Some in the legislature say “Hell yes!”

 So they want to reimburse Russell Pearce for losing the recall election.

 To the tune of $270,000.

 Wowee, Pearce spent that kind of money to be trashed by a political newcomer?

 Well, er, no.  You see, that money is all from donors.

 No matter, though.  The Pearceophiles in the Republican Tea Party known as the Arizona legislature wants to follow the Arizona Constitution, which says that folks like Pearce should be reimbursed for money spent in a recall election.

 Of course, that not exactly what the Constitution says.

 Here’s what it exactly says:

 From Article 8:  “6. Application of general election laws; implementary legislation

Section 6. The general election laws shall apply to recall elections in so far as applicable. Laws necessary to facilitate the operation of the provisions of this article shall be enacted, including provision for payment by the public treasury of the reasonable special election campaign expenses of such officer.“

 Now, we all know how much the Republicans believe in strict construction of the Constitution.  Any constitution.

 Since none of that $270,00 actually came from Pearce’s pocket, the strict construction of Article 8, Section 6 say that Pearce should be reimbursed about this much:

 Zero.  Because in this case, “such officer” spent nothing on his losing effort.

 Let’s see how our Republicans behave this week, as the session winds down.  Will they be activist Republicans and ignore the original language of our constitution, flouting the founders?

 My bet?  No way.