Arizona’s Attorney General refuses to enforce the state’s abortion laws.

Arizona Attorney General Refuses to Enforce State’s Abortion Laws

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has made a bold statement, declaring that she will not prosecute doctors for violating the state’s abortion laws. This includes the controversial 15-week abortion ban.

In a recent interview with Capitol Media Services, Mayes, a Democrat, emphasized her stance on not prosecuting doctors for performing abortions. She firmly believes that abortion is not an area for government intervention and that prosecutorial resources should be focused elsewhere.

Mayes’ announcement comes after Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs issued an executive order on June 23, granting Mayes the power to enforce abortion laws, stripping county prosecutors of that authority.

The move has sparked controversy, with Maricopa County’s lead prosecutor, Rachel Mitchell, and other county attorneys considering possible litigation against the centralization of prosecuting power.

Concerns Over Abuse of Power

Mitchell warned of a dangerous precedent being set by Hobbs and Mayes. She questioned what might happen if future governors attempt similar power grabs, removing certain offenses from local prosecutors’ jurisdiction.

Mayes, however, dismissed these concerns, stating that the move should only be seen in the context of abortion laws.

Republican Opposition

Republicans, who hold a majority in the state legislature, have strongly condemned Hobbs and Mayes’ actions. They have canceled plans to consider Hobbs’ nominees and accused her of disregarding the separation of powers.

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