By Daniel Stefanski |

A recent poll from Noble Predictive Insights (NPI) reveals a climate of pessimism among Arizonans regarding the future of their state. Conducted among over 1,000 registered voters, the survey highlights a significant shift in public sentiment, with 60% of respondents indicating that Arizona is heading in the wrong direction.

This marks an increase in negative sentiment since the beginning of Governor Katie Hobbs’ administration in January 2023, when 55% felt the state was off track. The current figures also show a notable partisan divide: 77% of Republican respondents expressed concern about the state’s direction, a statistic that rises to 81% among those identifying as Trump-First Republicans. In contrast, approximately two-thirds of Democrats (including 68% of Party-First Democrats) view the state’s trajectory positively.

Independents align more closely with Republicans, as 64% report dissatisfaction with Arizona’s current path. David Byler, NPI Chief of Research, noted that worsening economic conditions, particularly inflation since early 2022, have fueled this pessimism. He added, “Partisanship plays a role… Longtime Republican Arizonans are watching the state turn purple.”

Furthermore, the survey found a correlation between residency duration and satisfaction with the state. Newer residents—those who have lived in Arizona for less than five years—tend to be more optimistic, with 56% believing the state is on the right track.

In response to the poll, Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen emphasized Republican achievements in policy over the past decade. However, he criticized Governor Hobbs for policies he believes negatively impact housing supply and affordability, contributing to the public’s pessimistic outlook. “The pessimistic attitudes are a direct result of the partisan games being played by the Governor,” he stated.

House Speaker Ben Toma echoed these sentiments, attributing economic struggles to the effects of broader inflationary policies at the national level. He argued that the leadership in Washington and locally is undermining the successful conservative policies that have historically bolstered Arizona’s economic growth and stability.

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