Ep. 333 Victor Riches on Water, Growth, and Arizona’s Economic Future

Victor Riches, President and CEO of the Goldwater Institute, joins Chris Clements and Sean Noble for a timely discussion on the growing battle over water policy, economic development, and the future of Arizona.

With state budget negotiations still stalled and critical policy decisions hanging in the balance, the conversation turns to Governor Katie Hobbs’ ongoing opposition to budget proposals that would maintain conformity with the federal tax code—potentially impacting more than 700,000 Arizona small businesses, workers benefiting from the elimination of taxes on tips, and Social Security recipients.

Chris, Sean, and Victor also examine how water policy is increasingly being used as a tool to restrict development across the state, including major economic opportunities such as data centers, advanced manufacturing, and other job-creating investments.

They discuss the rise of NIMBY politics, the challenges facing Arizona’s long-term growth, and what policymakers should be doing to balance responsible water stewardship with economic prosperity.

As one of Arizona’s leading advocates for limited government, individual liberty, and free enterprise, Victor provides a thoughtful and fact-based perspective on the policy choices that will shape the state’s future. We are proud to have Goldwater as a Primary Partner of our efforts at LBDM.

A must-listen conversation for anyone interested in Arizona politics, economic development, water policy, and the principles of Faith, Freedom, and Free Enterprise.