STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – Arizona State Representative Chris Lopez was selected to participate in the 2025 Western Legislative Academy, marking the program’s 25^th anniversary year. The competitive leadership program is hosted by The Council of State Governments West and is open to lawmakers in their first four years of service.

The Western Legislative Academy brings together legislators from across the western United States for focused training on lawmaking, communications, ethics, negotiation, and consensus building. Participants are chosen by the CSG West Executive Committee based on public service record and interest in strengthening the legislative process and institutions.

The 2025 academy was held December 16–19 in Colorado. Fifty-two legislators were selected from more than 100 applicants.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to take part in the Western Legislative Academy during its 25^th anniversary year and to learn alongside legislators from across the West,” Representative Lopez said. “The candid conversations on leadership, communication, and problem-solving were especially useful. I’m returning with lessons I can apply as I work to deliver results for rural Arizona and protect taxpayers.”

CSG West is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization serving state legislators and legislative staff in Western states and Pacific Island governments. It is the western regional office of The Council of State Governments, founded in 1933 to support effective state governance.

Chris Lopez is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 16, which includes portions of Pinal and Pima Counties.