On Tuesday, Democrat Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs made headlines by vetoing a pivotal bill aimed at accelerating the vote-counting process in the state. The proposed legislation sought to modify the current voting system by mandating that early in-person mail-in ballot drop-offs be completed by 7 pm on the Friday preceding election day. Voters would still retain the ability to send in their ballots or deliver them directly to the County Recorder’s office by 7 pm on election day. However, the changes would have ensured that the counting process could begin earlier, targeting the efficiency demonstrated by states like Florida.
Governor Hobbs faced intense scrutiny following her election victory over Trump-endorsed Kari Lake, amid reports of malfunctioning voting machines and alleged fraudulent mail-in ballots. Critics argue that Hobbs secured her governorship through a flawed election system, a fact that has fueled ongoing debates about election integrity in the state. Despite these concerns, Hobbs rejected the bill, stating in her veto letter that it would “needlessly restrict Arizona citizens’ right to vote, or undermine the learning and safety of students in public school districts.” This statement has been widely criticized as a baseless defense against necessary election reforms.
Unfazed by the backlash, Hobbs emphasized her desire for “same day voter registration” to be considered within any future election legislation. This suggestion has been heavily criticized, with opponents arguing that it opens doors to disorganized and potentially fraudulent voting practices. Proponents of the bill argue that Hobbs’s veto is a thinly veiled attempt at political self-preservation. “Why help fix our elections when you’re only in office because of a broken one?” the Kari Lake War Room remarked, highlighting suspicions that Hobbs is prioritizing her political security over electoral transparency.
You almost can't blame @katiehobbs for this act of self-preservation.
Why help fix our elections when you're only in office because of a broken one?
Hobbs needs a miracle to be “re-elected,” & those “miracles” are often found when counting ballots for WEEKS after Election Day. https://t.co/NwORqEbl9r
— Kari Lake War Room (@KariLakeWarRoom) February 18, 2025
This action by Hobbs unfolds against a backdrop of determined efforts by Arizona Republicans to emulate Florida’s efficient vote-counting procedures. Their aim is to deliver election results swiftly and thereby boost public confidence in the outcomes. In a move to empower voters directly, Arizona House Republicans have passed a concurrent resolution to present this issue as a ballot initiative, allowing Arizonans to have their say on how elections should be conducted.
Looking to the future political landscape, U.S. Congressman Andy Biggs (R-AZ) has declared his intention to run for governor in 2026. Biggs, an ardent supporter of former President Donald Trump, is anticipated to win the Republican nomination and could potentially challenge Hobbs in the gubernatorial race, setting the stage for a significant political showdown.
h/t: Steadfast and Loyal
this shows Democracy at it’s best
you can’t cheat if your going hand count ballots
and in one day
you have to know how many ballots to issue to win
In Arizona it’s not bad enough yet