Hobbs Backs Down on Regulatory Nominee Over Absence Worries

By Jonathan Eberle |

Governor Katie Hobbs has retracted her nomination of Jenny Domingo to the Governor’s Regulatory Review Council (GRRC) after it was revealed that Domingo would be unavailable for several months. This decision came just hours before a planned Senate confirmation hearing, drawing criticism from GOP lawmakers.

Senate Government Committee Chairman Jake Hoffman highlighted Domingo’s absence. She departed the country in April and will not return until September, coinciding with 12 scheduled GRRC meetings to assess regulatory actions from various state agencies. Hoffman expressed concern over the implications of such a prolonged absence and questioned the administration’s vetting processes.

“I am completely dumbfounded why the highest elected official in the State of Arizona would nominate an individual who would rather prioritize her vacation schedule than her important role of service to the citizens of Arizona,” Hoffman stated. He urged Governor Hobbs to nominate someone more committed to the role.

Domingo had been appointed in October 2024 and was expected to help the GRRC ensure that regulations are necessary and legally sound. The council functions as a critical review body for agency rules, significantly impacting the regulatory landscape of Arizona.

Although Hobbs’ office has yet to release an official statement on the withdrawal, the incident highlights ongoing partisan tensions over gubernatorial appointments. Republicans argue that this situation underscores broader challenges within Hobbs’ governance approach.

It remains uncertain who will be nominated to replace Domingo on the GRRC. The council has a pressing agenda of regulatory reviews that could influence several sectors, including occupational licensing, construction, and consumer goods.

Jonathan Eberle is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.