Rep. Andy Biggs, endorsed by Trump, has secured victory in the GOP primary, paving the way for a showdown with Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs this November in a pivotal governor’s race in one of the nation’s most competitive political landscapes.
Biggs, previously leading the House Freedom Caucus and a strong Trump ally, swiftly overcame his main competitor, Rep. David Schweikert, on Tuesday. Even before the primary results were finalized, Biggs began shifting his focus to the general election against Hobbs, viewed as one of the Democratic governors most at risk this fall.
Republicans are optimistic about their chances to seize the governorship, buoyed by Trump’s five-point victory in the state during the 2024 election. However, despite Trump’s past success, Arizona’s political climate has increasingly moved toward a more balanced and unpredictable state, electing Democrats to both Senate positions and key state offices like attorney general and secretary of state.
Hobbs has also redirected her attention toward Biggs. Her campaign has gathered a substantial financial reserve for the campaign and has launched advertisements. With minimal primary competition, Biggs has managed to retain more funds compared to his GOP rivals, although he still trails Hobbs in this aspect.
This election will examine if Republicans, amid a potentially challenging midterm cycle, can recapture the governorship in a state where the party has historically found success.
During the Republican primary debate, Biggs emphasized his collaborative efforts with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, rather than focusing on his Trump endorsement or his House accomplishments, including his leadership of the Freedom Caucus. He aimed to highlight his bipartisan approach in Congress and his legislative leadership.
“I know how to reach across the aisle,” Biggs stated during the debate.
Nevertheless, he must address his previous positions, such as his involvement in efforts to overturn the 2020 election.
Meanwhile, Hobbs is actively working to highlight Biggs’ stances on key issues, including his anti-abortion views and his 2020 election role. Her campaign has consistently labeled him as “too extreme” for Arizona and referred to him as “basement Biggs” for maintaining a low profile throughout the GOP primary.
