Arizona National Guard Chief Announces Surprise Resignation

Adjutant General Kerry Muehlenbeck of the Arizona National Guard has officially announced her resignation, marking a significant transition within the Department of Emergency and Military Affairs.

Muehlenbeck, appointed by former Governor Doug Ducey, was retained by Governor Katie Hobbs when she took office in 2023. Her decision to step down is not due to dissatisfaction but stems from federal regulations that require employers to hold positions open for five years while employees serve in the military. This period concludes this year, compelling her return to her prior role as a criminal justice studies instructor at Mesa Community College.

The move paves the way for Hobbs to appoint a new leader who will undergo rigorous scrutiny from the Senate Committee on Director Nominations. This committee was established to evaluate the new governor’s selections, reflecting the importance of the position.

Senator Jake Hoffman, committee chair, emphasized the necessity of selecting an effective leader. He articulated a desire to maintain a military force that embodies efficiency and effectiveness. Hoffman warned that any nominee perceived as influenced by “woke ideology” would face significant opposition.

Historically, Republican legislators have sought to influence the operations of the Arizona National Guard, despite the legal authority resting with the governor. Muehlenbeck stressed the need for her successor to understand the political dimensions of the role while advocating for a nonpartisan approach.

Regarding her tenure, Muehlenbeck noted, “In the military, you don’t take any of the decisions personally.” While she offered advice and options to the governor, the final decision rests with the state’s leader.

The adjutant general manages both the Army and Air National Guard, consisting of approximately 8,000 personnel. Although the governor commands the Guard, Title 10 of the U.S. Code grants the president authority to mobilize these forces for federal assignments, encompassing various roles, from combat deployments to domestic emergency response.

Contentions have arisen over proposed state laws aimed at regulating the deployment of the Arizona National Guard. One contentious bill, championed by Senator Wendy Rogers, seeks to restrict active duty combat unless Congress declares war. Previous iterations of the bill encountered significant hurdles, notably due to concerns over potential loss of federal funding and equipment.

Despite challenges to her position, Muehlenbeck believes the Arizona Guard should not be limited to in-state missions. She highlighted the Guard’s training and capabilities, asserting the necessity of being ready to respond both locally and nationwide.

Debate continues regarding the military’s role at the U.S.-Mexico border, with some lawmakers advocating for a more active enforcement role than current support functions. Muehlenbeck advised her successor to prioritize personnel welfare, stating, “If you can build strong and resilient people, they will follow you just about anywhere and they will do amazing things.”