AZFEC: Katie Hobbs’ Corruption Deepens as She Rejects Bill to Curb Pay-to-Play Scandals

By the Arizona Free Enterprise Club |

Since taking office in 2023, Governor Katie Hobbs of Arizona has faced mounting accusations of corruption. Recently, her decision to veto SB 1612 has raised significant concerns about her commitment to transparency in government.

On the afternoon of May 2, Hobbs vetoed SB 1612, a bill sponsored by State Senator TJ Shope, alongside 21 other bills. This legislation aimed to mandate the disclosure of any gifts or donations received by the governor from individuals or organizations applying for state grants. Advocates argue that such transparency is crucial for all Arizona citizens, regardless of their political affiliations.

Hobbs’ administration has been marked by controversy since its inception. Early in her tenure, she established a fund that critics labeled as a slush fund, which allegedly allowed donors to gain political favor. Reports surfaced that she solicited donations for her inauguration using state resources, further complicating her relationship with transparency. Attempts to keep donor names confidential drew scrutiny from advocacy groups.

After increased public scrutiny and formal requests for records, Hobbs eventually disclosed the names of her donors. Notably, Sunshine Residential Homes Inc., a contractor for the state’s child welfare services, donated $100,000. A subsequent investigation in June 2024 revealed troubling allegations of a pay-to-play arrangement involving this organization.