Arizona GOP Faces Internal Struggles as Gubernatorial Race Heats Up
Outside an Arizona Republican meeting, a sign urging unity—”Let’s win not clash”—reflects the party’s internal discord. As gubernatorial candidates vie for support, the GOP faces a decade of ideological splits, losing ground to Democrats. Despite attempts to reclaim control, the party may once again endorse a hard-right candidate, a tactic that has faltered in recent statewide contests.
Former U.S. House Freedom Caucus chair and U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs leads the July primary race, buoyed by endorsements from President Donald Trump and Turning Point USA. In contrast, U.S. Rep. David Schweikert, known for his fiscal conservatism, consistently defeats Democrats in his affluent purple district. The primary victor will challenge Democratic incumbent Gov. Katie Hobbs, who previously bested Trump-supported Kari Lake.
Longtime consultant Paul Bentz suggests a shift in candidate preference is unlikely. “The folks that have bemoaned the takeover of the party… aren’t the folks that show up at the precinct committee meetings,” Bentz commented.
Trump’s Influence and Arizona’s Political Landscape
Arizona, historically pivotal for Republicans, has seen its party reshape under Trump’s influence despite mixed electoral success. Trump secured Arizona in 2016, lost in 2020, and reclaimed it in 2024. Yet, no Republican has since won a U.S. Senate seat or the governor’s office.
Karrin Taylor Robson, a developer aligned with the party’s pro-business faction, recently exited the primary. Her previous attempt to pivot as a Trump-aligned candidate failed against Lake. Despite Trump’s endorsements, Taylor Robson’s support was questioned by Republican voters like Anna Peto, who favored Biggs.
Biggs’ Appeal and Campaign Strategy
Biggs resonates with MAGA supporters. At a campaign event, attendee Marie Groves appreciated his stances on women’s sports and life issues. Biggs, emphasizing his experience, promised redistricting advantages and electoral reform, echoing his support for Trump’s 2020 election challenge. “My goal is to mobilize everybody,” Biggs stated, highlighting support from Turning Point USA, led by Erika Kirk.
Kendall Brittingham, a voter, underscored the importance of Biggs’ endorsement by Kirk’s late husband, Charlie, over Trump’s.
Schweikert’s Pragmatic Campaign Approach
Schweikert eschews Trump’s endorsement, believing it’s unnecessary. “Even some of the Biggs people… know he can’t win the general election,” he asserted. Schweikert pitches his economic expertise, crucial for addressing inflation’s impact on populist voters. Supporter Brian Symes backs Schweikert, viewing him as a unifying force. “I think it would be very tough for Andy to win,” Symes remarked.
