Arizona Democrats’ Sweep Provides Policy Flexibility Amid New Challenges

Arizona Democrats will have the power to shape state policy without legislative obstruction following their sweeping victories in the midterm elections. For the first time since 1966, Democrats hold majorities in both chambers of the state legislature, and they also control the governor’s office, secretary of state, superintendent of public instruction, treasurer, and mine inspector positions for the first time since 1948.

Gov. Katie Hobbs, Attorney General Kris Mayes, and Secretary of State Adrian Fontes were all reelected to offices they first won in 2022. With a Democratic trifecta now in place, the state’s Democratic leadership will no longer face the same legislative barriers that have historically blocked their agenda.

Out of the 125 pieces of legislation signed into law by Hobbs during the 2026 legislative session, only five were sponsored by Democrats. Republicans previously used their control of legislative committees to block Democratic proposals and even attempt to pass bills that would be vetoed by Hobbs.

Sam Richard, a Democratic lobbyist, told the Arizona Mirror, “The upshot of everything is that we’re going to be able to do whatever we want. The real question, I think, becomes what is prudent to do, and what is it that we’re really after?” Republican political consultant Barrett Marson noted that Democrats are now positioned to enact substantial policy changes after years of being sidelined.

Despite their newfound power, Democrats face challenges in raising taxes, as the Arizona Constitution requires a two-thirds majority in both chambers. Democrats have a two-thirds majority in the Senate but not in the House, where Republican support for tax increases is unlikely. There has been no indication that Hobbs or Democratic lawmakers will attempt to repeal the 2.5% flat income tax implemented by Republicans in 2023.

Democratic leaders also aim to increase oversight of Arizona’s school voucher program, which has been a key Republican policy achievement. Teresa Leyba Ruiz, who defeated Republican Treasurer Kimberly Yee, will work with Hobbs and legislative Democrats to reform the Empowerment Scholarship Account program.