(The Center Square) – Arizona Congressman Andy Biggs filed a statement of interest to run in the Republican gubernatorial primary in 2026.
“Arizona has a bright future but will need strong leadership to reach its full potential,” Biggs said in a statement posted to X on Tuesday.
“I have been honored to serve Arizona at the state and federal levels and will bring my experience home to my native state to help it fulfill its tremendous capacity. I have a firm understanding of what the state needs to thrive. I look forward to conversing with my fellow Arizonans as I consider this weighty decision.”
If he decides to run, he will likely be facing off against Karrin Taylor Robson, who narrowly lost to Kari Lake in the 2022 gubernatorial primary. She has yet to officially announce a campaign, but President Donald Trump said at a Turning Point USA conference in December that he would support her if she opts to run.
”You have a governor who doesn’t know what the hell she’s doing,” Trump said of Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs. Shortly after his comments, Taylor Robson thanked him for the support.
“President [Donald Trump] is a president for all Americans. I am beyond honored to have his support. Thank you Mr. President for everything you do for our country and for the great State of Arizona,” Taylor Robson tweeted at the time is regards to Trump’s comments.
Whoever succeeds will likely face off against Hobbs in the general election, unless a primary challenger emerges and successfully defeats her.
As for Biggs, he currently represents a safely Republican East Valley district, and a decision to jump into the governor race could trigger a competitive primary for his seat. The congressman was one of the House Freedom Caucus members who led the charge to remove former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in 2023.