Arizona State Representative Tony Rivero said April 16 that “Arizona is playing a central role in rebuilding America’s semiconductor capacity.” The statement comes as Arizona advances legislative initiatives and international partnerships to strengthen its position in the domestic semiconductor industry.
The topic is significant as the state seeks to attract major investments, create jobs, and remain competitive in the global technology sector. According to an announcement posted by the Arizona House GOP, Rivero issued his statement during the launch of the Joint Legislative Taiwan Caucus at the state capitol in Phoenix. The bipartisan group brings together members from both chambers of the Arizona Legislature to serve as a forum for lawmakers. It will engage with industry leaders, higher education institutions, workforce partners and economic development organizations on matters connected to the semiconductor sector.
Rivero said, “This caucus reflects our commitment to a strong partnership with Taiwan, support for major investment and job creation in our state, and policies that keep Arizona competitive in one of the world’s most important industries,” according to the Arizona House GOP.
TSMC Arizona has expanded its planned investment to $165 billion, which is described as the largest foreign direct investment in a greenfield project in American history. Plans include six semiconductor wafer fabrication plants, two advanced packaging facilities and an R&D team center across 1,100 acres in Phoenix. The first three fabs alone are expected to create 6,000 direct high-tech manufacturing jobs along with tens of thousands of construction and supplier positions. Greater Phoenix already supports more than 140,000 jobs in semiconductor-related occupations and continues rapid expansion according to TSMC.
Taiwanese semiconductor and technology companies have committed at least $250 billion in direct investments under a new bilateral trade agreement with the United States. The pact also includes $250 billion in credit guarantees from Taiwan’s government supporting domestic supply chains and ecosystems. These moves reinforce American leadership in critical technologies such as artificial intelligence and high-performance computing according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Rivero is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives representing District 27. He previously served on Peoria city council and held roles within city government operations. Rivero earned degrees from Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University according to Ballotpedia. Rivero was elected to represent District 27 in 2025, replacing Benjamin Cornel Toma.
