Arizona Gov. Hobbs calls for unity, promises to work with political rivals in inauguration speech

PHOENIX — Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs made a call for unity and promised to work with all legislators, including those on the other side of the aisle, during her inauguration speech Thursday in Phoenix.

The theme of the inauguration was “celebrating an Arizona for everyone,” a message Hobbs highlighted several times during the 13-minute speech outside the Capitol.

“I’m an optimist,” Hobbs said. “I believe that now is the perfect time to move past division and partisanship and return to a path of cooperation and progress.

“I believe in the future of our state and I’m excited about what’s possible if we work together to do what we’ve been elected to do.”

Hobbs, a Democrat, outlined an agenda focused on water, border security, health care access, affordability, workforce development and education.

She said she’d keep her door open for elected officials who are “ready to make real progress.”

“We know we have trials and tribulations before us, including some that politicians have kicked the can on for decades,” Hobbs said.

“But we also know that if we work together, we can start to solve these problems right now and fulfill our responsibility to build a better future for our state.”

Several top Arizona Republicans were in attendance for the inauguration.

Former Govs. Doug Ducey, Jan Brewer and Fife Symington sat in the front row, along with U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, a former Democrat who became an independent last month.

Cindy McCain, the widow of the late Republican Sen. John McCain, and two of her children, Jack and Jimmy McCain, were also in attendance.

“You, the people of Arizona, gave me a clear directive to find common ground, work with people and not political parties, and embrace the challenges that stand before us,” Hobbs said.

“I pledge to you that I will not forget this charge because just like you, I see challenge as opportunity. It’s not always going to be easy, but just like Arizona, I never back down from a tough fight.”

Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, Attorney General Kris Mayes, Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne and Treasurer Kimberly Yee also took part in the proceedings.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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