GOP Tensions Ignite as New Candidate Enters School Choice Superintendent Race

By Staff Reporter |

Republican divisions over school choice in Arizona have led to a new candidate joining the 2026 race for superintendent of public instruction. The contention revolves around how the superintendent should manage the reimbursement of school choice funds.

Arizona Treasurer Kimberly Yee officially launched her campaign on Wednesday, supported by the Arizona Freedom Caucus. Caucus founder Sen. Jake Hoffman endorsed her outside the state capitol, criticizing the current superintendent, Tom Horne, for restricting school choice disbursements.

Hoffman highlighted ongoing “challenges” with the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) Program, noting the frustrations parents face while navigating it. He expressed confidence in Yee’s ability to unite the Republican Party, emphasizing her track record in elections.

“We need a chief education officer committed to delivering real results for Arizona children and families,” Yee stated. She promised a “student-first” approach and a vocational pathway for future leaders, reinforcing her support for enhanced school choice options.

Yee criticized Horne for alleged “big government overreach” and political maneuvering that she claims hampers effective leadership. “For too long, the leadership at the Arizona Department of Education has missed the mark,” she added.

Asked whether she would impose limits on ESA spending, Yee maintained that existing legislative “guardrails” are adequate. Hoffman previously declared his intent to run against Horne, accusing him of not adequately defending the ESA Program against pressures from Governor Katie Hobbs and Attorney General Kris Mayes.

Currently, Horne has denied multiple reimbursement requests under the ESA Program, including those for a $16,000 cello and a $24,000 golf simulator, among others. One family, initially benefiting from ESA funds, later enrolled their child in public school after receiving substantial reimbursements.

Horne maintains his position as the staunch defender of school choice, recalling his legislative work from the 1990s. He has publicly challenged Hoffman to a debate regarding education policy.

While Yee’s platform emphasizes fiscal responsibility, consistent with her recent campaign strategy, it lacks detailed plans addressing the everyday challenges in education. In contrast, Horne’s platform presents a well-rounded approach to education reform.

Aside from Horne and Yee, Stephen Neal Jr., a former school psychologist, is the only other registered Republican showing interest in the race. The Democratic side features five candidates, adding to the competitive landscape as Arizona’s education policies come under scrutiny.