Arizona’s Debate Drama: Hobbs and Biggs Opt for Different Campaign Strategies
In a surprising turn of events for Arizona’s political landscape, candidates Katie Hobbs and Andy Biggs will not be engaging in a debate before the upcoming general election. This decision underscores their differing campaign strategies and highlights the complexities of voter engagement in a divided political climate.
Nicole DeMont, campaign manager for Hobbs, emphasized the candidate’s preference for direct interaction with Arizonans, stating, “Face-to-face engagement with Arizonans is more effective than a stage designed for short soundbites and political theater.” Instead of debating, Hobbs will be embarking on an Arizona First Tour, focusing on connecting with voters across the state.
This tour includes both pre-arranged events and public meetings, with Hobbs engaging in discussions on topics such as tariffs with restaurant owners, water security and agriculture with farmer Ed Curry, and celebrating National Drive-Thru Day at a Burger King where she once worked. Her campaign also supports Copper State Victory, a Democratic initiative for election success.
Hobbs’ decision to forgo debates is not unprecedented. She avoided debates in her previous gubernatorial campaign and the 2022 Democratic primary. Despite leading in recent polls, Hobbs has yet to capture the majority of undecided voters, many of whom are not aligned with any major party.
Andy Biggs’ camp, led by adviser Drew Sexton, criticized the decision, arguing that Arizona’s independent voters deserve traditional debates. Sexton pointed out the state’s long history of debates since 1954, which remained unbroken until 2022. Notably, Biggs did not participate in debates during his congressional reelection campaigns in 2022 and 2024, a move Sexton defends as different due to the nature of congressional vs. statewide races.
Biggs intends to participate in the October 6 debate organized by the Citizens Clean Elections Commission, although it remains uncertain who he will face, as the commission has yet to decide if minor party candidates will join.
The debate avoidance has sparked further political accusations. DeMont criticized Biggs for his past legislative actions, while Sexton pointed to ongoing investigations into Hobbs’ campaign finances and her unsuccessful attempt to recruit Jimmy McCain as lieutenant governor.
As the election approaches, both candidates continue to navigate the challenges of reaching Arizona’s diverse electorate, each employing strategies they believe will resonate with voters. The absence of a debate leaves many questions unanswered, particularly for independent and undecided voters seeking clarity on the candidates’ positions.
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