Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has ignited a political debate with her recent comments suggesting the state may have "too many golf courses" as part of a broader discussion on water conservation. The remarks, made during an interview with Politico about water-intensive industries, quickly drew sharp criticism from Republican leaders and the golf industry.
Senate President Warren Petersen, R-Maricopa, accused Mayes of targeting a significant state industry. "Our golf courses support jobs, tourism, small businesses and communities across this state," Petersen stated. "Instead of attacking an industry that contributes to our economy, the attorney general should be focused on enforcing the law, protecting consumers and defending Arizona families."
Mayes' comments, which touched on water supplies and the need for conservation incentives, were made in the context of discussing data centers and other water-usage concerns. She stated that Arizona could "do a hell of a lot more when it comes to conservation," referencing tax incentives for rainwater catchment and the removal of lawns.
The attorney general's remarks about golf courses, however, quickly became a focal point. "We have way, way too much grass in Arizona. We probably, frankly — and I'm sure the golf industry is not going to like this when I say this — we probably have too many golf courses in Arizona right now," Mayes said.
This statement prompted swift backlash. Republican U.S. Representative Eli Crane, R-Ariz., responded, "We don’t have a golf course problem in Arizona. We have a dumocrat (sic) problem in Arizona." Petersen further escalated, tweeting, "Kris Mayes is promising to get rid of golf courses. I promise to get rid of Kris Mayes."
The golf industry and its supporters also voiced concerns. Tom Spengler, CEO of an e-procurement software company, noted that tee times are difficult to secure and rates have significantly increased, suggesting a need for more, not fewer, golf courses. Justin Streiff of Turning Point USA commented, "We have too much grass — said no one ever, other than Kris Mayes."
Courtney Coolidge, Vice President of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce, provided data indicating golf's substantial economic impact on the state. She reported a $6 billion economic contribution, 66,000 jobs, $2.3 billion in wages, and $520 million in tax revenue. Coolidge also stated that golf courses use 2% or less of the state's water resources, a figure supported by a 2023 study from the Arizona Alliance for Golf.
Amidst the criticism, Mayes later clarified her remarks in a tweet, stating, "Relax, nobody's closing golf courses." She explained her intention was to highlight the need for incentives for all Arizonans and major industries to swap thirsty grass and catch rainwater, particularly in light of potential worsening water situations. She also accused Petersen of spreading "false claims" and stated her focus is on addressing foreign mega-farms and data centers that are consuming water resources.
Despite her clarification, Mayes' initial comments continued to generate criticism, with some social media users calling her statements condescending or economically misguided. With the election approaching, Petersen has framed Mayes' remarks as indicative of a larger conflict over government intervention in Arizona's economy.