Local Control vs. Corporate Power: Rep. Chaplik Details Heated Capitol Confrontation with Axon CEO Over Scottsdale Development Dispute

State 48 News Exclusive: Inside the fight over Axon’s Scottsdale campus, a citizen referendum, and a bill to strip voters of their power.

Under Arizona’s desert skies, a quiet storm brews over land and local power. In Scottsdale, Axon’s bold plan for a 74-acre headquarters faces backlash, while controversial anti-referendum legislation gains traction at the Capitol — threatening to curb the public’s ability to challenge developments like this.

At the center is Rep. Joseph Chaplik, a Republican from Scottsdale’s District 3 — breaking with some in his party to oppose both the anti-referendum bill and Axon’s vision for a sprawling 74-acre campus near Hayden and Loop 101. As Axon’s ambitious project threatens to reshape Scottsdale’s landscape, Chaplik has emerged as a strong challenger. Unlike some of his Republican colleagues, Chaplik has voiced firm opposition to the twin bills that could silence community pushback.

Like many of his constituents, he rejects Axon’s vision for the land where city officials…