Statement by Councilwoman Nikki McMillen Lee of Ward 4, Exactly as Delivered
Please note: The political content has not been removed.
“I have always been an optimist, believing in solutions, progress, and the power of people working together. I try to avoid being “political” and focusing too much on state, federal, or international issues, instead prioritizing what we can control.
However, I cannot ignore the uncertainty and fear so many Tucsonans, including my own family, are feeling right now. What is happening at the federal level is impacting our families, businesses, and future.
We need awareness at every level of government and more voices speaking out if we hope to change course. This year has already tested my optimism, and we are only at the start of March.
The instability and dysfunction at the federal level are not just headlines. They are having real and direct consequences for our community. Veterans are worried about their healthcare, disability compensation, and other critical benefits they have earned and rely on.
Over 2 million Arizonans, including many Tucsonans, rely on AHCCCS, the state’s Medicaid program, and now face uncertainty about their coverage. Some fear that Medicare and Social Security could be next.
Federal contractors, including many in Tucson, have seen contracts abruptly canceled under “convenience” clauses, leaving workers and businesses scrambling to adapt with little warning. Many local families and businesses are living in fear of increased immigration enforcement.
Tucson is a welcoming community, and the Tucson Police Department (TPD) does not enforce federal immigration laws. Despite these local policies, some parents are afraid to send their children to school, worried about ICE raids.
Others fear going to work, uncertain if they will return home at the end of the day. A friend of mine who leads a school district in Virginia has seen a growing number of Spanish-speaking students leave in-person classrooms for online school because their families fear being targeted.
It is not just Spanish-speaking families who are feeling this uncertainty. A Ward 4 family who moved here from Canada for work 2 years ago is now questioning their future, unsure of their immigration status in the U.S.
Meanwhile, we are seeing the economic impact of Canadian winter visitors choosing to boycott the United States due to its current political climate. These visitors have historically brought significant tourism dollars to Tucson, supporting local businesses, restaurants, and events.
Their absence is yet another example of how national instability has direct consequences for our local economy. Coming from the private sector with a background in technology and cybersecurity, I understand the need for efficiency, agility, and fiscal responsibility.
Addressing the nation’s deficit is critical, but reckless mass firings and haphazard cuts are not the way. Government is not a business, and the consequences are harming millions, including Tucsonans.
Elon Musk and “DOGE” have compromised national security, dismantled essential programs, and exposed sensitive Treasury data. Taxpayers, veterans, retirees, low-income families, and small business owners are now at risk.
This failure of leadership and security has left millions vulnerable. Smart and informed decisions, not chaos, are what truly protect Americans. Our city is directly affected by this instability.
Right now, the City of Tucson has $283.9 million in unspent federal funding promised for critical public safety, housing, infrastructure, and water projects. We have already seen federal funds frozen, and some cities have had money clawed back entirely.
We cannot afford for that to happen here. Public servants are being targeted and fired by the thousands, including those who provide critical services like VA housing specialists working to get veterans off the streets right here in Tucson.
The federal government’s growing hostility toward its workforce is now spreading to the state level, with Arizona leaders pushing to eliminate remote work for state employees.
These dedicated professionals keep our nation, states, and communities running, often earning less than they could in the private sector because they believe in service. They deserve support and respect, not political attacks and instability.
I want to take a moment to express my deep appreciation for Tucson’s public servants. So far this year, I have signed hundreds of work anniversary cards, including one for a city employee celebrating 40 years of service.
That kind of dedication should be valued, not undermined. note cards Whether you work for the City of Tucson, Pima County, the State of Arizona, or the federal government, I want to thank you for your dedication to public service.
Your work is essential to our community, and despite the challenges, know that most Americans stand with you and appreciate all that you do. The City of Tucson is actively fighting back through legal action and advocacy.
Mayor and Council have directed the City Attorney to join as amicus, or “friend of the court,” in key legal cases. This allows the city to provide legal arguments and support in cases that impact our residents, workers, and local authority, even if we are not directly involved in the lawsuit.
We are also advocating at the state and federal levels, pushing back against harmful legislation and standing up for policies that protect our community.
Despite the uncertainty around us, I remain committed to fighting for Tucson. Our residents, city employees, and future deserve stability, respect, and a government that puts people first. No matter how challenging the road ahead, your Mayor & Council will keep fighting and pushing forward.”
Sources: City of Tucson.
