Aug 18, 2025 - News

Schweikert may join GOP primary for 2026 Arizona governor's race

Jeremy Duda

David Schweikert in a dark suit and blue shirt, resting his chin on his hand, standing in an elegant hallway with ornate columns and warm lighting. — U.S. Rep. David Schweikert is considering jumping into the Republican primary for governor. Photo: Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call

U.S. Rep. David Schweikert is considering a run for Arizona governor, a move that would dramatically shake up the race for the Republican nomination next year.

State of play: Schweikert hasn't made a final decision, his longtime campaign consultant Chris Baker told Axios Monday, adding Schweikert, in his eighth U.S. House term, has been asked to run "by several prominent Arizona Republicans who are concerned with the current field of candidates."

Schweikert is expected to make a decision by the end of the month, Baker said.
Baker's comments came in response to a post on X by Punchbowl News reporter John Bresnahan writing that Schweikert was considering a run.

The big picture: U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs and businessperson Karrin Taylor Robson are already battling for the nomination in the 2026 race, in which Republicans hope to unseat Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs.

President Trump has endorsed both GOP candidates.

The intrigue: If Schweikert runs for governor, Republicans will be in search of a candidate in Arizona's highly competitive 1st Congressional District — a top target for Democrats in next year's election.

Numerous Democrats are already running in that race including 2024 contenders Marlene Galán-Woods and Amish Shah, as well as Mark Robert Gordon, Rick McCartney and Jonathan Treble.
The district covers much of Scottsdale, north Phoenix, Paradise Valley and Fountain Hills.

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Schweikert may join GOP primary for 2026 Arizona governor's race

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