Former Republican Mesa Mayor Endorses Katie Hobbs for Governor, Citing Qualifications and Focus

A former Republican Mayor of Mesa has endorsed a Democrat for governor, and it's the latest sign that Katie Hobbs' (D-AZ) reelection bid is drawing support well beyond her own party.

Mayor John Giles (R-AZ), who leads Arizona's third-largest city, announced his backing for the Democratic incumbent this week, calling her the stronger candidate in the race.

"It's pretty clear to me that Katie Hobbs is a better candidate," Giles said in a press conference. "Katie Hobbs is more qualified; she's focused on the issues."

The endorsement is the latest in a string of Republican voices backing Hobbs. Last weekend, Giles and Hobbs appeared together alongside former Republican state legislators and Arizona business leaders who publicly voiced their support, a show of cross-party backing that has become a recurring feature of her campaign.

Current Projections

The bipartisan support comes as electoral forecasters give Hobbs a significant advantage heading into the fall. Current projections put her chances of winning at roughly 79%, with a projected margin of victory of about 7.5 points over Republican challenger Andy Biggs (R-AZ).

The race is rated "Lean D," and Hobbs has maintained a consistent lead in the forecasting data dating back to May 2025 as reported by Race to the WH.

Behind those numbers, head-to-head polling gives Hobbs a 4.2-point edge, with fundraising, past electoral experience, and the national political environment each adding to her advantage.

For Hobbs, the Giles endorsement fits into a broader campaign narrative centered on governing across party lines.

The Democratic Governors Association noted that support from Republicans, Democrats, and Independents reflects confidence in her ability to lead the whole state.

However, it is worth noting that forecasts are not guaranteed. Arizona has a history of competitive and unpredictable elections, and the Republican primary has yet to be settled, an outcome that could still affect how the general election shapes up.

As of early July, however, the forecast points to Hobbs entering the general election season as the clear favorite.