By Jonathan Eberle |
Despite escalating tensions between the executive and legislative branches in Arizona, the Senate Committee on Director Nominations advanced the confirmation of Robyn Sahid as Commissioner of the State Land Department during a hearing held last week.
The confirmation process continued as scheduled, even as Republican members of the committee criticized Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs over remarks she made last week. GOP lawmakers described Hobbs’ comments as an “explosive temper tantrum” and a threat to bypass the Senate’s confirmation process—a move they characterized as unlawful.
“Senate Republicans will continue to be the adults in the room and serve as the critical check and balance on the executive, as the citizens of Arizona expect of us,” said Committee Chair Sen. Jake Hoffman, referring to Hobbs’ remarks during a press gaggle. Hoffman said the governor’s comments lacked legal grounding and had no impact on the committee’s work.
Senator John Kavanagh echoed that sentiment, calling Hobbs’ statements a “meltdown,” while commending the committee’s decision to confirm Sahid. “We confirmed a competent, non-partisan, qualified individual to serve as commissioner for the State Land Department,” he said.
Sahid, who has served in multiple public sector roles, received praise from lawmakers for her qualifications and demeanor. President Pro Tempore T.J. Shope emphasized that the committee remains open to nominees who demonstrate professionalism and nonpartisanship. “Robyn Sahid fit the bill today, and she should serve as an example to Governor Hobbs of the type of individuals we are looking to advance,” Shope said.
This latest episode is part of an ongoing power struggle between Governor Hobbs and the Republican-controlled Arizona Senate over executive appointments. Since taking office in 2023, Hobbs has clashed with lawmakers over the confirmation process, at one point even withdrawing several nominees in protest of what she described as a partisan and obstructive approach by the Senate.
Arizona law requires that many agency heads appointed by the governor must be confirmed by the state Senate. Tensions have mounted as Republicans have used their majority to exert a more thorough vetting process over appointments.
Jonathan Eberle is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
