TL/DR –
The Arizona House rejected a proposal to honor the late Sandra Day O’Connor with a statue inside the U.S. Capitol three months after her death. The decision was influenced by the existence of a federal plan to honor O’Connor with a statue, with two of her sons feeling that another statue would be redundant. The decision was also marked by controversy due to harsh criticism of O’Connor by a Republican representative, sparking debate and backlash.
Arizona House Rejects Sandra Day O’Connor Statue Proposal
The Arizona House has declined a proposal to commemorate the late Sandra Day O’Connor with a statue in the U.S. Capitol three months post her demise. The state bill was rejected by a coalition of Republicans and Democrats, as there already exists a federal plan to honor O’Connor with a statue, and two of her three sons believed the Arizona addition would be redundant.
Controversy Surrounding the Rejection
The rejection was marked by a highly critical speech by a Scottsdale Republican. Scott O’Connor, son of the late justice, expressed his disappointment at the disrespect shown to his mother.
Disparaging Remarks by Rep. Alexander Kolodin
Rep. Alexander Kolodin, R-Scottsdale, a member of the Arizona Freedom Caucus, made derogatory comments about Sandra Day O’Connor, similar to Kari Lake’s comments about another Arizona icon, the late Sen. John McCain.
Resolution and its Repercussions
Kolodin seemingly neglected to read the House Joint Resolution 2002, which proposed the statue be placed in the U.S. Capitol’s Statuary Hall. He also faced probation by the State Bar of Arizona for his frivolous lawsuits.
Support for O’Connor
Rep. Matt Gress, R-Phoenix, sponsored HJR 2002 and defended O’Connor’s legacy. “For a quarter century, Justice O’Connor served our country with distinction and paved the way for five other female justices,” Gress said in support of his bill.
—
Read More US Media News