Midterms: Katie Hobbs defeats Kari Lake to flip Arizona governorship blue

Phoenix, Arizona - Democrat Katie Hobbs will win Arizona's governor's race, US broadcasters have forecast.

Democratic candidate Katie Hobbs has won the race for Arizona governor against Republican challenger Kari Lake.
Democratic candidate Katie Hobbs has won the race for Arizona governor against Republican challenger Kari Lake.  © REUTERS

The 52-year-old will take the seat over Republican right-wing candidate Kari Lake, NBC and CNN predicted on Tuesday.

Hobbs is a former social worker who worked with victims of domestic violence before becoming a state lawmaker, CNN reported. The incumbent secretary of state made democracy and abortion rights the central focus of her campaign.

Backed by former US president Donald Trump, Lake is among those who have repeated his unsubstantiated claims that Joe Biden won the 2020 presidential election through massive fraud.

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Incumbent Republican governor Doug Ducey was unable to run for reelection due to time limits.

After her projected victory was announced, Hobbs said in a statement, "I want to thank the voters for entrusting me with this immense responsibility. It is truly an honor of a lifetime, and I will do everything in my power to make you proud. I want to thank my family, our volunteers, and campaign staff. Without all of your hard work, passion, and sacrifice this night would not be possible. Thank you from the bottom of my heart."

"For the Arizonans who did not vote for me, I will work just as hard for you - because even in this moment of division, I believe there is so much more that connects us," she continued. "Let's get to work."

Arizona is considered a battleground state which has changed from a once Republican stronghold in favor of the Democrats.

Cover photo: REUTERS

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