Carl Kunasek: Arizona's Quiet Architect of Change | Tucson News

Arizona’s political legacy takes a solemn turn with the passing of Carl Kunasek at 94, a towering figure who shaped the state’s social safety net and presided over one of its most dramatic political moments. A key architect of AHCCCS, Arizona’s Medicaid program, Kunasek also led the Senate during the historic impeachment of Governor Evan Mecham — a role that brought him both acclaim and controversy. His career spanned decades, from state legislator to federal mediator overseeing Navajo-Hopi land disputes, and ended with service on the Arizona Corporation Commission. Praised by colleagues and family alike, including his daughter Karrin Taylor Robson, Kunasek’s commitment to responsible governance and support for vulnerable Arizonans left an indelible mark. Flags will fly at half-staff Saturday in his honor, as the state mourns a true public servant. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/2be465c1b38dbf61