Republican Candidates Debate for Arizona Governor

PHOENIX (NBC, KYMA) - Four Republican candidates hoping to become Arizona’s next governor took the debate stage Thursday night in Phoenix, laying out their priorities and making their case to voters ahead of the primary election.

The debate featured a mix of experienced political figures and political outsiders, with candidates discussing issues ranging from growth and water to education, border policy and Arizona’s future.

One of the biggest topics of the night was growth across the state and the impact of data center development.

U.S. Congressman Andy Biggs, one of the best-known names in the race, said he believes residents should not end up paying the price through increased demand on power and water systems.

“We’re going to find a way for you to create your own power so where you can get it to your system… that’s going to take some creativity and that’ll take some time. But they should not be given a break and it should not impact current commercial or consumers with regard to power and water,” Biggs said.

Fellow Congressman David Schweikert focused much of his message on Arizona’s long-term growth and what it will take to meet future water demands.

“It’s not going to be free. You have to do sort of an all approach of saying, here’s our options and here’s what we can afford and what gets us the water supply that’s required,” Schweikert said.

The debate also gave voters a chance to hear from businessman candidates Ken Miceli and Scott Neely, who both presented themselves as alternatives to career politicians.

Miceli focused on education and workforce development, saying trade schools should play a bigger role in preparing students for jobs.

“The education system needs to change and we need to change with that. Some people want to go through the four-year path of education. It doesn’t work that way,” Miceli said.

Neely pointed to his years in business and argued that an outside perspective could bring change to state government.

“I’m a guy who’s been in business almost half of my life… and I can bring that same sweeping change to the state of Arizona as your next Arizona governor,” Neely said.

Arizona voters will choose the Republican nominee in the July 21st primary. The winner will move on to face Governor Katie Hobbs in the general election this November.