Get to know: Rep. Tony Rivero

This month, CBN spoke with Rep. Tony Rivero about what issues he wants to tackle in the upcoming session, what he will be looking to accomplish as the chairman of the State & International Affairs and why he decided to stay and serve in his hometown of Peoria.

Question: What are you looking forward to accomplishing during the next session?
Answer: Continuing to promote an environment where every Arizona student gets an excellent education, and fighting to protect Arizona’s pro-business climate.

Q: Is there anyone in public life you’ve particularly admired over the years?
A: John McCain selfless and courageous service to both our country and state has always inspired me, whether it was his service in Vietnam or in the U.S. Senate.

Q: You grew up in Peoria and now it’s the district you serve. What made you decide to stay in your hometown?
A: Growing up in Peoria instilled a love and appreciation for the community. It’s a great place to live and work, I couldn’t imagine a better place to raise a family and I am honored to be able to fight for my hometown at the State Legislature.

Q: What do you think the biggest issues are going to be for the 54th Legislature?
A: Like every year, education will be a critical issue for the Legislature. In addition, water, criminal justice reform and tax conformity are major topics the legislature will need to tackle.

Q: You’re the chair of the Committee on State & International Affairs. What will be your top goals with this committee?
A: My goal is to connect Arizona Legislators with business, cultural and political leaders internationally and to help them build relationships with those leaders. I believe that Arizona has a unique opportunity as both a border state, and a state with a fast-growing economy and population, to leverage international trade and to be a leader on international issues. Furthermore, I want to use this committee to promote Arizona internationally and demonstrate why it is a good state to visit and do business in.