Senate President Warren Petersen: The Top Pick for 2026 Attorney General

By Steve Twist & Seth Leibsohn |

As Arizona emerges from a contentious election season, attention now shifts to the next major political contest in 2026. While it may not garner the same national spotlight as a presidential election, its implications for Arizona’s political landscape could be significant. Republicans are poised to reclaim key statewide offices that slipped away in 2022, a goal bolstered by recent national trends favoring the party.

Amidst this backdrop, Arizona’s current Attorney General, Kris Mayes, faces scrutiny for her perceived partisanship. Critics, including Senate President Warren Petersen, argue that Mayes has prioritized a progressive agenda over effective law enforcement. Their concerns have prompted Petersen to take a proactive stance against what they view as an abuse of power within the Attorney General’s Office.

Legislation allows the Senate President to intervene in cases where the Attorney General fails to uphold the law. Petersen has utilized this authority strategically, stepping in on several occasions where Mayes has resisted defending Arizona’s laws. A notable example occurred when Mayes refused to support the Save Women’s Sports Act, sparking Petersen’s intervention to safeguard fair competition for female athletes.

Petersen also challenged Mayes when her administration provided questionable legal advice regarding Governor Katie Hobbs’ actions that could undermine the separation of powers. His successful intervention prevented what some called an illegal maneuver regarding agency director confirmations.

In another high-profile issue, Petersen contested Mayes’ attempt to control opioid settlement funds, ultimately securing a legal victory and costly fees against her office. In a striking move, he publicly urged Mayes to comply with court orders regarding executions, leading to a rapid policy reversal on her part.

While Mayes has seemingly retreated from critical legal battles, Petersen has stepped up as a vocal opponent of federal overreach. He has challenged issues ranging from COVID-19 vaccine mandates to regulations impacting gun rights, while Mayes has been noticeably absent from these significant discussions.

A recent revelation added weight to the concerns surrounding Mayes’ independence. Documents indicate she received a detailed plan from a “far-left” organization, the States United Democracy Center, aimed at prosecuting the 2020 alternate electors. If substantiated, this report raises serious questions about her objectivity and commitment to impartiality as Arizona’s chief legal officer.

Looking ahead, it is crucial for Arizonans to consider the leadership they expect from the Attorney General’s Office. With two years remaining in Mayes’ term, support for Petersen grows, as he has consistently defended state laws and constitutional principles. A call for him to officially enter the race for Attorney General may soon resonate even louder among constituents seeking dedicated representation.

Steve Twist is a lawyer in Scottsdale. Seth Leibsohn is a radio host in Phoenix and Senior Fellow with the Claremont Institute.