In a pivotal decision for the Arizona Republican Party, Sergio Arellano has been elected as the new state party chairman, steering the GOP toward the 2026 elections. This change in leadership follows Gina Swoboda’s decision to step down, despite attempts to persuade her to stay.
The election process, held on a Saturday, culminated in a runoff between Arellano and Pam Kirby, a former first vice chair of the party, councilwoman of Paradise Valley, and member of the Scottsdale school board. The outcome saw Arellano securing the position, promising to lead with a grassroots approach. “I hope to achieve victory alongside you,” Arellano stated, emphasizing his commitment to the party’s core members.
Transition and Election Dynamics
Typically, Arizona’s parties elect new leadership in odd-numbered years. However, a special vote was held during the party’s annual meeting due to Swoboda’s October announcement of her resignation. This announcement coincided with her decision to run for Congress in Arizona’s District 1.
Over 1,000 Republicans gathered at Prescott Valley’s Findlay Toyota Center to cast their votes. Some members pushed for Swoboda to reconsider her resignation. A promotional video highlighted her achievements, including stabilizing the party’s finances and aiding in several key election victories. However, Swoboda stood firm in her decision, telling attendees, “Please do not try to keep trying to keep me.”
The election process, spanning nearly 11 hours, involved hand-counting votes—a decision made to address criticisms about vote tabulators from grassroots members following concerns over election integrity. After the initial round produced no majority winner, Arellano and Kirby advanced to a runoff, with Arellano eventually prevailing with a 761-621 vote.
Continuing the Trump Legacy
Arellano, closely tied to Trump’s campaigns, intends to continue the party’s alignment with the former president’s agenda. His history includes significant roles in Trump’s 2016 and 2020 presidential efforts. Arellano praised Swoboda’s contributions, stating, “You laid the groundwork for something great,” and expressed his intent to build on her successes.
Swoboda’s tenure saw a reversal of the financial instability and donor withdrawal experienced under previous chairs Kelli Ward and Jeff DeWit. Despite the party’s registration advantage, Republicans faced losses in key state races under Ward’s leadership. Swoboda managed to stabilize the party and reclaim donor support, which Arellano aims to maintain.
Arellano articulated his vision to expand the party’s reach, particularly among Latinos and other minority groups. “We want to reach more Latinos. We want to reach more minorities,” he said, focusing on broadening the party’s appeal and engagement.
Financial and Legal Challenges
Before her departure, Swoboda highlighted the need for Arellano to retain donor confidence, particularly given the party’s current financial standing of $164,000 available for election spending. Arellano expressed confidence in presenting a strategic plan to persuade donors of the party’s objectives.
The meeting also included debates over the rules governing internal party functions, nearly disqualifying Arellano from participating in the election. The dispute over state committeemen qualifications, particularly fractional appointments, prompted a vote among party members to resolve the issue. Arellano was ultimately allowed to remain on the ballot and emerged victorious.
The Arizona Republican Party now looks forward to Arellano’s leadership as it navigates the political landscape leading up to the 2026 elections, focusing on unity and strategic growth.
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