Senate President Petersen Throws Hat in Ring for Arizona Attorney General

By Matthew Holloway |

Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen has officially declared his candidacy for the position of State Attorney General, aiming to unseat incumbent Democrat Kris Mayes in the 2026 election. His statement of interest was filed last week, signaling the beginning of a signature collection campaign for his nomination, as reported by KJZZ.

Petersen has been a vocal critic of Mayes’ performance, often opposing her in litigation. He has taken a stance against laws she has refused to uphold, labeling her approach as “activist.” In a text to KJZZ, he stated, “We have been defending laws she has not. Not only have we done our job but hers as well.”

Expounding on his motivations, Petersen remarked to AZCentral, “Voters have delivered a message: they want legislators and top law enforcement officials to secure the border and make our neighborhoods safer.” He emphasized the need for adherence to laws, claiming that Mayes has failed in her enforcement duties.

In a December op-ed for AZ Free News, attorney Steve Twist and Phoenix radio host Seth Leibsohn expressed robust support for Petersen, asserting, “Whether as Judiciary Chairman, or now as Senate President; time and time again, he has demonstrated the ability, courage, and leadership to put Arizona first.” They argued that Petersen embodies the moral voice for justice in Arizona’s legal affairs.

Petersen, in his announcement via social media, highlighted the endorsements from respected legal figures: “At their behest and that of many in the legal community, I have taken the first step to run for AG.”

Joining Petersen in the race, former Democrat Rodney Glassman and Green Party candidate Duwayne Collier have also filed statements of interest for the upcoming election.

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.