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Navajo Lawmaker Concerned With Tribal Representation In Arizona's COVID-19 Discussion

On June 5, Gov. Doug Ducey tweeted a photo of a meeting he held with a group of state lawmakers to discuss the state’s response to the pandemic.

His efforts didn't impress some, like state Rep. Arlando Teller, a Democrat and a member of the Navajo Nation.

Teller tweeted back: “Unfortunately, Arizona tribal and rural representation isn’t seen or heard or invited to this discussion.” He added the hashtag 'crickets.'

The Show spoke with Teller about if he has been able to communicate with the governor or his staff about his community’s needs.

The Show also reached out to the Governor’s Office for comment on this story.

In an email, a spokesman said the governor has had multiple meetings with lawmakers from both parties, as well as mayors, county officials, law enforcement and community leaders, among other people.

The statement goes on to say that the governor and his office have also “been in regular contact with tribal leaders, including hosting conference calls and regular one-on-one calls with leaders of the Navajo Nation.” 

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Mark Brodie is a co-host of The Show, KJZZ’s locally produced news magazine. Since starting at KJZZ in 2002, Brodie has been a host, reporter and producer, including several years covering the Arizona Legislature, based at the Capitol.