This content is part of a series called State of Emergency by Grist that explores the impact of climate disasters on voting and politics. The story is set in Casa Grande, Arizona, where Keith Seaman, a Democrat representing a Republican-leaning area, is seeking reelection and canvassing voters in the scorching heat. Despite a focus on issues like rising prices and education, water scarcity is a pressing concern in the region, affecting farmers and growing subdivisions alike.
Arizona is facing severe water shortages due to unsustainable groundwater pumping and a historic drought exacerbated by climate change. This crisis has led to a moratorium on new housing development and significant water cuts. While voters are prioritizing issues like immigration and education, the state’s future hinges on how lawmakers address water scarcity.
However, water policy in Arizona is complex and often overlooked by voters. Many do not fully understand the nuances of water management, making it challenging for candidates to prioritize the issue in their campaigns. As a result, substantive discussions on water policy are scarce in the political arena, despite the critical importance of addressing water scarcity in the state.
The upcoming election will be crucial in determining the future of water policy in Arizona, as lawmakers grapple with partisan divides and competing interests. The gridlock on water legislation highlights the need for informed decision-making and bipartisan collaboration to secure the state’s water resources for future generations.
