Rob Schneider helps Andy Biggs mock Gov. Katie Hobbs’ debate refusal

U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs, the Republican nominee for Arizona governor, decided he didn’t need his opponent’s participation to debate against her.

Biggs sent out a news release Thursday morning announcing that his campaign was hosting a debate that afternoon.

The “debate” turned out to be a campaign ad/skit mocking Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs for refusing to debate.

Hobbs also used the no-debate strategy during her gubernatorial campaign four years ago, when she defeated Republican Kari Lake in the general election.

Rob Schneider, aka Roberto Schneidecky, moderates ‘debate’

The 14-minute video, which was posted to the Biggs campaign’s YouTube and social media pages, starts with actor, comedian and Scottsdale resident Rob Schneider introducing himself as moderator Roberto Schneidecky.

When Schneider’s character introduces Hobbs, the camera shows an unoccupied lectern while the sound of crickets chirping plays. The on-screen label reads “Katie Hobbs/Afraid To Debate.”

The lectern scene becomes a running gag whenever it is Hobbs’ turn to appear on camera.

Meanwhile, Biggs uses his turns to deliver his campaign positions as if it were an actual debate.

The audience is made up of Grand Canyon University students, some of whom answer questions from Schneider. They all give pro-Biggs responses.

The final shot is of Schneider standing in the audience and delivering a version of a catchphrase he used in multiple movies: “Andy Biggs, you can do it!”

Actual governor and lieutenant governor debates will be held without Democrats

The real Arizona Clean Elections Commission debates for governor and lieutenant governor will be held next week.

Biggs’ running mate, Sine Kerr, and No Labels Party lieutenant governor hopeful Angela Harrolle Mohan are set to debate Monday.

Biggs, Green Party nominee Risa Lombardo and No Labels Party nominee Teri Hourihan will debate Tuesday.

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