Gov. Doug Ducey meets with Trump to discuss border security, immigration

PHOENIX — Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey met with President Donald Trump on Wednesday to discuss immigration, border security and other issues that affect the state.

The governor, along with first lady Angela Ducey, discussed the “humanitarian and security crisis at our southern border,” according to spokesman Patrick Ptak.

Ducey thanked the president for his administration’s focus on border security during the Oval Office meeting and reiterated the need for Congress to address the issue.

The pair also discussed efforts to grow Arizona’s economy and workforce development.

Ptak did not mention whether Ducey and the president discussed a possible closure of the southern border, which officials say could cause a major hit to Arizona’s economy.

Ducey told reporters after the meeting that he would be supportive if the border were to close and would like it to be “as short as possible.”

But Ptak reiterated that the governor does not want to see the border shut down.

“No one wants to see closures at the border. Congress needs to act. He will support the president in his continued efforts to secure the border,” Ptak said in a tweet.

Ducey will meet with Ivanka Trump at the White House on Thursday to discuss childcare and workforce issues.

He will also meet with U.S. Sens. Martha McSally and Kyrsten Sinema to discuss passing the drought contingency plan and the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement.

The governor and first lady were in Washington to receive an award for Arizona’s efforts to improve child welfare.

The Duceys were given the Diamond Jubilee Voice of Children Award from Childhelp, an Arizona-based nonprofit that helps abused and neglected children. McSally was also in attendance.

“Angela and I are honored to accept this award on behalf of all of the foster, adoptive and kinship families, caseworkers, mentors, teachers, faith leaders, volunteers and more who work tirelessly each day to serve Arizona’s children and families,” Ducey said in a statement.

“Arizona has turned around its child welfare system — becoming a model for improving outcomes and providing kids safe and loving homes. We’re proud of this progress, but we are never going to stop fighting for Arizona’s kids.”

The governor and the first lady will be in Washington until Friday for Childhelp National Day of Hope events.

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