Andy Biggs and Katie Hobbs search for running mates

YUMA COUNTY, Ariz. (KYMA) - With the governor's race now underway, Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) and Gov. Katie Hobbs (D-Ariz.) have to make a decision on who to nominate for Lt. Governor, and there are some local names swirling around.

The 2026 general election will be the first time voters can choose a Lt. Governor for Arizona after Prop 131 was passed, with 55% of Arizona voters supporting the measure back in 2022, according to AZ Clean Elections.

AZ Clean Elections also said the Lt. Governor will replace the Secretary of State as the successor to the governor if the governor "dies, resigns, is removed from office or is permanently unable to carry out the duties of the Governor and serves until a successor is elected."

Two local people included in the conversation are Yuma County Supervisor Jonathan Lines and State Rep. Michele Peña (R-District 23).

News 11 reached out to Lines for comment, and he provided a statement saying, "I have tremendous respect for Andy Biggs. Today, however, my priority is the work before me...strengthening Yuma County, protecting taxpayers and serving the people who elected me."

News 11 also reached out to State Rep. Peña for comment, and we're waiting to hear back.

The Lt. Governor will take office in January of 2027.