State Treasure becomes first major Republican to enter Arizona governor’s race

PHOENIX, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Arizona State Treasurer Kimberly Yee on Monday became the first major Republican candidate to announce she's running for governor.

Yee made the announcement via a video posted to social media:

I’M RUNNING FOR GOVERNOR. Stop the attacks on our state by the socialist agenda and stand with me. Watch now ⬇️⬇️https://t.co/CWhNH15vGF

— Kimberly Yee (@KimberlyYeeAZ) May 17, 2021

In a statement she writes:

“I’m running for Governor to put Arizona first, to ensure our children have the same opportunities and freedoms my family found here, and that starts with securing our southern border. My family's story is about legal immigration in this great country, where they found success by opening a grocery store in Arizona in the 1930’s that thrived and served the community for over 60 years. But today, opportunities like theirs are under attack by socialists, woke corporations and corrupt, establishment politicians. Join me in securing the freedoms and values that have made our country great and putting Arizona first.”

-Campaign announcement from Arizona State Treasurer Kimberly Yee

Watch Kimberly Yee's announcement video here:

Yee is the descendent of immigrants. She's a supporter of former President Donald Trump's border and economic policies. Yee previously served as a state lawmaker representing Phoenix's western suburbs, and was an advisor to former state treasurer Dean Martin.

Yee is the only major Republican, thus far, to announce her candidacy for governor. Former Nogales Mayor Marco López is the only major Democrat to toss his hat into the ring at this point.

Term limits prevent current Gov. Doug Ducey, (R), from seeking a third term.

Arizonans will select their next governor on November 6, 2022 during the biennial midterm elections.