Nonpartisan Voter Resource
We asked every candidate for Arizona Governor the same eight questions about the water challenges facing our state. We take no position on their answers - we publish them so voters can decide. Below are the exact questions we sent.
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The interim guidelines governing river shortages expired in 2026 and the seven basin states are negotiating what replaces them. Arizona holds a junior priority and is cut first. What outcome will you push for, and how will you protect Arizona's supply in those negotiations?
Most rural basins outside the state's Active Management Areas have no limit on pumping, and some communities are watching wells go dry. What is your approach to rural groundwater management, and would you support new tools for basins that want them?
Some large agricultural operations - including foreign-owned farms - have pumped groundwater under state land leases to grow water-intensive export crops. How would you handle the leasing and pricing of the state's water and land going forward?
Water reuse, recycling, and conservation infrastructure require sustained investment. What is your plan for funding these programs, and where do they rank among your budget priorities?
Several tribal water rights settlements remain unresolved. What role will your administration take in reaching and funding fair settlements?
Arizona requires many new developments to demonstrate a 100-year assured water supply. Would you strengthen, keep, or loosen that requirement, and how should the state balance housing growth against secured water?
Agriculture is both the state's largest water user and a vital industry. How would you support farmers and ranchers in improving efficiency without putting them out of business?
Proposals to augment supply - desalination, importation, aquifer storage - carry large costs and tradeoffs. Which, if any, do you consider realistic for Arizona, and how would you weigh their cost against conservation?
Response Tracker
This tracker updates as the ballot is certified and responses arrive. Click a candidate who has answered to read their full, unedited replies.
Candidate to be added as the field is certified
Governor of Arizona
Candidate to be added as the field is certified
Governor of Arizona
Candidate to be added as the field is certified
Governor of Arizona
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