Katie Hobbs Announces Mayor John Giles as Her Choice for Lieutenant Governor

Tuesday, August 11, 2026

PHOENIX – Today, Gov. Katie Hobbs is announcing that former Mesa Mayor John Giles is her choice for lieutenant governor. 

In a new digital video, Hobbs introduces Giles as a leader who shares her commitment to putting Arizonans ahead of partisan politics and delivering real results. A lifelong Republican before becoming an Independent, Giles highlights his record of bringing people together to solve problems as mayor of Mesa and explains why he’s joining the ticket to keep Arizona moving forward. 

“At a time when too many politicians are focused on partisan politics, Arizona deserves a lieutenant governor who shares my commitment to putting Arizona first and delivering real results,” said Gov. Katie Hobbs. “That’s why I’m proud to have Mayor John Giles by my side. Whether you’re a Democrat, Republican, or Independent, if you believe in solving problems and putting Arizona first, there’s a place for you on this team.”

“I’m honored to join Katie Hobbs on this historic ticket because we share the belief that leadership is about bringing people together and getting results,” said John Giles. “I’m proud to stand with her to put Arizona first, find common ground, and keep moving our state forward.”

Watch the announcement video here and read a transcript below: 

KATIE HOBBS: I believe leadership is about who you’re willing to fight for. 

HOBBS: And as governor, I’ve always fought for the people of Arizona by cutting taxes, securing our border, supporting public safety, and protecting Arizona’s water. 

HOBBS: Now, for the first time in our state’s history, we are electing a governor and lieutenant governor on the same ticket.

HOBBS: And the first thing I looked for in a running mate was someone who shares that value of putting Arizonans ahead of partisan politics. 

HOBBS: That’s why I’m proud to introduce my running mate, former Mesa Mayor John Giles.

JOHN GILES: I was a lifelong Republican before becoming an Independent because extremists shouldn’t stand in the way of getting things done.

GILES: I was born and raised here in Arizona; attended Mesa public schools. 

GILES: As mayor, I focused on getting results and bringing people together to solve problems. 

GILES: We revitalized our downtown, improved public education, and brought more businesses to our city. 

GILES: I’m proud to join Katie Hobbs as her candidate for lieutenant governor because Katie will continue to put Arizona first. 

HOBBS: Whether you’re a Democrat, Independent, or Republican, if you believe in protecting our freedoms and putting Arizona first, we’re ready to fight for you. 

GILES: Let’s keep Arizona moving forward.

HOBBS: And continue delivering real results for Arizonans.

The son of an elementary school principal and a teacher, John Giles was born and raised in Mesa, Arizona. He and his wife met at Brigham Young University, have been married for 43 years, and have five children and ten grandchildren. A former Republican and now Independent, John served as the mayor of Mesa for ten years, where he revitalized the downtown, strengthened public education, and brought more businesses to the city. Katie asked John to join the ticket because he shares her commitment to putting Arizonans ahead of partisan politics. Together, they will protect Arizonans’ freedoms and continue delivering real results.

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