State of the State Sparks Heated Response from Gubernatorial Candidates

Governor Katie Hobbs (D-AZ) delivered her State of the State address on Monday, proposing major tax cuts and initiatives, sparking criticism from Republican gubernatorial candidates planning to unseat her in the upcoming election.

During her speech, Gov. Hobbs called for lawmakers to pass her Middle Class Tax Cuts Package immediately. "Put it on my desk. I'll sign it," Hobbs declared, promising over $200 million in tax relief through increased standard deductions, cuts on overtime and tips, and help for seniors.

Making the issue personal, Hobbs referenced her own financial struggles. "I understand how it feels to work hard every day only to come up short on the bills at the end of the month – because I lived it," she said.

Hobbs continued by defending residents, stating: "If you think billionaires and big corporations should get a tax break before hardworking families – then you need to spend more time with real Arizonans who are struggling to get by."

Candidate Responses

However, her conservative candidates weren't impressed.

Karrin Taylor Robson (R-AZ) accused Hobbs of election-year posturing. "Now that it's an election year, career politician Katie Hobbs is trying to paint herself as a moderate," Robson said.

She then criticized the governor's handling of the border, education, and housing, claiming Hobbs "halted construction, created uncertainty for builders, and drove prices even higher."

"Arizona deserves better. It's time to fire career politician Katie Hobbs," she concluded.

Additionally, David Schweikert (R-AZ) focused on fiscal concerns, warning of a "$300 million-plus deficit coming." He accused Hobbs of taking "a victory lap" while "leadership treats basic planning like an afterthought."

Schweikert promised a different approach: "I am running to get [government] under control. Cut job-killing regulations. Keep taxes down."

Andy Biggs (R-AZ) curated a list highlighting vetoed bills and claiming Arizona ranked "47th in job growth in 1st half of 2025." His list included vetoes on grocery tax bans, public safety bills, and rural groundwater management.

Like his opponents, Biggs concluded, "Let's fire Katie Hobbs."

With Hobbs defending her record while three Republicans argue Arizona needs new leadership, the election season is heating up.