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In a significant display of political muscle, Arizona’s Republican primaries have underscored former President Donald Trump’s continuing dominance within the party. The elections, held on July 21, 2026, saw the rise of a former NFL kicker in a pivotal House race, a staunch Trump supporter vying for the governorship, and an election denier aiming for the state’s top elections role. Meanwhile, moderate Democrats managed to fend off leftist challengers in a contest that revealed stark contrasts within the party.
Trump’s Candidates Prevail
The primaries showcased a slate of candidates closely aligned with Trump’s ideology. Jay Feely, a former NFL kicker endorsed by Trump, emerged victorious in a crucial House district that encompasses Scottsdale and parts of Phoenix. Initially planning to contest in a more conservative area, Feely shifted his focus to the First Congressional District at Trump’s urging, a decision buoyed by the anticipation of a fiercely competitive race ahead.
Feely’s win was not without its challenges; he faced tough opposition from Joseph Chaplik, a former state lawmaker who ran a campaign to his right. The race descended into a series of contentious exchanges, including cease-and-desist letters and aggressive attack ads. Nevertheless, Feely’s gratitude for Trump’s backing was evident, although he quickly pivoted the focus to broader issues. “This race will be about the economy and who will best represent this district,” he stated post-election.
Governor’s Race: A Showdown of Loyalties
In the governor’s race, Representative Andy Biggs, buoyed by Trump’s endorsement, decisively defeated fellow congressman David Schweikert. Biggs, a prominent figure in the House Freedom Caucus, had a commanding lead in polls, allowing him to shift his attention towards the general election well ahead of the primary. He actively downplayed his controversial vote aimed at overturning the 2020 presidential election results, opting instead to emphasise his bipartisan approach.
Facing Biggs in the general election will be Governor Katie Hobbs, a moderate Democrat who previously triumphed over a far-right opponent, Kari Lake. Hobbs, unchallenged in her own primary, will aim to rally support against Biggs’ hardline stance.
Scandal Doesn’t Derail Lamb’s Ambitions
Mark Lamb, a former sheriff endorsed by Trump, secured a comfortable victory in the primary to replace Biggs, despite facing allegations of sexual impropriety. Reported accusations included sending inappropriate messages to women and threatening legal action against those who might speak out. Lamb’s campaign dismissed the claims as fabrications, and he emerged victorious, demonstrating the party’s willingness to support candidates with controversial backgrounds if they align with Trump’s agenda.
Election Denier Advances
Alexander Kolodin, a lawyer who has been vocal in disputing the 2020 election results, won the Republican primary for Arizona Secretary of State. Kolodin, who was previously penalised by the Arizona state bar for his role in challenging the election outcome, stands one step away from overseeing the very process he sought to undermine. His victory over Gina Swoboda, a more centrist candidate, illustrates the party’s pivot towards hardline positions on election integrity.
Kolodin’s campaign benefitted from support by Turning Point USA, emphasising the significant backing from conservative grassroots movements. The upcoming general election will see him face incumbent Adrian Fontes, a Democrat who also faced a vocal election denier in the previous cycle.
Democratic Resilience Amidst Challenges
On the Democratic side, Representative Greg Stanton successfully defended his position against Kai Newkirk, a self-identified democratic socialist. Stanton’s decisive victory reflects the district’s preference for centrist representation, despite Newkirk’s attempts to position the race as a critical battle for the party’s future. Voters in Stanton’s suburban Phoenix district opted for the stability embodied by their incumbent, signalling a potential setback for the progressive wing.
In another notable race, JoAnna Mendoza, a Democratic challenger with a compelling personal story, is set to face off against vulnerable Republican incumbent Juan Ciscomani in a highly competitive general election. Mendoza’s background as a Marine Corps drill instructor and her Mexican American heritage resonate in a district with significant Hispanic demographics.
Why it Matters
The Arizona primaries serve as a litmus test for the Republican Party’s trajectory heading into the November elections. With Trump’s loyalists clinching key nominations, the GOP appears poised to maintain a hardline stance that could galvanise both support and opposition among voters. For Democrats, the results highlight a complex balancing act between moderates and progressives, with implications that could shape the party’s strategy in critical swing states. As the political landscape shifts, the outcomes in Arizona will undoubtedly reverberate across the nation, marking a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the general election.
