Arizona Senator faces scrutiny over $1,500 chicken order | FOX 10 Phoenix

A controversy dubbed "chicken gate" has emerged involving the Arizona Senate Republicans and a dynamic surrounding a lobbyist-funded lunch. A tweet from Kim Quintero, a spokesperson with the Arizona Senate Republicans, noted that an Arizona Democrat tried turning one lobbyist-funded lunch into two. The lobbying firm Cornerstone paid for a catered meal from Gus’s Fried Chicken that fed over 100 people on Monday, and that same evening, the firm told the restaurant the event was a success. However, a Democrat lawmaker complained that the chicken was overcooked and dry, demanding they remake the entire order for pickup on Saturday, June 27th. Reporter TJ L'Heureux from the Arizona Agenda investigated the situation by filing a records request with the Arizona Senate. Email records between the lobbying firm Cornerstone and assistants of members of the Arizona Senate confirmed the details. The individual involved was identified as Senator Kiana Sears, a Democrat who represents Mesa. The original meal order prepared for the Capitol was substantial, consisting of 240 pieces of chicken, 85 mac and cheese sides, 85 coleslaws, and a combined 14 gallons of sweet tea and lemonade, totaling a bill of over $1,500. The requested remake date of June 27 at 5:30 p.m. raised questions because the Senate is closed on Saturdays and the Arizona Legislature is likely to be out of session after negotiating a state budget deal between Governor Katie Hobbs and Republican leaders. Senator Sears was appointed to replace Senator Eva Birch, who left office in March 2025, and Sears is up for election this year. When contacted about the order, Senator Sears did not offer further comment, and sources now indicate that the second chicken delivery will not take place.