Arizona GOP primary crowns Biggs front‑runner

In June 2026 the GOP‑controlled Arizona Legislature approved a $1.45 billion tax cut, setting the stage for the 2026 Republican primary for governor. Republican U.S. Representatives Andy Biggs and David Schweikert emerged as the leading contenders, with Biggs touting a former President Donald Trump endorsement and a sizable poll lead. By mid‑July, polling showed Biggs expanding his advantage to roughly a 50‑point margin over Schweikert.

The July 19 primary pitted the hard‑line Freedom Caucus leader Biggs, backed by Trump and Turning Point Action, against Schweikert, a longtime legislator who advocates a less extreme, independent‑friendly Republican approach and highlights his record of winning with independents. Both candidates criticized each other's tactics while seeking to define the party’s future in a state where Democrats hold both Senate seats and the top three statewide offices.

Election night results confirmed Biggs as the clear front‑runner, with prediction‑market odds near 100 % and polls showing a decisive lead over Schweikert and other challengers. Early voting had begun on June 24, and the outcome positions Biggs to face incumbent Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs in the November general election, a contest viewed as pivotal for the party ahead of the 2026 midterms and the 2028 presidential cycle.