By Matthew Holloway |
Democratic state Rep. Lydia Hernandez (D-LD24) endorsed Republican Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen (R-LD14) for attorney general Friday, backing him over incumbent Democratic Attorney General Kris Mayes.
Petersen’s campaign announced the endorsement on X, presenting it as evidence of support for his candidacy across party lines.
“I’m a legislator and Democrat, and I’m supporting Warren Petersen for Attorney General,” said Hernandez. “The Attorney General must keep our families safe, protect our students, and stand up for our schools — and Warren Petersen is the only candidate for the job.”
“As a lifelong Democrat and public school advocate, I’m voting for the only candidate that can protect our community,” Hernandez added.
Hernandez’s public education work includes service on the Cartwright School District Governing Board, where she has served since 2003.
Hernandez is set to leave the Legislature in January after finishing third in July’s four-candidate Democratic primary for the two House seats in LD24. The Legislative District 24 Democratic Party had previously censured her, citing her votes with Republicans and earlier endorsements of Republican candidates, including former Gov. Doug Ducey and former Secretary of State Michele Reagan. Hernandez’s endorsement of Petersen follows that history of crossing party lines.
Hernandez also sponsored HB 4109, legislation known as “Michael’s Law.” The measure would have required school districts to adopt public safety policies addressing life-threatening violence, threats involving weapons, parental notification, and contact with law enforcement.
HB 4109 passed the Arizona House in April but was held in the Senate.
Petersen said his working relationship with Hernandez showed that officeholders from opposing parties can cooperate on issues affecting their constituents.
“Throughout my time in the Legislature, I’ve been privileged to work with legislators on both sides of the aisle,” Petersen said. “Lydia Hernandez and I may be from different parties, but we know how to work together in the best interest of the people we represent.”
“That kind of cooperation is often missing from our political discourse today,” he continued. “As Attorney General, I will bring that same approach to the office to uphold our laws and protect Arizonans, not put political allies above the rule of law.”
Petersen thanked Hernandez for her support and said he looked forward to working with her on school and community safety.
The Petersen campaign said Hernandez joins a coalition of supporters that includes law enforcement officials, business representatives, rural leaders, and community advocates.
Arizona’s general election is scheduled for Nov. 3. The voter registration deadline is Oct. 5, and early voting begins Oct. 7.
Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.
