Governor Katie Hobbs Announces Reelection Campaign

Governor Katie Hobbs officially announced this week that she's running for a second term in 2026, setting up what promises to be one of the most competitive races in state history.

"Your stories of hard work, hope, and determination inspire me to keep moving our state forward," she said in a campaign video. "I'm ready to serve you for 4 more years and always put your family first. Let's get to work."

Katie Hobbs highlighted several economic successes during her tenure in office. She has helped attract significant investments from companies like TSMC, Intel, and LG Energy Solution. 

Regarding water issues, she canceled groundwater leases tied to a Saudi-owned farm that had violated the terms. She signed legislation, including the “Ag‑to‑Urban” program aimed at conserving groundwater while allowing some farmland to convert to housing and urban development. 

Hobbs has also backed bipartisan water bills to strengthen groundwater protections and is active in the ongoing Colorado River negotiations.

Campaign Candidates

The Republican primary for Arizona governor has three candidates in Rep. Andy Biggs, a five-term congressman and former state senator with deep political experience; businesswoman Karrin Taylor Robson, who narrowly lost the 2022 GOP primary and returns with substantial financial support; and Rep. David Schweikert, a late entry to the race who brings 14 years of congressional experience but is just beginning to build his campaign while the others have already established strong bases.

Representative Andy Biggs stated, "Under Katie Hobbs, Arizona has plummeted to 47th in job growth while our communities became less safe and hundreds of law enforcement jobs remain unfilled. Arizona cannot afford another four years of Katie Hobbs."

Cactus Politics received a statement from Karrin Taylor Robson offering similar criticism. "Katie Hobbs has been an utter disaster for Arizona," she expressed. "Instead of working with President Trump, Hobbs has fought against his America First agenda at every turn. She is more interested in turning Arizona into California than making our state stronger, safer, and more affordable for hardworking Arizonans."

Both Republican candidates have received President Donald Trump's endorsement, creating an unusual primary dynamic where neither can use his backing as a distinguishing factor.

With her reelection campaign now underway, Hobbs will seek to build support on her administration's record while Republican candidates compete to challenge her in the general election. 

Arizona voters will ultimately decide which vision for the state's future they prefer in November 2026.