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Dems Win First Trifecta Since 1966 In Formerly Solid Red State
Arizona Democrats have won control of both chambers of the state legislature while retaining the governor’s office, ending 60 years of Republican control in the House. It is the party’s first state-level trifecta there since 1966 and gives Governor Katie Hobbs a legislature more aligned with her priorities.
The Associated Press called at least 31 of 60 House seats and 17 of 30 Senate seats for Democrats; Republicans previously held those chambers by 33–27 and 17–13 margins. Hobbs vetoed more than 540 bills during her first term, a state record, and has highlighted water, affordability and school voucher spending. The result may also affect the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact: Arizona and four other states with new Democratic trifectas could raise its membership to 283 electoral votes, above the 270 needed for the agreement to take effect.
In short
- Democrats won Arizona’s first trifecta since 1966.
- They captured at least 31 House and 17 Senate seats.
- Five new Democratic trifectas could lift the compact to 283 electoral votes.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Democrats may argue that voters have chosen a legislature better aligned with Governor Hobbs, making it easier to pursue priorities such as water security and affordability and to scrutinise school voucher spending. Supporters may see the result as a mandate for more responsive state government after years of Republican control and frequent vetoes, and as an opportunity to advance the National Popular Vote compact.
The case against
Republicans may argue that one election’s results do not settle the merits of the governor’s agenda, and that unified Democratic control removes a legislative check that could scrutinise spending and protect competing priorities. They may also contend that policies on school vouchers and the National Popular Vote compact deserve close debate, and that the compact could change how Arizona’s electoral votes are allocated without requiring agreement from voters in every state.