Trump-Backed Candidates Steamroll AZ Primaries, Setting Up November Showdown

President Donald Trump’s endorsed candidates swept Arizona’s Republican primary elections Tuesday, securing nominations across statewide and congressional races ahead of the November midterms.

The victories demonstrate Trump’s continued influence within the GOP as Republicans prepare for competitive general election matchups. Trump-backed candidates won races for governor, U.S. House seats, and other state offices, with all nominees pledging to align with Trump’s policy priorities.

Governor’s Race and Congressional Wins

U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs, endorsed by Trump, won the Republican gubernatorial nomination by a significant margin, defeating fellow Rep. David Schweikert and other challengers. Biggs will face Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs, who won her party’s nomination unopposed and defeated Trump-backed Kari Lake in 2022.

“I hate to lose him from Congress… but he’ll be a great governor,” Trump said at a Phoenix rally. Biggs, a former Freedom Caucus chairman, campaigned on tax cuts, border security, and law enforcement priorities.

In Arizona’s 1st Congressional District, former Arizona Cardinals kicker Jay Feely secured the GOP nomination with Trump’s backing. Feely will compete against Democrat Amish Shah in the competitive suburban seat that spans parts of Scottsdale and northeastern Maricopa County.

Trump called Feely an “America First” candidate in a Truth Social post. Feely’s campaign focused on border security, economic growth, and supporting Arizona families.

Additional Republican Victories

Former Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb won the Republican primary in Arizona’s 5th Congressional District, vacated by Biggs. Trump described Lamb as a “MAGA Warrior” and promised, “Mark Lamb has my Complete and Total Endorsement.”

Lamb campaigned on tough-on-crime policies, border security, tax cuts, and support for law enforcement and veterans. Trump-endorsed incumbent Rep. Juan Ciscomani advanced unopposed in the 6th District, while Reps. Eli Crane, Paul Gosar, and Abe Hamadeh also received Trump’s endorsement.

Democratic Contests and Broader Implications

On the Democratic side, Hobbs secured renomination while progressive challengers tested some House incumbents. Rep. Greg Stanton defeated a far-left challenger in the 4th District, keeping the race focused on general election dynamics.

The primary results reflect Republican unity around Trump-aligned candidates prioritizing border security, government reduction, and election integrity. Arizona remains a critical battleground state, and a Biggs victory in November would return the governor’s office to Republican control.

Political analysts view the outcomes as an early indicator of party strength in the Sun Belt ahead of the midterms. Biggs and other GOP nominees have pledged coordination with the Trump administration on core conservative priorities.

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