Governor Hobbs’ Epic Spelling Blunder: Native Landscape Takes Center Stage at Reading Event

By Staff Reporter |

Governor Katie Hobbs recently faced scrutiny after a notable spelling error appeared in a social media post regarding her support for Read Across America week. The post mistakenly referred to Chaparral Elementary School as “Chapparral,” prompting criticism from Dan Coulson, former press secretary for her predecessor, Doug Ducey.

“Please tell me Katie Hobbs isn’t teaching those kids spelling too!” Coulson commented, pointing out that the correct spelling was clearly visible on a sign in the background of the post. Hobbs had visited Chaparral Elementary and read “A Walk in the Words” by Hudson Talbott to the students to celebrate the occasion.

Read Across America Week, initiated by the National Education Association (NEA) in 1998, aims to promote childhood literacy. Historically tethered to Dr. Seuss’s birthday, the event’s association with the author has shifted due to recent controversies surrounding some of his works, which have been criticized for racist undertones. Consequently, several of these books, including “And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street” and “If I Ran the Zoo,” are no longer published.

A fascinating aspect of Arizona’s geography, the term “chaparral” describes regions filled with dense shrubbery at higher elevations. Arizona is home to around 3.5 million acres of this unique habitat, which constitutes approximately four percent of the state’s land. This region supports diverse flora and fauna, including species like manzanita and various oak trees.

Hobbs’ spelling error marks another public misstep in her administration. Earlier this month, a video surfaced showing her expressing frustration over her inability to effectively lead the state legislature. This followed her struggle to secure support for her nominee for the Arizona Department of Housing. GOP lawmakers, including State Senator Jake Hoffman, highlighted concerns over a sunset review that uncovered critical issues with the department under Hobbs’ suggestions.

Moreover, Hobbs has faced backlash from legislative leaders regarding a $122 million shortfall in the Arizona State Developmental Disabilities Program, with accusations of financial mismanagement surfacing from GOP members and the state treasurer. In response to these challenges and to bolster her public image ahead of her reelection campaign, Hobbs has recently adopted several policies aligned with Republican viewpoints.