Samuel P. Goddard Papers

12th Governor of Arizona

Governor at Work

As governor, Goddard promoted several key social and economic issues, including the strengthening of Arizona's relations with Sonora, Mexico. Goddard often flew himself back and forth to Mexico for state business as well as vacations. He enjoyed a close relationship with the Governor of Sonora, Luis Encinas. Although his powers as head of state were limited, Goddard actively sought fiscal reforms in the state legislature, including the first state budget office. In 1965, Goddard called a special session of the state legislature and proposed a $100 million state bond to finance state institutions. The bond initiative failed to win the necessary votes in a statewide ballot, overcome by a 'pay as you go' philosophy. In addition, Goddard went against Arizona's reluctance to use federal funds for social programs and secured federal aid for health insurance for the elderly under the Kerr-Mills program and more jobs under the Economic Opportunity Act.¹

Goddard and the Legislature

In addition, Goddard worked to increase the chief executive's strength. He believed the governor should play an active role in problem solving and building the legislative agenda.² Goddard's strong desire to improve the quality of life for residents of Arizona often led him into conflict with the state's legislature over ideological differences and practical concerns. His relationship with the state legislature remained contentious throughout his term as governor.

¹Source: David R. Berman, Arizona Politics and Government: The Quest for Autonomy, Democracy, and Development, (Lincoln: University of Nebraska Press, 1998), 116, 168.

²Source: David R. Berman, Arizona Politics and Government: The Quest for Autonomy, Democracy, and Development, (Lincoln: University of Nebraska Press, 1998), 116.