Arizona governor’s race impacts 2028 certification fight

The certification of Arizona’s 2020 presidential election results marked a significant moment in the state's political landscape, particularly for Governor Doug Ducey, who received a call from then-President Donald Trump during the ceremony. Ducey, a Republican, ultimately signed the certification despite Trump’s attempts to persuade him not to. This incident has resurfaced in the current political climate as Katie Hobbs, who succeeded Ducey as governor, faces a challenge from Republican Rep. Andy Biggs, a staunch Trump supporter and election denier. Hobbs has raised concerns about Biggs potentially responding similarly to Trump’s call in 2028, should he win the governorship.

Biggs, who has a history of attempting to overturn the 2020 election results, is running against Hobbs in an election where the stakes are high for the future of Arizona’s electoral integrity. He has previously supported lawsuits to invalidate Biden's victories in key battleground states and voted against certifying electoral votes on January 6, 2021. Despite his controversial past, Biggs has downplayed the 2020 election narrative in his current campaign, focusing instead on attacking Hobbs. His reluctance to address the legitimacy of Biden’s win has been noted, with a spokesperson stating that Biggs is concentrating on Hobbs rather than the past election.

The Republican Party in Arizona has increasingly embraced election denialism, as evidenced by the nomination of candidates who align with Trump’s narrative, including Alex Kolodin for secretary of state and Warren Petersen for attorney general. Kolodin, who has promoted unfounded claims of election fraud, previously attempted to sue election officials over ballot issues. This trend raises concerns about the potential for further erosion of trust in the electoral process if Biggs and other election deniers are elected to key positions.

Hobbs is positioning herself as a bulwark against this trend, emphasizing the importance of electing officials committed to upholding democratic principles. She has been vocal about the implications of a Biggs governorship, suggesting that Arizona could become a testing ground for election denialism. While Hobbs has outspent Biggs significantly in campaign funding, the effectiveness of her messaging remains to be seen, especially as she navigates a political landscape where many Republicans remain loyal to Trump and his unfounded claims about the 2020 election.

As the election approaches, the dynamics within Arizona’s Republican Party are shifting, with moderates feeling increasingly alienated. Former Republican John Giles, now an independent, has noted the party's transformation and its departure from the inclusive values he once associated with it. This reflects a broader sentiment among some voters who are seeking candidates focused on solutions rather than divisive partisan politics. The outcome of the upcoming election will not only determine the next governor but also set the tone for Arizona’s political future as it grapples with the legacy of the 2020 election and its implications for democracy.