Arizona’s Political Landscape Shifts as Hobbs and Giles Forge Unlikely Alliance
In a move that bridges the political divide in Arizona, Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs has chosen John Giles, a former Republican and now independent, as her running mate. This decision signals an effort to unite diverse voter groups under a common vision for the state.
“We come from different political parties, but we share the belief that leadership is about bringing people together, delivering results, and doing what’s right for Arizona, not playing partisan political games,” Hobbs stated during a recent campaign event in Mesa.
Despite their different political backgrounds, Hobbs and Giles align closely on significant issues. Giles, previously the mayor of Mesa, noted, “Well, like I said, remarkably little or nothing, because we’re focused on these nonpartisan agenda items, transportation, education.” He emphasized the shared approach to Arizona’s challenges, saying there’s no need for a partisan stance on such matters.
Aligning on Key Issues
On contentious topics like abortion rights and the state’s voucher system, both leaders stand united. The Empowerment Scholarship Accounts, which expanded voucher eligibility statewide, remains a hotly debated issue. Enrollment has surged to over 100,000 students, costing more than $1 billion annually amid reports of misuse of funds.
Giles supports Hobbs’ call for stricter regulations on the program and advocates for increased funding for public schools. “School choice — that toothpaste is out of the tube,” he remarked. “We’re going to continue to support school choice, but for it to be meaningful, that means public education has to have the resources that it needs to compete.”
Abortion rights also form a core part of their platform. Hobbs insists that reproductive freedom is “100% a non-negotiable,” a sentiment echoed by Giles, who supports Proposition 139. Passed with 62% of the vote in 2024, this measure enshrines abortion protections in the state Constitution.
Addressing Social Issues
Both Hobbs and Giles oppose efforts to regulate bathroom use by transgender individuals, with Giles having previously supported a non-discrimination ordinance in Mesa. He dismisses such legislation as a “red herring,” underscoring his commitment to non-discrimination.
Political Strategy and Challenges
The decision to partner with Giles is strategic, aimed at appealing to Arizona’s diverse electorate, where independents constitute over a third of voters. However, Congressman Andy Biggs, the Republican nominee for governor, criticized Giles for his past endorsements of Democratic figures such as Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.
Giles, a lifelong Republican until recently, argues that many current and former GOP voters share his disillusionment with the party’s direction. “It means we share a lot of priorities; that I identify with them,” he stated, referring to fellow Republicans feeling left behind.
At a campaign event, Giles described the Republican focus on divisive issues, like claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election, as increasingly isolating. “When it came time to defend our democracy, Andy Biggs voted to put your votes in the toilet,” he told supporters, referencing Biggs’ stance on the election results.
Hobbs and Giles prioritize common ground issues such as water, education, and economic development, insisting these require shared solutions rather than partisan approaches.
While Hobbs and Giles have chosen not to debate their opponents, including Biggs and his running mate Sine Kerr, they focus on engaging directly with voters throughout Arizona. Hobbs remarked on her campaign strategy, highlighting over 100 open press events this year and questioning the reach of televised debates.
Biggs, along with Green Party candidate Risa Lombardo and No Labels candidate Teri Hourihan, has agreed to participate in a scheduled debate hosted by the Arizona Citizens Clean Elections Commission.
