When it comes to Presidential Elections, Arizona has always played a vital role. As a swing state that constantly changes its mind between the Democratic and Republican candidates, its role is vital in selecting the next Commander in Chief.

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The people play the most important part in this process, placing their votes on election day. The voters are what gives Arizona its swing state status, changing their minds every four years on what they believe is right for America.

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A new Proposal in the Arizona Legislature would change that completely.

What is the Proposal?

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Proposed by Arizona Senator Anthony Kern, Senate Concurrent Resolution 1014 is Kern's solution to the tumultuous 2020 election fiasco in which many believed that Donald Trump won the state, not Joe Biden.

The proposal states that Presidential elections would be decided by the state legislature, and not the individual voters. This operates very similarly to the Electoral College system, meant to override popular votes in favor of state officials who have a better understanding of national politics than the average voter.

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While citizens would still be allowed to vote, it would be allowed to be overturned at any point by the state legislature.

What Does This Mean?

No matter your political affiliation, this is not a good thing. Taking voting out of the hands of the people makes sure your voice isn't heard, which destroys the main principle that this country was founded on.

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While those holding office seem to have a better understanding of what's going on in Washington, taking away your vote takes away what made Arizona a swing state in the first place: the constantly shifting political opinion of its residents.

Should We Be Worried?

Odds are, this is very similar to a proposal in the Missouri Senate, asking to bring back legal duels. That's right, like, "meet me at the town square at high noon" duels. That proposal was brought up for the sole fact of drawing attention to the state government and had no chance of making its way into law.

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This bill will likely follow the same path, seeing as its shock value of cutting state citizens out of elections is extremely outlandish.

The Arizona Senate has also stated that they will not look at any legislation proposed that will conflict with the will of voters.

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It looks like this is nothing more than a glorified publicity stunt by Kern, but Arizona voters should keep an eye on this proposal as the 2024 election day draws nearer.

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