Evan Mecham's Email & Phone Number

📖 Summary

Evan Mecham was a controversial figure in Arizona's political history, serving as the 17th Governor of Arizona from 1987 to 1988. Mecham, a Republican, was known for his outspoken conservative views and polarizing policies during his short time in office. His tenure as governor was marked by a series of scandals and controversies that ultimately led to his impeachment and removal from office, making him the first U.S. governor to be impeached and removed from office in almost six decades.

Mecham's political career began in the 1960s when he ran for various political offices in Arizona, including a failed bid for governor in 1962. He made his fortune in the automotive industry, owning car dealerships in the Phoenix area. Mecham's political views were deeply rooted in conservatism, and he was outspoken in his opposition to federal intervention in state affairs and government spending.

In 1986, Mecham ran for governor once again and won the election, becoming the first Republican governor of Arizona in 12 years. However, his time in office was tumultuous from the start. Mecham quickly drew criticism for his controversial policy proposals, including the elimination of the state holiday honoring Martin Luther King Jr. and his attempts to roll back affirmative action programs. These actions led to backlash from civil rights activists and the African American community, as well as a major boycott of the state by various groups.

Mecham's tenure as governor was also marred by financial scandals and legal troubles. He faced accusations of misappropriating campaign funds and using state resources for personal gain, leading to a grand jury investigation and criminal charges. In addition, Mecham faced multiple lawsuits from former aides and employees who alleged wrongful termination and other misconduct.

The controversies surrounding Mecham's administration created a political firestorm in Arizona, with calls for his resignation and widespread protests against his policies. In 1988, Mecham became the first Arizona governor to be impeached and removed from office. The impeachment trial focused on allegations of misuse of state funds and obstruction of justice. Ultimately, Mecham was convicted by the Arizona Senate and removed from office, ending his brief and tumultuous tenure as governor.

After his removal from office, Mecham faded from the political spotlight but remained a divisive figure in Arizona politics. He made unsuccessful attempts to regain political relevance, running for governor once again in 1990 and 1994, but failing to secure the Republican nomination. Mecham continued to be a vocal and controversial figure, making headlines for his outspoken views on issues such as immigration and government overreach.

Evan Mecham passed away in 2008, leaving a complicated and controversial legacy in Arizona politics. His time as governor was marked by tumult and turmoil, and he remains a polarizing figure in the state's political history. While some view Mecham as a principled conservative who stood firm in his beliefs, others see him as a polarizing figure whose tenure as governor was defined by controversy and scandal. Regardless of one's view, Evan Mecham will forever be remembered as a pivotal and controversial figure in Arizona's political landscape.