How can Arizona make better use of the billions of dollars it already manages, and should partisan politics influence how that money is invested?
In this episode of New Frontiers, Paul Johnson sits down with Nick Mansour, Democratic candidate for Arizona State Treasurer, to discuss financial responsibility, education funding, and the growing influence of partisan politics on government decisions.
Nick shares his background, from helping build Arizona College of Nursing into a nationwide institution to the personal experiences that motivated him to run for public office. He also addresses accusations raised during his campaign and explains why he believes his business experience prepares him for the Treasurer's office.
The conversation then turns to Nick's plans for managing Arizona's investments. He outlines his proposal to change how the state's education endowment is invested, potentially generating more funding for public schools without raising taxes. Paul and Nick also discuss whether political ideology should influence investment decisions and how Arizona's state trust land could play a role in education funding and housing affordability.
Beyond the Treasurer's office, they explore the growing political divide, the importance of independent voters, and what Nick believes both Democrats and Republicans are getting wrong. They also discuss the economic pressures facing Americans, uncertainty about the country's future, and whether there is reason to remain optimistic about Arizona and America.
Can Arizona put financial responsibility and the needs of its citizens ahead of partisan politics?
Hear Nick Mansour's perspective and decide for yourself.
Chapters:
00:00 - The Growing Influence of Politics on Taxpayer Money
07:27 - Introduction
08:09 - Who Is Nick Mansour?
10:11 - Building Arizona College of Nursing
13:18 - Why Nick Mansour Is Running for State Treasurer
16:10 - Addressing Campaign Accusations
21:47 - What Does Arizona's State Treasurer Do?
22:57 - Nick's Plan to Change How Arizona Invests Its Money
31:35 - Should Politics Influence State Investments?
39:20 - Nick's Plan to Increase Education Funding
42:03 - State Land and Affordable Housing
44:14 - Bridging Arizona's Political Divide
53:27 - Do Americans Feel Anger or Uncertainty About Today’s Politics
56:03 - What Democrats and Republicans Get Wrong
1:00:45 - Is Nick Optimistic About Arizona and America's Future?
1:01:57 - Final Remarks and Conclusion
