PHOENIX — President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs for the upcoming Republican primary for Arizona governor, complementing his earlier endorsement of housing developer Karrin Taylor Robson. This endorsement occurred despite previous backing for Robson that left some of Trump’s Arizona allies uneasy, as they felt Robson represented the state’s traditional Republican business faction, in contrast to Trump’s core supporters.
Biggs, a former chair of the hard-right Freedom Caucus in the U.S. House and ex-state Senate president, has been a loyal Trump ally. He has openly backed the unfounded claims that the 2020 election was fraudulent. His congressional district, characterized by its conservative voters from areas like Queen Creek and Gilbert, aligns well with the grassroots of the party. Known for his maverick stances, Biggs has even challenged party leadership, such as participating in the move that removed Kevin McCarthy from his role as House Speaker in 2023.
Expressing his dilemma over supporting two “fantastic candidates,” Trump announced on Truth Social that he had decided to endorse both candidates fully.
In the previous 2022 gubernatorial contest, Robson aligned herself with Arizona’s traditional conservative figures, such as former Gov. Doug Ducey and former Vice President Mike Pence, who were not on favorable terms with Trump. Trump, at that time, campaigned for Kari Lake, who subsequently won the Republican primary but lost in the general election to Democrat Katie Hobbs. This election cycle, Robson aims to solidify her connection with Trump and vigorously promotes herself as his endorsed candidate.
Following Trump’s announcement, Robson expressed her gratitude and affirmed her commitment to being a key supporter of Trump’s conservative and America First policies if elected governor.
Sean Noble, a consultant for Biggs’ campaign, welcomed Trump’s endorsement but noted that it was more of a formality given Trump’s previous support for Robson. He also questioned Robson’s continued participation in the race, considering that Trump’s endorsement was central to her campaign.
Trump has a history of endorsing multiple candidates in the same race. Since 2017, similar instances have occurred in six different races, including the current one involving Robson and Biggs. In 2022, during the Missouri U.S. Senate race, he supported both GOP candidates named Eric. In 2024, Trump issued a triple endorsement in Missouri’s gubernatorial race.
The Democratic Governors Association interpreted Trump’s dual support as a significant setback for Robson. The Republican primary victor will likely face Katie Hobbs, who does not have substantial opposition for the Democratic nomination.