Can a Democratic trifecta emerge from Arizona's shifting political landscape?
In short: As the 2026 gubernatorial election approaches, Arizona stands at a crossroads. With a prominent Republican challenger facing off against an incumbent Democrat, the race serves as a high-stakes battle for control over a state that has become a central theater in American politics.
The upcoming election on November 3, 2026, features Democratic incumbent Katie Hobbs seeking a second term. She faces a significant challenge from Republican Congressman Andy Biggs, who secured the Republican nomination with 73.6% of the vote in the July 21, 2026, primary, defeating Congressman David Schweikert. This contest is particularly notable because it marks the first time Arizona candidates must nominate a running mate for the newly created position of lieutenant governor, a change following the passage of Proposition 131 in 2022.
The political stakes are immense. Democrats currently hold the governorship, secretary of state, and attorney general offices, as well as both U.S. Senate seats. Winning this race could allow Democrats to establish a 'trifecta' in the state for the first time in 60 years. However, the state's political identity remains highly contested. While Joe Biden narrowly won Arizona in 2020, Donald Trump carried the state by 5.5 points in 2024.
The Republican primary also highlighted deep internal dynamics. Biggs, a five-term congressman, carries the endorsement of Donald Trump and other prominent figures. Meanwhile, the Green Party of Arizona has disavowed its nominee, Risa Lombardo, alleging she is a Republican candidate intended to siphon votes from Hobbs [S1:<0xE2><0x80><0x8A>p20]. Additionally, the Arizona Attorney General’s Office has investigated allegations that Lombardo's campaign used fraudulent donations with falsified voter information to secure public funding [S1:<0xE2><0x80><0x8A>p21].
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- Summary by Intellect · source: 2026 Arizona gubernatorial election
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