The Arizona Republican gubernatorial primary is heating up early, with campaign activity already underway for the August 2026 election. Turning Point PAC has officially launched a significant $500,000 advertising campaign supporting Rep. Andy Biggs. The media buy will focus on diverse platforms, including cable TV, radio, and digital avenues, specifically targeting Arizona voters over the next 3.5 weeks. Biggs, who has been characterized as a strong ally of former President Trump, is presenting himself as a favorable candidate, with endorsements from Trump himself, as well as from conservative figures like Charlie Kirk.
In a recent statement, Tyler Bowyer, the COO of Turning Point Action and Turning Point PAC, highlighted Biggs’s prior achievements as the Arizona Senate President and underscored his close relationship with Trump. Bowyer expressed enthusiasm for the growing grassroots support that Biggs’s campaign is garnering, indicating that the momentum is building effectively even this early in the race. This sentiment was echoed by Kirk, who noted the remarkable turnout at a recent rally in Phoenix, asserting that such enthusiasm was indicative of a strong backing for Biggs as a future governor.
The competitive landscape of the primary also includes Karrin Taylor Robson, a businesswoman and previous candidate for the governorship who lost in 2022. Robson’s campaign is reportedly equally aggressive in its outreach, with claims of a multi-million-dollar ad buy already in play to promote her candidacy and Trump’s endorsement. Robson has positioned herself as focused on addressing issues such as border security and economic stability in Arizona, framing her campaign as a direct response to the policies of current Governor Katie Hobbs.
Complicating the dynamics is Trump’s dual endorsement of both candidates, Biggs and Robson, which he announced via a Truth Social post. Trump recognized each as capable leaders and highlighted the challenge of choosing between two impressive candidates. This unique situation puts both Biggs and Robson in a favorable light at the same time, leading to an intriguing primary race as both seek the Republican nomination to face off against Democratic Governor Hobbs.
The overall competitive nature of this gubernatorial race is further emphasized by the state’s status as a vital swing state. The Cook Political Report identifies the upcoming contest as essentially a toss-up, underscoring the significance of the primary for both candidates. Arizona’s political landscape has garnered national attention due to its critical role in past elections, and that prominence continues as candidates ramp up their efforts to connect with voters.
As these early moves in the election cycle unfold, the strategies employed by Biggs and Robson will be key in shaping the Republican narrative leading into the primary. The significant advertising buys and endorsements reflect broader trends in political campaigning, where establishing early visibility and grassroots support can make a substantial difference in outcomes. The excitement around Biggs’s campaign contrasts with Robson’s experienced approach, setting the stage for what promises to be a dynamic electoral battle in Arizona over the next year.