Azra is one of the most politically competitive states in the country, with razor-thin margins in both the presidential and state-level elections. The state’s upcoming election for governor is no different, as the Republican primary for the state’s next governor is rapidly becoming a major story. Rep. David Schweikert, R-Ariz., is now considering a run for governor, which could further complicate what is already an unusually chaotic race.
Already in the race are Rep. Andy Biggs and businesswoman Karrin Taylor Robson, who both have the endorsement of former President Donald Trump. The current state governor, Democratic Katie Hobbs, was elected in 2022 in a closely contested race against Republican Kari Lake, who lost by a narrow margin. The current race for the Republican nomination is shaping up to be another high-stakes contest, with multiple potential candidates vying for the nomination.
Schweikert’s potential candidacy is already raising questions about the state of the Arizona GOP’s ability to cohesively field candidates who can effectively challenge the current Democratic governor. The stakes are particularly high, as the state’s current governor is considered a formidable opponent who has managed to maintain momentum in the polls even with the state’s deep conservative roots.
Despite the competition from Schweikert, the race has been further complicated by the already entrenched candidates, particularly Robson, who has been endorsed by Trump and is seen as a strong contender. The potential addition of Schweikert could further increase the field, making the race even more unpredictable and potentially more expensive as the state’s candidates prepare for the upcoming general election.