Brewer calls ruling of SB 1070 ‘a victory for the rule of law’

Arizona Governor Jan Brewer released a statement on
the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold portions of SB
1070.

Brewer believes the “heart” of the law was upheld and she
calls it “a victory for the rule of law,” adding later at a press conference, “It’s certainly not the end of our journey.”

“Today’s decision by the U.S. Supreme Court is
a victory for the rule of law. It is also a victory for
the 10th Amendment and all Americans who believe in the
inherent right and responsibility of states to defend
their citizens. After more than two years of legal
challenges, the heart of SB 1070 can now be implemented in
accordance with the U.S. Constitution.

“While we are grateful for this legal victory, today is an
opportunity to reflect on our journey and focus upon the
true task ahead: the implementation and enforcement of
this law in an even-handed manner that lives up to our
highest ideals as American citizens. I know the State of
Arizona and its law enforcement officers are up to the
task. The case for SB 1070 has always been about our
support for the rule of law. That means every law,
including those against both illegal immigration and
racial profiling. Law enforcement will be held accountable
should this statute be misused in a fashion that violates
an individual’s civil rights.

“The last two years have been spent in
preparation for this ruling. Upon signing SB 1070 in 2010,
I issued an Executive Order directing the Arizona Peace
Officer Standards and Training Board (AZ POST) to develop
and provide training to ensure our officers are prepared
to enforce this law efficiently, effectively and in a
manner consistent with the Constitution. In recent days,
in anticipation of this decision, I issued a new Executive
Order asking that this training be made available once
again to all of Arizona’s law enforcement officers. I am
confident our officers are prepared to carry out this law
responsibly and lawfully. Nothing less is acceptable.

“Of course, today’s ruling does not mark the end of our
journey. It can be expected that legal challenges to SB
1070 and the State of Arizona will continue. Our critics
are already preparing new litigation tactics in response
to their loss at the Supreme Court, and undoubtedly will
allege inequities in the implementation of the law. As I
said two years ago on the day I signed SB 1070 into law,
‘We cannot give them that chance. We must use this new
tool wisely, and fight for our safety with the honor
Arizona deserves.'”