Steve Pierce chosen as new Ariz. Senate president

Nov 10, 2011
AP

Web Producer: Brian Pryor


PHOENIX (AP) — On an 11-10 vote, Arizona Senate Republicans have selected Prescott rancher Steve Pierce to replace Senate President Russel Pearce who was ousted in a recall election.

Steve Pierce was selected over current Majority Leader Andy Biggs during a closed-door caucus.

Steve Pierce and Russell Pearce aren't related. They spell their names differently. Both are fiscal conservatives.

They split in March when Steve Pierce was among a handful of Republicans who voted against five illegal immigration bills backed by Russell Pearce but defeated by the Senate.

The bills included measures intended to force a U.S. Supreme Court ruling against automatic citizenship for U.S.-born children of illegal immigrants.

Steve Pierce and Biggs said they don't expect to make major policy changes from the course set during Russell Pearce's presidency.

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