Rep. David Schweikert, R-Ariz., is running for Arizona governor in 2026, leaving his House seat in a key swing district.

Rep. David Schweikert, R-Ariz., has entered the 2026 Republican primary for Arizona governor, stepping down from his competitive Phoenix-area House seat. He joins two Trump-backed candidates, Karrin Taylor Robson and Andy Biggs, in a crowded GOP race. Schweikert cited congressional gridlock and Arizona’s economic potential as reasons for his move, aiming to bring conservative policy focus to state leadership. His departure opens a toss-up House seat, boosting Democratic hopes to flip it. Though he has criticized the federal budget deficit, he supported a Trump-backed budget bill projected to increase national debt. Schweikert has faced past campaign finance violations and fines. The GOP primary winner will likely face Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs, who has no significant primary opposition.