Trent's Blog

For many years the people in the New Mexico and Arizona Territories petitioned Congress seeking admission into the Union. During the late 19th Century various members of Congress introduced bills in support of statehood for Arizona and New Mexico, but none were approved. Despite widespread concern over Arizona's constitutional provision for the recall of judges, Congress passed H.J. Res. 14, "to admit the territories of New Mexico and Arizona as States into the Union." On August 15, 1911, President William Howard Taft vetoed the statehood resolution in large part because Arizona's constitution allowed for the recall of judges, a provision that he stated went against the need for an independent judiciary.

 

Immediately after Taft vetoed the resolution providing for statehood for New Mexico and Arizona, Congress passed S. J. Res. 57, admitting the territories of New Mexico and Arizona as states conditioned upon Arizona voters' adoption of an amendment to the constitution removing the judiciary recall provision. President Taft approved the resolution on August 21, 1911. On February 14, 1912, Taft signed the proclamation making Arizona the 48th state, and the last of the contiguous states to be admitted to the union.

 

At the time of its statehood, Arizona epitomized the economic promise of the American West. Rich in natural resources, the state quickly earned its reputation as the home of the Five C’s – copper, cattle, cotton, citrus, and climate. Its people reflected the rich history and heritage of the Southwest, from the influences of its Native American and Hispanic cultures to the adventurous spirit of its early prospectors, ranchers, and farmers. All embraced Arizona’s rugged and rich environment to create a unique and prosperous lifestyle.

 

Arizona was founded on rugged individualism matched with hard work and vision. It was this indomitable spirit that shaped and molded our state into the place we now call home. I would like to thank not only the people that make up this beautiful state but Arizona's elected leaders, Federal and State, including Arizona's governor, Jan Brewer.

 

I have known Governor Brewer for 30 years; she is a dear friend. Her graceful leadership directly aided Arizona to a balanced budget – improving Arizona’s position -- and incomes -- through an agenda of economic competitiveness -- reforming education and state government -- and a renewed fight for states’ rights.

 

Under her leadership, Arizona is now creating jobs -- 46,000 of them in the last year alone. In fact, Arizona’s job growth ranks 7th best in the nation.

 

If one thing is certain, it is that Arizonans are determined. Our people are Western strong. With the Centennial upon us, let us proudly celebrate the obstacles we have overcome, the progress we have made and the opportunities we have created over the past 100 years.