Marsh shows at debate, gets served court papers

August 4, 2004

State House candidate Wes Marsh made a rare public appearance at a debate Tuesday, and in return was greeted by a process server who presented him with court papers for unpaid child support.

The process server spotted Marsh pouring himself a glass of water minutes before the debate began at the Carefree Resort and Villas. He quietly placed the documents in a folder and few people in the audience were aware of the event.

The Clean Elections Commission fined Marsh two years ago for missing a mandatory debate.

Marsh’s low profile had caused some to wonder if he was a serious candidate for the District 7 seat. But he was clearly engaged in the debate with Republican primary candidates Ray Barnes, the incumbent, and David Burnell Smith and Thom Von Hapsburg.

The debate was amiable until candidates clashed over their involvement with the Republican Party’s district activities.

Marsh and Von Hapsburg rarely attend District 7 meetings, prompting one person in the audience to ask why they should represent northwest Scottsdale, Carefree, Cave Creek and northeast Phoenix.

Von Hapsburg said he was told not to attend meetings.

"My type of people are not welcome there," said Von Hapsburg, who is gay.

Smith denied the party excluded him, but then took a jab at Von Hapsburg.

"You’ve done nothing for this district," Smith said.

Marsh responded that his schedule hasn’t allowed him to attend meetings, which fall on Mondays.

Barnes challenged Marsh to find time to get involved. "I’ll match my schedule with your schedule."

During the debate, three of the candidates portrayed themselves as conservatives: Barnes, Marsh and Smith. In contrast, Von Hapsburg presented himself as a moderate.

The three conservative candidates said they support a constitutional amendment against gay marriage. Von Hapsburg said he opposes gay marriage, but said an amendment is not necessary because Arizona already prohibits it.

Illegal immigration was a major topic. Von Hapsburg said the issue is primarily a federal one over which state lawmakers have little control. The other candidates spent considerable time saying they support the Protect Arizona Now initiative, which would force government officials to ask if someone to prove legal residency before providing public benefits.

All candidates support reform of legislative budget methods and priorities. Smith said the process is too complicated and said this year’s budget is too big. He called for lawmakers to pass a budget at the start of the session and then consider new programs and laws.

Von Hapsburg said the state needs to generate revenue by encouraging new business, and he said all agencies should face cutbacks in tight times.

Barnes called for more accountability within agencies and said lawmakers need more control.

Marsh said he wants a more open process and less spending. The state spends billions a year in pork barrel projects, Marsh said.