Ethics Complaint Filed Against Representative Stephanie Stahl Hamilton Seeking Investigation of Her Actions to Remove, Conceal, and Disrespect Bibles in the State House

Arizona State Representatives Justin Heap, David Marshall, and Lupe Diaz today filed a formal complaint with the House Ethics Committee over recent conduct by Representative Stephanie Stahl Hamilton, who admitted last week to removing and concealing Bibles displayed in the House Members Lounge.

Statement from Representatives Heap, Marshall, and Diaz:

“The Preamble to the Arizona Constitution reads only: ‘We the people of the State of Arizona, grateful to Almighty God for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution.’

The Holy Bible has been central to the formation and history of our State. It remains today a source of inspiration, guidance, and hope for millions of Arizona citizens.

Bibles have been present at the Capitol since its founding and two copies of the Holy Bible are proudly displayed in the Members Lounge outside the entrance to the House Chamber. There they serve as an abiding reminder to your elected Representatives that there is an authority higher than themselves, and that authority demands that they act with humility, compassion, and personal integrity in all that they do.

The actions of Representative Stephanie Stahl Hamilton to remove, conceal, and disrespect the sacred text held in reverence by her fellow members suggests to her colleagues, and to the millions of faithful citizens of Arizona, that their beliefs and values are no longer welcome within the halls of their own government.

We formally request that the House Ethics Committee investigate fully the actions of Representative Stahl Hamilton for unethical conduct and behavior undignified of a Member of the Arizona House of Representatives. May the same Almighty God, recognized by Arizona’s Founders continue to protect our liberty.”