Arpaio’s opponents voice their outrage
White House. Donald Trump is a coward for releasing this news on a Friday when the nation’s attention is rightly focused on Hurricane Harvey and the people who are in its path.” — U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz.
“As a former law enforcement officer, I understand the value of public trust and accountability. Joe Arpaio betrayed that trust and violated our laws. He should be held accountable, not given a free pass by the president.” — U.S. Rep. Tom O’Halleran, D-Ariz.
“For years, Joe Arpaio tormented our community, broke up our families, all while he abused his power. As Arizonans sought justice through our courts, many saw light from the years of abuse and hate, yet with a stroke of the pen, Donald Trump validated racism, bigotry, and corruption.
“Let’s be clear, Joe Arpaio didn’t earn this pardon, this was Donald Trump repaying a political favor, and this is disgraceful. Sadly, President Trump’s pardon tells us that there is no equal justice under the law. Our country should fear that this (is) the first of many reprehensible pardons for the bad guys.” — Arizona Democratic Party
“I’m outraged that an elected official who has broken the law, who has violated the rights of so many Latinos in Maricopa County, is now not going to be held accountable. He has cost us taxpayers nearly $92 million as of next year and he’s not going to be held accountable? It’s a slap in the face not only to Latinos, but the rule of law. That this sheriff purposefully ignored a court order, and people in Maricopa county will continue to pay for his illegal actions, Republicans, Democrats, and independence should be outraged.” — Maricopa County Supervisor Steve Gallardo
“The court made its decision, the President made his, but the people had the final say in November. We are dedicated to earning trust and confidence from the community while ensuring the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office delivers exceptional law enforcement services.” — Maricopa County Sheriff Paul Penzone, who defeated Arpaio last fall
Republic reporters Maria Polletta, Daniel Gonzalez, Mary Jo Pitzl, Laura Gomez-Rodriguez, Yvonne Wingett Sanchez, Ron Hansen, Dianna Nanez, Rebekah Sanders, Ginger Rough and Dan Nowicki contributed to this article.