The Arizona X站福利所of Commerce & Industry has announced its endorsements for the July 21, 2026 primary election, backing a bipartisan group of candidates for the Arizona Legislature, Congress, and the Arizona Corporation Commission.

The endorsements, approved by the Chamber鈥檚 board of directors following recommendations from its Political Affairs Committee, reflect what the organization describes as a continued focus on supporting candidates whose records and policy positions align with the Chamber鈥檚 Business Agenda, an annual document that outlines the organization鈥檚 positions on various public policy issues.

鈥淕ood policy has helped make Arizona one of the most attractive places in the country to start, grow, or relocate a business,鈥� X站福利所President and CEO Danny Seiden said. 鈥淭he decisions made at the Capitol, in Congress, and at the Corporation Commission have real consequences for employers, workers, and communities across our state. Many of the candidates we鈥檙e endorsing have already demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting Arizona鈥檚 competitive advantage, and we鈥檙e confident this slate will bring the serious leadership and practical solutions needed to keep that momentum going.鈥�

The Chamber鈥檚 endorsements include candidates from both major political parties and span races across the state. Among those receiving the Chamber鈥檚 backing are Republican legislative leaders and Democratic lawmakers, as well as U.S. Reps. Greg Stanton (D) and Juan Ciscomani (R).

The organization said incumbents were evaluated based on their voting records and their alignment with the Chamber鈥檚 policy priorities. Candidates seeking offices they have not previously held were asked to complete questionnaires and participate in interviews with members of the X站福利所Political Affairs Committee before recommendations were forwarded to the board of directors for final approval.

The Chamber鈥檚 endorsements come as Arizona prepares for a competitive election cycle that will determine the makeup of the Legislature and other key offices that influence the state鈥檚 economic climate.

The X站福利所also endorsed incumbent Arizona Corporation Commissioners Kevin Thompson and Nick Myers. The commission regulates utilities and oversees matters affecting energy reliability, infrastructure investment, and rates.

鈥淩eliable, affordable energy is one of the most important issues in today鈥檚 economy,鈥� X站福利所Executive Vice President Courtney Coolidge said. 鈥淪ustaining Arizona鈥檚 rapid growth means electing leaders who will work to ensure we have the energy mix and modern infrastructure that job creators demand.鈥�

The organization said additional endorsements could be issued ahead of the general election, which culminates on Tuesday, Nov. 3.

The full list of endorsements can be found .

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The Arizona Legislature wrapped up its 2026 session after 153 days, leaving the state’s business community with a mix of accomplishments to celebrate and concerns about Arizona鈥檚 long-term competitiveness.

Business leaders pointed to several significant victories, including expanded health coverage options for small employers, additional infrastructure funding to support economic development projects, preservation of key economic development tools, and a bipartisan budget that avoided broad-based tax increases. At the same time, they expressed concern about reductions to public university funding, the repeal of a longstanding job-creation incentive, and policy changes affecting future data center investment.

鈥淟ike most sessions in divided government, this legislative session delivered a mixed bag of results for job creators,鈥� said Courtney Coolidge, executive vice president of the Arizona X站福利所of Commerce & Industry. 鈥淭he good news is that Arizona continues to demonstrate a commitment to economic growth, competitive tax policy, and job creation. The challenge moving forward is ensuring we don’t undermine the very advantages that have made Arizona one of the most attractive places in the country to invest and grow.鈥�

Among the business community’s top priorities this year was legislation aimed at helping small employers provide affordable health coverage to workers.

HB 2693, sponsored by Rep. David Livingston and signed into law by Gov. Katie Hobbs, creates a pathway for small businesses to join together through a statewide business organization to purchase health coverage. Supporters say the measure will allow smaller employers to increase purchasing power, reduce costs, and provide more stable benefit options.

鈥淪mall businesses often face the greatest challenges when it comes to offering competitive health benefits,鈥� Coolidge said. 鈥淭his legislation creates a voluntary, market-based option that gives employers more flexibility and employees more choices.鈥�

Another significant victory came through the state budget, which included additional funding capacity for Arizona’s Public Infrastructure Program, a tool frequently used to support large-scale economic development projects.

The program helps communities finance roads, water systems, and other infrastructure needed to accommodate major investments. It has been utilized in projects involving companies such as TSMC, Intel, Amkor, and LG Energy Solution Arizona.

鈥淎rizona’s economic success depends on our ability to compete for transformational projects,鈥� Arizona Manufacturers Council Executive Director Grace Appelbe said. 鈥淭hose investments don’t happen without infrastructure, and communities need tools that allow them to prepare for growth.鈥�

The X站福利所also praised lawmakers for largely preserving the Arizona Competes Fund, one of the state鈥檚 primary economic development incentives. Early budget discussions included proposals to sweep money from the fund to help address budget shortfalls, but the final agreement maintained most of the program.

In addition, the budget included full conformity with recent federal tax changes, avoided broad-based business tax increases, and provided funding to support Arizona鈥檚 ongoing Colorado River negotiations.

Still, business leaders say several decisions made during the session could create challenges in the years ahead.

One of the biggest concerns was the repeal of the Quality Jobs Tax Credit, a program designed to encourage companies to create high-wage jobs and make major capital investments in Arizona.

The X站福利所also expressed concern over a three-year pause on issuing new sales tax exemption certificates for future data center projects. While existing projects will continue under current agreements, supporters of the incentive argue that uncertainty surrounding future projects could make Arizona less competitive in attracting additional investment.

鈥淭he state鈥檚 economic momentum didn’t happen by accident,鈥� Coolidge said. 鈥淔or years, Arizona has built a reputation for consistency and predictability. We don鈥檛 want to send a message to investors that they can鈥檛 plan for the long-term.鈥�

Higher education funding remains another area of concern for the business community.

Arizona employers have increasingly emphasized the importance of workforce development as the state鈥檚 economy continues to expand. Business advocates warned that cuts to public universities could affect the talent pipeline needed to support growth in industries ranging from advanced manufacturing and semiconductors to healthcare and technology.

鈥淲orkforce remains one of the defining economic issues facing Arizona,鈥� Coolidge said. 鈥淚f we want to continue attracting investment and creating opportunity, we have to continue investing in the talent that makes those opportunities possible.鈥�

Attention will now shift from the Legislature to voters, who will weigh in on several measures referred to the ballot by lawmakers, as well as potential citizen initiatives that are still gathering signatures.

For Arizona employers, the end of the legislative session marks the beginning of another important phase in shaping the state’s economic future.

鈥淎rizona remains in a strong position,鈥� Coolidge said. 鈥淚n the months ahead, we鈥檒l encourage voters to elect leaders who will continue making the decisions necessary to stay ahead of states that are competing for the same jobs, investments, and talent.鈥�

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Honeywell Aerospace is preparing to launch as an independent, publicly traded aerospace and defense company headquartered in Phoenix, placing the global operation of one of the industry鈥檚 largest suppliers at the center of Arizona鈥檚 growing advanced-manufacturing economy.

The company is expected to separate from Honeywell International on June 29 and begin trading on the Nasdaq stock exchange under the ticker HONA. The planned spinoff is part of a broader restructuring of Honeywell into more focused standalone businesses.

Honeywell Aerospace marked the milestone last week with its inaugural Investor Day in Phoenix, followed by an evening reception at its Sky Harbor hangar for state and local leaders. The events offered a look at the company鈥檚 strategy as an independent business, along with aircraft, engines, and other aerospace and defense technologies bearing its newly unveiled branding.

The company reported $17.4 billion in global net sales in 2025 and is one of Arizona鈥檚 largest employers, with more than 7,000 workers in the state. Honeywell Aerospace operates across commercial aviation, business aviation, defense, and space markets.

鈥淭his is a major vote of confidence in Arizona鈥檚 economy and in the people who have spent decades building our aerospace and advanced-manufacturing base,鈥� Arizona X站福利所of Commerce & Industry President and CEO Danny Seiden said. 鈥淭he impact goes well beyond the thousands of high-paying jobs Honeywell supports today. A headquarters means the big decisions are made here, and that creates opportunities for investment, suppliers, small businesses, and communities across our state.鈥�

Honeywell Aerospace鈥檚 portfolio includes avionics, navigation systems, sensors, aircraft engines, auxiliary power units, electric-power systems and thermal-management technologies. The company will be organized into three operating segments: Electronic Solutions, Engines & Power Systems and Control Systems.

Honeywell has deep roots in Arizona. Its aerospace operations have been based in Phoenix for decades, and the company has played a role in developing technologies used across commercial aviation, defense and space exploration.

The Phoenix headquarters designation takes on greater significance as the newly independent company lays out plans for its next phase of growth. Honeywell Aerospace told investors it expects sales to grow between 6% and 8% annually through 2030, driven by demand from commercial aviation, aftermarket services, defense and space customers. Its backlog has grown to $19 billion, up 20% from a year earlier.

CEO Jim Currier said the company plans to prioritize investments in manufacturing capacity and its supply chain as it moves forward as a standalone business.

Grace Appelbe, executive director of the Arizona Manufacturers Council, said the headquarters announcement highlights the importance of Arizona鈥檚 advanced-manufacturing sector and the skilled workforce supporting it.

鈥淗oneywell鈥檚 presence in Arizona is a reminder that advanced manufacturing is not an abstract concept here,鈥� Appelbe said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 skilled Arizonans building technologies that power aircraft, support national defense and shape the future of flight. Anchoring that global operation in Phoenix strengthens Arizona鈥檚 broader manufacturing ecosystem and reinforces our state鈥檚 position as a hub for advanced industry.鈥�

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The Arizona X站福利所of Commerce & Industry recognized business, civic and legislative leaders helping shape the state鈥檚 economy Tuesday evening at its 2026 Annual Awards Celebration.

The event, held at Warehouse215 in downtown Phoenix, honored the City of Peoria, Amkor Technology, Banner Health, RNDC Arizona鈥檚 Chris Curtin and three state lawmakers for their work to support job creation, economic growth and Arizona鈥檚 business climate.

鈥淎rizona鈥檚 success does not happen by accident,鈥� X站福利所President and CEO Danny Seiden said. 鈥淚t takes leaders who are willing to take on complicated issues, bring the right people to the table, and stay focused on what matters for employers, workers and communities across the state.鈥�

The X站福利所named Peoria its 2026 Best City for Business, recognizing the city鈥檚 efforts to attract investment and plan for long-term growth.

Under Mayor Jason Beck鈥檚 leadership, Peoria has made economic development, water security and public safety core priorities. The Peoria Innovation Core, located along the Loop 303 corridor, is designed to position one of the city鈥檚 key growth areas as a hub for advanced industries and employment.

In accepting the award, Beck said, 鈥淚 wanted to make a difference in my city, I wanted to make a difference in my community,鈥� and that he didn鈥檛 waste any time getting to work executing a business plan for the city that spurred major investments and created to new jobs.

Amkor Technology鈥檚 planned advanced semiconductor packaging and test campus is one of the most visible examples of that strategy. The $7 billion project is expected to create approximately 3,000 high-wage jobs.

Amkor also received the X站福利所 Top Newsmaker Award. Its Peoria project was named magazine鈥檚 No. 1 North American deal of 2025 and will bring advanced packaging and testing capacity to the United States, strengthening a critical piece of the domestic semiconductor supply chain.

鈥淚t is more than just a strategic investment,鈥� Amkor鈥檚 Mark Rogers said. 鈥淚t is a testament to Amkor鈥檚 deep roots in Arizona, our confidence in the semiconductor ecosystem in Arizona, a manifestation of our commitment to U.S.-based advanced manufacturing and supply chain resiliency.鈥�

The X站福利所presented the Doug Yonko Volunteer of the Year Award to Chris Curtin, director of regulatory affairs for RNDC Arizona.

Curtin has supported the X站福利所for years by making RNDC facilities available for policy events, member receptions, board meetings, candidate forums and previous Annual Awards celebrations. The award is named for Doug Yonko, a former Hensley Beverage Company vice president of communications who served as X站福利所board chairman from 2012 to 2013.

Three state lawmakers were honored for their work on issues affecting Arizona employers and communities.

Rep. Janeen Connolly (D-Tempe) received a Representative of the Year Award for her collaborative approach, willingness to work across the aisle and engagement with the business community on practical solutions.

Rep. Jeff Weninger (R-Chandler) also received a Representative of the Year Award for his consistent advocacy on behalf of Arizona job creators, including his work to support small businesses and last year鈥檚 legislation to modernize Chase Field and help keep the Arizona Diamondbacks in downtown Phoenix without creating a new tax.

Sen. T.J. Shope (R-Coolidge) was named the Chamber鈥檚 2026 Senator of the Year for his leadership on major growth issues, including last year鈥檚 Ag-to-Urban water legislation and this year鈥檚 Chamber-backed proposal to bring greater transparency and consistency to the local initiative process.

Banner Health was named the Chamber鈥檚 2026 Corporate Citizen of the Year, recognizing the nonprofit health system鈥檚 role as a care provider, employer, research institution and community partner.

As Arizona鈥檚 largest health care provider and largest private employer, Banner supports communities across the state. Its $80.5 million research enterprise advanced 1,300 clinical and translational studies in 2025, while the organization provides more than $1 billion in annual community benefit.

鈥淎s a nonprofit health organization that serves the people of Arizona, we succeed when you stay healthy, not when you get sick,鈥� said Dr. Marjorie Bessel, chief clinical officer at Banner Health. 鈥淭hat means we reinvest every dollar we generate into care, technology, talent and community health initiatives.

鈥淲e partner with Arizona organizations making real impact every day, from supporting recovery and family services with the Arizona Women鈥檚 Recovery Center and Chicanos Por La Causa to generating breakthrough research and training the next generation of health providers with the University of Arizona. This is what we can accomplish when healthcare, business, and community work together as true partners to build Arizona鈥檚 future.鈥�

Seiden said the range of recipients reflected the many factors behind Arizona鈥檚 continued economic momentum.

鈥淓ach of this year鈥檚 honorees represents a different part of Arizona鈥檚 success story: public leadership, private investment, community service, bipartisan problem-solving and a shared commitment to keeping Arizona competitive,鈥� Seiden said. The 2026 Annual Awards Celebration was presented by Arizona Public Service. Warehouse215 served as host sponsor, and ViaWest Group served as gold sponsor.

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This column by Arizona X站福利所of Commerce & Industry President and CEO Danny Seiden originally appeared in the on May 27, 2026.

According to the latest  from the American Legislative Exchange Council, Arizona ranks second in the nation for economic growth over the past 10 years. During that time, we鈥檝e ranked in the top-5 for GDP growth, domestic migration, and employment growth, clear indicators of our strength as a destination for both business and talent.

Arizona has also ranked No. 1 on the Common Sense Institute鈥檚  every year since 2019. That growth has translated into real gains for Arizonans: more jobs, rising incomes, and the largest percentage-point decline in poverty in the country.

Despite this undeniable track record, a misguided proposal from some lawmakers threatens to wipe out a key piece of our economic toolbox at precisely the wrong time.

Specifically, they are calling for a sweep of the Arizona Competes Fund, a move that would effectively pull the rug out from under dozens of projects already underway, inflicting lasting damage on the state鈥檚 economic credibility.

A complete sweep would jeopardize 34 projects for which grants have already been committed, representing more than 21,000 potential new jobs and more than $12.6 billion in capital investment. That鈥檚 like wiping out an entire year鈥檚 worth of economic development progress.

Even more concerning, forcing the state to renege on commitments 鈥� after funds were appropriated by the Legislature 鈥� would trigger a serious crisis of confidence. If Arizona is willing to walk away from its obligations to employers and investors, why would anyone trust it to honor future commitments?

As budget negotiations continue, some have talked about eliminate the Quality Jobs Tax Credit, a program that has been key to making Arizona a magnet for corporate headquarters relocations.  reports that the Phoenix metro ranks in the top 4 for HQ relocations since 2018, projects that come with significant high-wage job gains 鈥� the type that fuel additional growth across the economic ladder.

The  is actively competing for an additional 51 HQ projects, representing more than 11,000 potential new jobs with average wages over $90,000 鈥� demonstrating both the opportunity ahead and what’s at stake if Arizona gets this wrong.

At a moment when the state is competing for once-in-a-generation economic opportunities, maintaining Arizona’s credibility and business reputation is absolutely essential.

To be clear: Arizona鈥檚 transparent, effective economic development programs should be viewed as a model for the nation. Unlike so many of our competitor states, Arizona does not engage in opaque, backroom deals.

Instead, our programs are accountable and performance-based, with criteria outlined in statute and companies only receiving funds after they鈥檝e filled their commitments. Arizona doesn鈥檛 place risky bets. 

These tools complement Arizona鈥檚 core advantages: a skilled workforce, modern infrastructure, and a pro-growth tax and regulatory environment.

They also deliver a strong return. Analysis from the ACA shows that companies participating in the Competes program have created more than 22,000 jobs with an average wage approaching $90,000. Those projects have generated over $1.2 billion in state and local tax revenue 鈥� meaning every $1 invested returns more than $22 to the public.

Eliminating this program would not produce meaningful budget savings. Instead, it would likely reduce future revenue by driving away jobs, wages and investment.

And if Arizona steps back, other states will step in. Competitors like Texas, Ohio and California would welcome the opportunity to capture projects that might otherwise have come here.

As Warren Buffett famously observed, it takes years to build a reputation and minutes to destroy it. Over the past decade, Arizona has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable places in the country to do business.

Lawmakers should come together to pass a responsible budget that protects and strengthens the policies driving Arizona鈥檚 growth. Arizona has spent a decade earning its reputation. Now is not the time to risk it.

Danny Seiden is the president and CEO of the Arizona X站福利所of Commerce & Industry.

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Banner Health鈥檚 research enterprise delivered new treatment opportunities to patients in 2025 while strengthening Arizona鈥檚 position in medical innovation, according to the health system鈥檚 newly released听.听

The report also highlights Banner鈥檚 role in Arizona鈥檚 health care and research economy. 

Banner鈥檚 $80.5 million research enterprise now supports 1,300 translational and clinical studies spanning neuroscience, cardiology, oncology and orthopedics.  

鈥淲e are deeply committed to advancing patient care through the power of clinical research,鈥� said Corey Casper, MD, MPH, Banner鈥檚 chief research officer.  

Banner鈥檚 research footprint spans 33 hospitals and includes 371 team members, 315 scientific publications, 158,470 biomarker tests for collaborators and 16,389 brain tissue samples shared with scientific groups in 10 countries. 

Banner said partnerships are also helping expand the reach of its research enterprise, including collaborations with the University of Arizona and MD Anderson Cancer Center, as well as relationships with institutions such as Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins University and Arizona State University.  

Amy Perry, Banner Health鈥檚 president and chief executive officer, described the research enterprise as a 鈥渟trategic investment in Arizona鈥檚 future鈥� in the release.  

Among the milestones highlighted in the 2025 report was Banner鈥檚 role in advancing the first FDA-approved device for severe mitral annular calcification, a heart valve condition affecting up to 30% of older Americans that has traditionally required open-heart surgery.  

鈥淏anner Health鈥檚 continued commitment to patients and communities shows the role Arizona can play in advancing medical innovation,鈥� said Danny Seiden, president and CEO of the Arizona X站福利所of Commerce & Industry. 鈥淚ts investment in research and patient care is strengthening our economy and making a meaningful difference for Arizona patients and communities.鈥� 

Banner Health will be recognized with the Corporate Citizen Award at the Arizona Chamber鈥檚 Annual Awards Celebration on June 2, 2026, highlighting its broader role in Arizona鈥檚 economy and its dedication to serving communities across the state. 

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As Arizona’s energy landscape undergoes rapid transformation鈥攄riven by surging data center investment, record summer peak demand, and an accelerating shift toward renewable generation鈥攆ew companies are better positioned to speak to what that transition requires than Strata Clean Energy. A family-owned, fully integrated energy infrastructure firm, Strata has built a portfolio of more than 300 projects across 25 states, with a 5 GW development pipeline and nearly 2 GWh of battery storage either operating or under construction in Arizona alone. X站福利所 sat down with the Strata team to discuss how the company is helping utilities, large energy users, and the broader grid prepare for what comes next.

What is Strata Clean Energy and who are your customers?

Strata Clean Energy is a family-owned, fully integrated energy infrastructure company focused on developing, building, and operating large-scale solar and energy storage solutions across the United States. We also support power-first data center development in key data center markets by enabling faster, integrated power solutions.

What differentiates Strata is our ability to deliver energy projects from concept through long-term operations鈥攁ll under one platform. Strata has developed and manages a portfolio of over 300 projects constructed and operating across 25 states, representing more than 6 gigawatts in commissioned projects.

We serve three primary customer groups: electric utilities, independent power producers, and increasingly, large energy users such as hyperscale data center operators. Across all of these partnerships, our role is the same鈥攖o provide high-quality, dependable energy infrastructure that supports long-term growth and grid reliability.

Can you share an overview of Strata Clean Energy鈥檚 footprint and projects in Arizona?

Arizona is one of the most important markets in the country for energy innovation and data center demand, and Strata has established a strong and growing presence in the state. Today, Strata has a 5 GW development pipeline of solar and storage projects in Arizona, in addition to the over 2 GWh of battery storage currently in operation or under construction.  Additionally, we have data center development pipeline approaching 2GW in the State.

We have been actively developing and constructing utility-scale solar and battery storage projects across Arizona, including multiple long-term partnerships with utilities to bring new capacity online. These energy storage projects are designed to deliver power during peak demand periods鈥攈elping stabilize the grid during Arizona鈥檚 most energy-intensive hours.

These projects are especially important in a region where summer peak demand continues to set new records and energy needs are increasing rapidly. Our work helps ensure that reliable, dispatchable energy is available when it matters most.

Our commitment to Arizona extends beyond energy delivery鈥攚e see our work as supporting the state鈥檚 continued economic growth by ensuring reliable, scalable power is available where and when it鈥檚 needed.

Can you explain what your vertically integrated model means in practice and how it differentiates your approach?

Strata鈥檚 vertically integrated model means we manage every stage of an energy project鈥攆rom early site identification and permitting through engineering, construction, and long-term operations.

In practice, this approach allows us to move faster, reduce risk, and deliver more predictable outcomes for our partners. Because our teams are aligned across the full lifecycle, we鈥檙e able to optimize decision-making early in development鈥攚hether that鈥檚 interconnection strategy, equipment procurement, or construction sequencing.

This integration helps address today鈥檚 environment, where project timing and coordinated execution are increasingly important. While traditional energy projects can take many years to advance, a fully coordinated platform enables projects to move more quickly while maintaining high standards for safety, quality, and long-term performance.

Ultimately, our model is built around certainty, ensuring that projects are not only delivered efficiently, but continue to perform reliably through the life of the facility.

How does Strata Clean Energy collaborate with utility partners, particularly those serving Arizonans?

Collaboration with utilities is at the core of what we do. We work closely with our utility partners from the earliest stages of project development to align on long-term system needs, interconnection planning, and infrastructure investment. Our goal is to complement鈥攏ot compete with鈥攖he utility planning process by bringing forward well-positioned projects and thoughtful solutions that help address emerging challenges. We apply this same collaboration framework whether we are advancing a solar, storage or data center project. We believe that collaboration with utilities and communities is the key to mutually beneficial outcomes.

Today, utilities across Arizona are managing a complex transition that includes rapid load growth and unprecedented demand. In some cases, large-load requests now exceed current peak demand levels on the system, requiring new creative approaches to planning and infrastructure development that add resiliency to the electrical system.

Strata supports this effort by developing projects that don鈥檛 just generate energy, but also contribute to overall grid stability and flexibility. Through the integration of technologies like battery storage, we help utilities manage peak demand, smooth variability, and improve system performance.

At its core, our partnership approach is about alignment: working together to deliver solutions that benefit customers, support long-term planning goals, and maintain the reliability that Arizonans depend on.

What role does Strata Clean Energy play in supporting a strong and reliable power grid in Arizona?

A reliable grid is the foundation for economic growth, especially in a state like Arizona where demand continues to increase.

Strata plays an important role by developing and delivering energy resources that are not only cost-effective, but also designed to enhance reliability. Our projects, particularly those that pair solar generation with battery storage, help ensure that energy is available when it is needed most, including during peak demand and periods of extreme heat.

Energy storage in particular is becoming a critical part of the solution, allowing utilities to shift energy from times of high production to times of highest demand.

We are also focused on how energy resources can contribute more broadly to grid performance. Modern energy systems require more than just power generation; they require flexibility, responsiveness, and stability.

In short, our role is to help build the next generation of energy infrastructure. One that supports continued growth while maintaining the high level of reliability that Arizona鈥檚 communities and businesses expect.

How is Strata Clean Energy positioning itself to support industries that require significant and reliable energy resources for years to come, such as AI and data centers?

Industries like AI and data centers are redefining energy demand. They require large amounts of power, delivered quickly, with exceptional reliability. In high-growth regions like Arizona, large-load demand can reach into the tens of gigawatts, creating both opportunity and complexity for the grid.

Strata is addressing this through a combination of long-term planning and innovative delivery models.

One key part of our approach is our 鈥淏ring Your Own Power鈥� (BYOP) framework, which allows large energy users to accelerate access to power while still aligning with long-term grid solutions. BYOP is designed so data centers can function as grid assets鈥攃ontributing new generation and supporting reliability as they scale. These approaches can meaningfully reduce time to initial power availability compared to traditional approaches, while transitioning into fully integrated, utility-supported infrastructure over time.

At the same time, we are developing sites in key data center markets with an emphasis on power planning and increased execution readiness. This approach is intended to improve speed and confidence for customers by helping create a more execution-ready path to long-term power availability.

Equally important is how these large energy users interact with the grid itself. At Strata, we believe the most successful projects are those that are intentionally designed to support the power system鈥攏ot just add demand. By integrating solutions such as energy storage, coordinated generation, and flexible load strategies, data centers can play a positive role in strengthening overall system reliability.

This model benefits everyone involved. It enables faster deployment for companies investing in Arizona, supports utilities in managing growth responsibly, and helps ensure that rising demand does not place undue pressure on existing customers.

As Arizona continues to attract large-scale investment, Strata is focused on helping ensure that energy infrastructure keeps pace鈥攕upporting innovation, strengthening the grid, and enabling long-term economic development across the state.

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A Maricopa County Superior Court judge has upheld the constitutionality of an Arizona law designed to help mid-sized cities attract large international headquarters projects, delivering a win for state business groups and economic development advocates.

Senate Bill 1543 was passed in 2025 amid debate surrounding Axon Enterprise鈥檚 proposed headquarters expansion in Scottsdale, which included plans for housing, hotels, restaurants, and other commercial development surrounding the company鈥檚 corporate campus.

Supporters argued the measure would help Arizona compete for major corporate and international headquarters investments by giving qualifying cities additional flexibility for large mixed-use campus developments. Critics, meanwhile, argued the bill amounted to unconstitutional 鈥渟pecial legislation鈥� tailored specifically for Axon鈥檚 project.

A lawsuit was brought by Scottsdale-based TAAAZE, a political action committee that argued the law improperly carved out special treatment for certain developments and effectively bypassed local referendum efforts.

In a ruling issued late last week, Judge Michael Herrod rejected those claims, finding that the measure serves a broader statewide economic development purpose by helping attract major international headquarters investments to Arizona.

鈥淭he statewide problem addressed by A.R.S. 搂 9-461.19 is attracting international headquarters,鈥� the ruling states. 鈥淭he legislature has made a determination that to address this problem, cities of middle-sized populations are likely candidates to attract such headquarters.鈥� 

The court further concluded that because the statute could apply to other qualifying cities and projects in the future, it is not a special law.

The Arizona X站福利所of Commerce & Industry, which filed an amicus brief in the case, said the decision reinforces the state鈥檚 ability to compete for major employers and long-term investment.

鈥淭his ruling is about much more than a single project,鈥� said Danny Seiden, president and CEO of the Arizona X站福利所of Commerce & Industry. 鈥淎rizona鈥檚 economic growth depends on our ability to compete for major employers, attract high-wage jobs, and create an environment where companies can invest with confidence. The court recognized that the Legislature has the authority to pursue policies that support statewide economic development and long-term competitiveness.鈥�

Mike Bailey, the Chamber鈥檚 general counsel and director of legal reform programs, said the ruling should result in additional clarity around the Legislature鈥檚 role in zoning and economic development policy.

鈥淭he court affirmed an important legal principle here: zoning authority ultimately flows from the state, and the Legislature has broad discretion to address matters of statewide concern,鈥� Bailey said. 鈥淭he decision also reinforces that laws aimed at encouraging economic development are not unconstitutional simply because they may initially apply to a limited number of jurisdictions or projects.鈥�

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Arizona business, agriculture, and government leaders gathered in Phoenix last week for a roundtable discussion hosted by the Arizona X站福利所of Commerce & Industry and to underscore the importance of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) to Arizona鈥檚 economy and to warn against policies that could disrupt the deeply integrated North American trade relationship.

As the three countries prepare for the scheduled 2026 review of the agreement, the conversation brought together Arizona agriculture leaders, produce importers, and state officials, including Gov. Katie Hobbs and Arizona Department of Agriculture Director Paul Brierley.

The message from panelists was consistent: free trade with Mexico and Canada is not an abstract policy debate for Arizona. It is foundational to the state鈥檚 economic success, food supply chain, and workforce.

鈥淭rade supports one in five jobs in Arizona, so it鈥檚 critical to our economy,鈥� Hobbs said during the discussion. 鈥淲e can have a USMCA that puts America first, Arizona first, while continuing to leverage the benefits of the free market to make us more competitive.鈥�

The event highlighted Arizona鈥檚 unique role within the North American economy, particularly in agriculture. According to Farmers for Free Trade data, Arizona exported approximately $1.1 billion in agricultural goods to Mexico and Canada in 2025, supporting roughly 5,900 Arizona jobs.

Mexico and Canada remain the dominant destinations for Arizona agricultural exports. Vegetables and melons, fruits and tree nuts, beverages, meat products, and dairy products rank among the state鈥檚 top exports to its USMCA partners.

Speakers repeatedly emphasized that modern agriculture is built around integrated supply chains spanning all three countries.

The Arizona Farm Bureau鈥檚 Jim Boyle, a dairy farmer, pointed to the dramatic expansion of export opportunities since the original North American Free Trade Agreement took effect in 1994. Arizona dairy producers, for example, now ship various dairy products into Mexico, supporting processing plants and jobs across the state.

Panelists also pushed back on the notion that the United States can simply eliminate agricultural imports without significant consequences for consumers and producers alike.

Fresh Produce Association of the Americas President and CEO Lance Jungmeyer noted that Arizona鈥檚 produce industry depends heavily on complementary growing seasons between the United States and Mexico. Imports through Nogales help ensure year-round availability of fruits and vegetables while also stabilizing prices and supporting Arizona warehousing, trucking, logistics, and distribution jobs.

That interconnectedness extends well beyond produce. Brierley noted the importance of cross-border cooperation on food safety inspections, livestock health, fertilizer supply chains, and water management.

The discussion also touched on growing concerns over tariffs and uncertainty surrounding future trade policy. While participants acknowledged there may be areas within USMCA that could be improved 鈥� particularly around enforcement issues involving Canada 鈥� the broader consensus was that maintaining stability and predictability remains paramount.

Boyle warned that tariffs often hit agricultural producers particularly hard, reducing export opportunities for one of the world鈥檚 most productive farming sectors.

鈥淭ariffs hurt American farmers greatly,鈥� Boyle said. 鈥淲e produce more food in the United States than we consume. Our export market really does help feed the world. Tariffs, essentially put up barriers to continue to do that.鈥�

Panelists argued that preserving and strengthening North America鈥檚 economic integration is especially important as global competition intensifies.

Brierley noted that North America鈥檚 integrated supply chains give the United States, Mexico, and Canada a strategic advantage in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.

The roundtable comes amid heightened attention on Arizona鈥檚 relationship with Mexico, particularly as the state continues to navigate issues involving border security, water policy, and international commerce simultaneously.

Still, speakers stressed that Arizona鈥檚 economic future is deeply tied to maintaining strong relationships with both neighboring countries.

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A recent court decision in Pima County is being viewed as a meaningful win for Arizona’s business and development community, reinforcing long-standing legal boundaries around when local actions can be challenged by referendum.鈥��&苍产蝉辫;

The April 30 ruling denied a petition filed by a group called Arizonans for Responsible Development, which had sought to force the Town of Marana to process a referendum challenge to a development agreement tied to a hotel project on approximately 19 acres of town-owned property in downtown Marana. Judge Jeffrey T. Bergin found that the town’s action was administrative rather than legislative, meaning it is not subject to referendum under Arizona law.鈥��

The practical effect: the project can move forward subject to appellate review.鈥��&苍产蝉辫;

Why it matters for Arizona’s business community鈥�鈥�&苍产蝉辫;

Mike Bailey, general counsel and director of legal reform programs for the Arizona Chamber, said the ruling has implications well beyond Marana.鈥��&苍产蝉辫;

“This decision reinforces an important principle: when a community has already gone through a public process to establish its development鈥痯lan, a resolution that carries out that鈥痯lan鈥痵houldn’t have to start from scratch,” Bailey said. “Using the referendum process to relitigate settled land-use policy is a tactic we’re seeing more frequently, and it creates real uncertainty for businesses and communities trying to plan ahead.”鈥�&苍产蝉辫;

Arizona X站福利所President and CEO Danny Seiden said the case reflects a broader pattern the X站福利所has been watching closely.鈥��&苍产蝉辫;

“Communities across Arizona are working hard to attract investment and create jobs, and that work depends on a process that’s predictable and transparent,” Seiden said. “When development projects that have gone through proper public channels get tied up in legal challenges designed to delay or derail them, everyone loses. This ruling is a good outcome for Marana and a good outcome for Arizona.”鈥��&苍产蝉辫;

The legal background鈥�鈥�&苍产蝉辫;

The central question was whether the town’s resolution created鈥痭ew鈥痯olicy or simply carried out a framework already in place. The court found that the resolution implemented zoning and land-use parameters鈥痚stablished鈥痭early two鈥痙ecades ago through a 2008 ordinance that created the Downtown Marana plan. Because it executed existing policy rather than鈥痚stablishing鈥痭ew鈥痯olicy, the court concluded it was administrative in nature and not subject to referendum.鈥��&苍产蝉辫;

The plaintiffs had also argued that state law requires all development agreements to go through the referendum process.  

The court rejected that argument as well, consistent with prior Court of Appeals rulings on the same question.鈥��&苍产蝉辫;

A second case, a similar outcome鈥�&苍产蝉辫;

In a separate but related case, the court also ruled in favor of the Town of Marana in a dispute over referendum petitions tied to a proposed data center project.鈥�&苍产蝉辫;

In that case, the court granted summary judgment affirming the Town Clerk’s decision to reject the petitions after finding they did not鈥痵trictly comply鈥痺ith Arizona’s statutory requirements governing referendum filings.鈥��&苍产蝉辫;

The ruling reinforces another key principle: even when a referendum is鈥痯ermitted, the process must be followed precisely. Arizona statutes establish a strict compliance standard to ensure voters have full and鈥痑ccurate鈥痠nformation when considering ballot measures.鈥�&苍产蝉辫;

Together, the two rulings draw clearer lines around both when referendums can be used and how they must be executed 鈥� distinctions that matter to businesses and communities trying to plan and invest with confidence.鈥�&苍产蝉辫;

The鈥痙ecisions鈥痗ome as the Arizona X站福利所continues to push for local ballot reform at the Legislature through SB 1429 and HCR 2051,鈥痑imed at鈥痓ringing鈥痝reater consistency and transparency to the initiative and referendum process at the local level.鈥�&苍产蝉辫;

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