Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs Chooses Independent for Lieutenant Governor Bid
In a strategic move to appeal to a broader voter base, Arizona’s Democratic Governor, Katie Hobbs, has selected John Giles, a former Republican who recently became an independent, as her running mate for the upcoming election. This decision introduces a bipartisan element to her campaign as Arizona prepares to elect its first lieutenant governor.
John Giles, known for his role as mayor of Mesa, Arizona’s third-largest city and a suburb of Phoenix, was chosen on Tuesday. This selection appears to be aimed at attracting Republican and independent voters in a state where the GOP has traditionally held sway. Despite a narrow win over Kari Lake in 2022, Hobbs remains a vulnerable Democratic figure in a state where Republicans have recently increased their voter registration advantage.
The Republican candidate for governor, U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs, has chosen Sine Kerr, a farmer and former state lawmaker, as his vice-gubernatorial candidate. Biggs’ choice aims to balance his urban support in Phoenix with Kerr’s rural connections.
Giles’ Conservative Legacy and Political Shift
Giles, who led Mesa from 2014 to 2025, has been outspoken against Trump and supported several Democrats, including Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential race. His endorsements extended to Democratic candidates opposing Trump’s allies, such as Hobbs and current U.S. Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego. As mayor, Giles took a progressive step by signing a proclamation supporting equal treatment for LGBT residents, a contentious move in a conservative area.
In anticipation of Hobbs’ announcement, the Biggs campaign launched a website criticizing Giles for his Democratic endorsements. Drew Sexton, a senior adviser for Biggs, stated, “As Kamala Harris’ favorite Arizona mayor, Giles is aligned with Hobbs on all the issues that have hurt Arizonans the most over the past four years.” Sexton also suggested that Giles has leaned Democrat since voting for Joe Biden in 2020.
Giles, a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, provides Hobbs with a potential inroad to the 6% of Arizona residents who share this faith. While church members have historically supported Republicans, some have grown disenchanted with Trump, presenting an opportunity for Democratic outreach.
The choice of a former Republican as a running mate could enhance Hobbs’ bipartisan appeal but might also stir discontent among her Democratic base. Hobbs, however, maintains she operates with a nonpartisan mindset, stating, “It shouldn’t be a surprise” when asked about potential frustration from her supporters.
Arizona’s First Lieutenant Governor Election
Arizona, one of the five states without a lieutenant governor, will soon see this change. Voters decided in 2022 to establish the position to clarify the gubernatorial line of succession. Historically, succession has played a significant role in Arizona politics, with five governors since 1975 assuming office through succession rather than election.
Notably, only one of Arizona’s 12 governors in the past 50 years, Republican Doug Ducey, completed a full term after being elected. The others either succeeded to the office or left under extraordinary circumstances, including death, impeachment, and resignation following legal issues.
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