Andy Biggs Wins Arizona GOP Primary, Faces Katie Hobbs

Andy Biggs wins the Arizona GOP primary, setting up a governor race against Katie Hobbs in the 2026 election as both parties target this key battleground state.

By Sarah Mitchell – Senior Political Correspondent

Last Updated: July 22, 2026

Biggs Secures Republican Nomination

Republican Rep. Andy Biggs has won the Arizona GOP gubernatorial primary, securing the party’s nomination for a high-profile November election contest against Democratic incumbent Gov. Katie Hobbs. Biggs, a longtime conservative and close ally of former President Donald Trump, defeated fellow Republican Rep. David Schweikart and other challengers in a contest that highlighted the continuing power of Trump-aligned politics within the Republican Party.

Trump’s Influence in the Primary

With Trump’s support, Biggs entered the primary as the front-runner, consolidating support among Republican voters in Arizona. His campaign was focused on conservative priorities such as border security, government spending and opposition to Democratic policies. It’s another win for Trump-backed candidates, who have managed to survive competitive Republican primaries in the 2026 election cycle.

Arizona as a Key Battleground State

Arizona’s governor’s race is expected to be one of the most closely watched races of the 2026 election season. Arizona, a state that used to reliably vote Republican, has transformed into a competitive battleground with shifting demographics and voter coalitions, and its statewide elections have been closely divided, making it a key political target for both parties.

Shaping Trump Influence in Republican Primary

Former President Donald Trump’s dominance over GOP voters was on display in the Arizona Republican primary results. Biggs, a close ally of the Trump political movement, was buoyed by the strong support of conservative activists and voters who prioritized alignment with the former president’s agenda. Biggs previously chaired the conservative House Freedom Caucus and developed a national reputation through his stances on immigration, government spending and election issues. His campaign emphasized his record as a conservative legislator and cast him as a candidate who could further Republican agendas at the state level.

Challenges in the General Election

His biggest victory came amid worries from some Republicans that candidates closely linked to Trump's movement might face challenges in general elections, particularly in places such as Arizona where independents frequently make the call in statewide races. Biggs’ critics said his conservative stances could energize the Republican base but also could make it harder to appeal to moderate voters. The Republican primary also highlighted a wider rift in the party between candidates who push Trump-style populist conservatism and those who advocate a more traditional strategy aimed at broader electoral appeal.

Arizona Governor’s Race Turns into National Political Battleground

The race between Andy Biggs and Katie Hobbs for governor is expected to be one of the most competitive in the nation. Arizona has been playing a larger role in the political landscape of recent election cycles, with both parties spending heavily in the state because of its importance to national political power. Democrats are expected to use Biggs’ conservative voting record and ties to Trump in their effort to keep the governor’s office. Hobbs’ campaign is expected to focus on issues like defending democratic institutions, protecting abortion access and keeping state government stable. Republicans, meanwhile, see an opportunity to reclaim the governor’s mansion and bolster their standing in Arizona politics. GOP leaders say Biggs can appeal to voters worried about inflation, border security, housing costs and government spending.

Broader Impact on Arizona Politics

The key results in Arizona also changed the landscape in a number of congressional races outside the governor’s contest. The former president's influence with GOP voters was also reflected in another result: Trump-backed candidate Jay Feely won the Republican nomination for Arizona’s 1st Congressional District. Arizona is likely to remain a prime target for national political groups, donors and campaign strategists with the general election approaching. Biggs-Hobbs’ November showdown will be a critical test of voter priorities and the trajectory of one of America’s most politically consequential swing states.