Arizona’s Upcoming Election: Debates Take a Backseat
As the November general election approaches in Arizona, voters will not witness a debate between candidates Katie Hobbs and Andy Biggs. Instead of participating in traditional debate settings, Hobbs has decided to engage with voters directly across the state.
Nicole DeMont, Hobbs’ campaign manager, stated, “Face-to-face engagement with Arizonans is more effective than a stage designed for short soundbites and political theater.” Rather than debating, Hobbs has embarked on her Arizona First Tour, which involves meeting with select groups to discuss state issues.
While some of these meetings have been pre-arranged with invited participants, Hobbs’ press aide, Michael Beyer, emphasized that several events were open to the public. These include discussions with local business owners about tariffs, a tour with farmer Ed Curry on water security, and a nostalgic visit to a Burger King where Hobbs once worked, celebrating National Drive-Thru Day.
Hobbs’ decision to forgo debates isn’t entirely unexpected. The last time she participated in one was during her 2018 run for secretary of state. Since then, she has opted out of debates against primary and general election opponents, including former Nogales Mayor Marco Lopez and Republican Kari Lake.
Despite leading in polls, Hobbs has not yet secured majority support, and a significant portion of Arizona’s electorate remains unaffiliated with the major parties. Drew Sexton, an advisor to Biggs’ campaign, highlighted the importance of traditional debates for independent and persuadable voters. Sexton noted that debates have been a staple in Arizona since 1954, only disrupted in recent elections.
Interestingly, Biggs himself did not engage in debates during his 2022 and 2024 congressional reelection bids. Sexton defended this by distinguishing between congressional and statewide debates, noting the latter’s broader voter reach. He confirmed Biggs’ intent to participate in an upcoming debate organized by the Citizens Clean Elections Commission on October 6, though it remains uncertain who will join him on stage.
Two other candidates, Teri Ann Hourihan from the No Labels Party and Risa Lombardo from the Green Party, have secured their primary victories. However, Tom Collins, the commission’s executive director, has yet to determine their participation in the debate.
DeMont’s critique of Biggs continued in her statement, accusing him of avoiding accountability for his record and controversial decisions, like quashing a bill against the police department of Colorado City linked to the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Sexton countered with allegations against Hobbs, mentioning an investigation into her ties to a significant donor and a failed attempt to recruit Jimmy McCain as her lieutenant governor.
