Protesters Demand Public Town Halls from Congressman Eli Crane in Arizona
In northern Arizona, frustration is mounting as local residents voice their displeasure outside a meeting organized by Congressman Eli Crane’s staff. The gathering, which required appointments, has sparked criticism over Crane’s reluctance to engage in public town halls.
Chants of “shame on Crane” echoed through the protest of more than 80 individuals gathered at the Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library. These demonstrators also took the opportunity to collect signatures for a petition urging the congressman to host open public meetings.
According to protesters, Crane has yet to hold an open town hall in Flagstaff, much to the dismay of constituents like Marilyn Weissman, who played a significant role in organizing the rally.
“While we’re supportive of constituent services, we want him to show up here and have a town hall, cause we want him to answer for all the horrible things that the Trump administration is doing, that he supports,” Weissman remarked.
Weissman expressed her anger over recent layoffs within the U.S. Forest Service and Veterans Administration, along with her concerns about potential cuts to Social Security and Medicaid. She finds it ironic that Crane’s office offers assistance in securing veterans’ or social security benefits while these programs face possible reductions.
“We think it’s pretty hypocritical. That’s part of what we’re saying. He’s a coward, he’s a hypocrite, he’s not really for the people,” Weissman added.
Among the protesters was Kathy Flaccus, a retired high school science teacher, who voiced her worries about actions taken by the Trump administration against the Department of Education.
“Those federal dollars were critical to our students so, yeah, add that to the list of the many things that appall me about Eli Crane. Why didn’t he stand up for our students?” questioned Flaccus. “I would really love to hear his explanation for his inaction on our behalf.”
Flaccus attempted to schedule a meeting with Crane’s staff on the day constituent services were publicized, only to be informed that all available slots were already filled.
This protest in Flagstaff follows a similar demonstration earlier in the month in Cottonwood. The reluctance to hold public town halls is further influenced by Republican Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, who has advised his caucus members against such events, citing their potential to become platforms for opposition to the Trump administration.
Crane’s office has not provided a comment regarding these developments.
—
Read More Arizona News
