefit from returning Democrats. The administration has power over environmental decisions that affect the state and has used that power to halt uranium mining near the Grand Canyon. Arizona voters re-elected three House Democrats: Rep. Ed Pastor, the senior Democrat who easily won an 11th term, and Reps. Gabrielle Giffords and Grijalva, both of whom narrowly escaped defeat.

Republicans easily have an upper hand on Democrats but the Democrats in representing the State are highly respected and have a lot of power.

With a rise of votes this year hopefully the right people were chosen and Arizona will prosper and change for the better.

They need to turn Arizona around in the right way! This is the challenge for our new state officials.