Posted: Nov 6, 2011 12:23 PM by Matt Stafford
MESA, Ariz. (AP) - The architect of the groundbreaking Arizona immigration law that thrust the issue into the national political debate faces a recall election Tuesday likely to be viewed as a referendum on the state's hardline immigration policies.
The effort to oust Republican state Sen. Russell Pearce has transformed a normally quiet legislative district in a Phoenix suburb into a closely watched battleground on immigration that also features issues such as school funding cuts and state mandates on local governments.
People opposing the law believe that removing Pearce would send a powerful message to the Legislature that uncompromising stands on immigration and other issues will not be tolerated by voters.
On the flip side, a Pearce victory will say a tough stance on illegal immigration is just what voters demand.