Arizona Politics & Accountability: Arizona AG Kris Mayes is facing political blowback after declining to charge Gov. Katie Hobbs in a pay-to-play probe, with critics arguing Mayes protected a political ally while a parallel Maricopa County investigation continues. Immigration Courts & Due Process: A court dispute over unaccompanied children’s representation escalated when a 1-year-old appeared in Arizona immigration court without legal representation and was told to file for asylum or face deportation, spotlighting gaps after a federal contract ended. Education Policy in the Courts: A coalition of states and civil-rights groups urged the U.S. Supreme Court to hear a case about whether children can be denied special education services at private schools chosen by their parents. Public Safety Tech & Privacy: Queen Creek is weighing tighter rules on automated license plate readers, including possible misdemeanor penalties for misuse, amid broader Valley controversy over how the cameras are used. Water & Federal Policy: The federal government finalized major Colorado River cuts for 2027-2028, with Arizona expected to take some of the biggest reductions, while local leaders brace for enforcement and conservation impacts. Local Governance: Chandler Unified debated “land acknowledgment” at a school board meeting, with the issue set to return as an action item. Wild Horses: Gov. Katie Hobbs halted Salt River wild horse removals and ordered a genetic viability study, a win for advocates but short of broader protections some lawmakers sought.