TL/DR –
Democrats are urging Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes to run against Governor Katie Hobbs in 2026, fearing that Hobbs may not fare well against a strong Republican candidate. Hobbs, a liberal governor in a predominantly Republican state, is already facing scrutiny over her stance on President-elect Donald Trump’s mass deportation plan. Fontes, viewed as more moderate than Hobbs, is reportedly “receptive” to the idea of running for governor, but some Democrats believe this is unlikely as the party typically avoids costly and contentious primary contests.
Adrian Fontes may run against Gov. Katie Hobbs in 2026
Democrats are reportedly urging Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes to run against Gov. Katie Hobbs in the upcoming 2026 elections. Katie Hobbs is facing criticism as a liberal governor in a state that is predominantly Republican.
There are concerns about her response to President-elect Donald Trump’s mass deportation plan. Democrats fear that Hobbs won’t fare well if there’s a strong Republican candidate in 2026.
Democrats appeal to Fontes for Governorship
Politico reports that Democrats have been privately urging Fontes to run against Hobbs and that he’s “receptive” to the idea. Fontes, who appears more moderate than either Hobbs or Mayes, has not yet confirmed his candidacy.
Speculations on Democratic primary
It’s rare for Democrats to challenge each other in primaries. Ruben Gallego, for instance, cleared the way for Mark Kelly in the 2020 Senate run. Hobbs also had no serious competition in 2022. Fontes, however, told The Arizona Republic’s Stacey Barchenger that he’s “seriously considering every option.”
Potential competitors for Hobbs
While Fontes may be a potential contender, Democrats also point to Attorney General Kris Mayes as a potential candidate. Mayes has often acted more like the governor than the governor herself. The likelihood of a Hobbs vs. Fontes run, however, is still in question.
—
Read More US Media News