The political landscape in Arizona is heating up as the state holds its primaries, offering insight into voter sentiment in this critical swing state. Here, the Republican party holds a slight edge over independents and Democrats, with the state backing President Trump in 2024, yet electing a Democratic governor two years prior.
As the Republicans aim to reclaim the governor’s office, the Democrats are setting their sights on securing additional seats in the U.S. House. This could potentially alter the balance of power currently held by the GOP, with the White House party historically losing seats during midterms.
Key races in the primaries may hinge on the endorsements of President Trump or the backing of Turning Point USA, a conservative group founded by the late Charlie Kirk, an Arizona resident.
Democrats Eyeing a Competitive House District
Arizona’s 1st Congressional District, one of the few “toss-up” seats in the nation according to the Cook Political Report, is drawing significant attention. Republican Rep. David Schweikert, the current representative, is not seeking reelection as he pursues a gubernatorial bid.
In the Democratic primary, former state lawmaker Amish Shah and Marlene Galán-Woods, a former journalist, are the leading contenders. Shah previously defeated Galán-Woods in the primary but lost to Schweikert in the general election. Galán-Woods, who switched from the Republican party in 2018, has gained the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee’s endorsement.
Republicans are witnessing a contest between a Trump-endorsed candidate, former NFL kicker Jay Feely, and Joseph Chaplik, a former state lawmaker known for his right-wing stance.
Arizona’s 6th District, held by Republican Rep. Juan Ciscomani, will also be a battleground. Ciscomani won reelection with a narrow majority, and he will face unopposed Democrat JoAnna Mendoza, a military veteran, in November.
Republican Ambitions to Reclaim the Governor’s Seat
Governor Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, is seeking reelection in a state that supported Trump in the 2024 presidential election. Within the Republican primary, Rep. Andy Biggs, endorsed by Trump and Turning Point Action, is a prominent figure. Known for opposing the certification of the 2020 election, Biggs is attempting to appeal to the state’s independent voters.
Biggs faces competition from fellow Republican Rep. Schweikert. Governor Hobbs narrowly won against Republican Kari Lake in 2022 and awaits the Republican nominee.
Secretary of State Race and Election Integrity
Arizona’s Secretary of State, Democrat Adrian Fontes, is unchallenged in the primaries. The state has been a focal point for election law debates since the 2020 election, which Trump contested as fraudulent.
Two Republicans are vying to oppose Fontes: State Rep. Alexander Kolodin, involved in lawsuits challenging the 2020 election, and Gina Swoboda, who has Trump’s endorsement but has not fully embraced claims of a stolen election.
Camryn Sanchez of KJZZ in Phoenix contributed to this story.
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