Arizonans are used to election drama, whether it's recounts, lawsuits or personal threats. The 2026 midterms isn't without its bit of theatre, as well.
Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs has blanketed televisions and cellphones with ads for a long time leading up to November. Her opponent, Congressman Andy Biggs, has joined in the dance and has his own ads up now, too. The message, as usual, is rarely uplifting.
Accusations of protecting pedophiles and choosing predators over Arizona families are flying almost every time you turn on your TV as we get closer to Election Day. But these aren't the only attack ads on the air. Hobbs' and Biggs' record on affordability, water policy, immigration and more are under the microscope as well.
So what is really on
the line with this race?
This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, hosts Ron Hansen and Stephanie Murray are joined by Republic reporter Stacey Barchenger to analyze possibly the biggest race in Arizona this year. She talks us through their plan if elected, how having a running mate plays a role, where big money is coming in from and any wildcards that could shake up the race.
Listen to the episode
The best way to listen is to subscribe to The Gaggle in your favorite podcast app, but you can also stream the full episode below.
Note: The Gaggle is intended to be heard. But we also offer an AI transcript of the episode. There may be slight deviations from the podcast audio.
Have a question or comment about Arizona politics?
You can share your thoughts with us by calling 602-444-0804 or emailing us.
Reach producer Amanda Luberto at amanda.luberto@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X @amandaluberto.
Catch up on previous Gaggle episodes here
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: What your vote for governor would really mean for Arizona's future
