Arizona leaders react to death of former state Attorney General Mark Brnovich

PHOENIX — Arizonans from across the political spectrum paid tribute to former Attorney General Mark Brnovich, whose death by heart attack at age 59 was announced by his family Tuesday.

Born in Detroit in 1966 to Serbian parents, Brnovich served as a Judge Advocate in the Army National Guard from 1996 to 2005. He later led the Arizona Department of Gaming from 2009 until 2013, when he stepped down to run for attorney general.

Brnovich won the 2014 election, defeating incumbent Tom Horne in the Republican primary and Democrat Felecia Rotellini in the general. He went on to serve two terms as Arizona’s 26th attorney general, holding office from 2015 to 2023.

He is survived by his wife, federal Judge Susan Brnovich, and two daughters.

Arizona leaders honor memory of Mark Brnovich

Arizona’s current attorney general, Kris Mayes, said she was saddened to hear of her predecessor’s sudden passing.

“Mark dedicated many years to public service in Arizona, including his two terms as Attorney General,” Mayes said on social media.

Arizona is grateful for his service. My thoughts, and those of everyone he worked with at the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, are with his loved ones today.

— AZ Attorney General Kris Mayes (@AZAGMayes) January 13, 2026

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, also said she was saddened to hear of his passing.

“I’m thinking of his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” Hobbs said.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Greg Stanton offered his condolences in a social media post.

“I’m saddened to hear former Attorney General Mark Brnovich passed,” Stanton said. “He led an honorable career in public service. Against tremendous political pressure, one of his final acts in office was to stand up against untrue claims of voter fraud in Arizona. My prayers are with his loved ones.”

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego expressed similar sentiments.

“Mark Brnovich served Arizona as a lifelong prosecutor and public servant, and he leaves us far too soon. My deepest condolences go out to his wife, Judge Brnovich, and his two daughters — and I urge everyone to keep them in our hearts at this difficult time,” Gallego said on X.

Tom Horne mourns rival turned friend

Horne, Arizona’s current superintendent of public instruction, described Brnovich as both a devoted family man and an outstanding and dedicated public servant.

“He will be missed,” Horne said. “At one time we were political opponents, but we eventually became friends, for which I am grateful. My hope is that his family finds peace as they mourn this wonderful person.”

Former Republican Gov. Doug Ducey publicly honored Brnovich. Unlike with Horne, Brnovich had no rivalry with Ducey. In fact, the two worked together closely.

“It was an honor to campaign with and serve alongside Mark Brnovich,” Ducey said on social media. “For those of us blessed to call him a friend, his humor, positivity and happy warrior spirit were infectious.”

Angela’s and my deepest prayers and condolences are with Susan and the entire Brnovich family. It was an honor to campaign with and serve alongside Mark Brnovich. His passion for the law, justice, and victims were hallmarks of his career in public service. For those of us blessed… https://t.co/lX8ldReEsq

— Doug Ducey (@DougDucey) January 13, 2026

Brnovich, who was known for his pride in his Serbian heritage, as well as his love of nunchucks and the Grateful Dead, was also commemorated by the Republican Party of Arizona.

Please see the AZGOP’s statement on the passing of Mark Brnovich: pic.twitter.com/6VQ3x394zy

— Republican Party of Arizona (@AZGOP) January 13, 2026

Other Republicans react to news of Mark Brnovich’s death

U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani honored the memory of the former attorney general.

Laura and I are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of former Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich. He dedicated his life to public service and to the people of Arizona, leaving a lasting impact on our state. Our prayers are with his wife Susan, his family, and all who are… https://t.co/wlgKqzt6WI

— Congressman Juan Ciscomani (@RepCiscomani) January 13, 2026

Two of the Republicans competing in the GOP gubernatorial primary this year voiced their sadness in the wake of the news.

“My prayers and condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” Karrin Taylor-Robson said. “May he rest in peace.”

U.S. Rep. David Schweikert, who currently represents Arizona’s 1st Congressional District, also said he was saddened.

“Mark was a steadfast public servant who loved Arizona and spent his life fighting for the rule of law and justice,” Schweikert said. “Beyond the titles, he was a devoted husband, father, son, and brother — and that’s the loss that matters most today.”

One of the Republicans competing for Schweikert’s congressional seat, Gina Swoboda, spoke out to honor Brnovich’s memory.

God bless you and keep you ⁦@GeneralBrnovich⁩ Thank you for your service to the State of Arizona. May God hold your family in his loving embrace. 🙏🏻🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/Ds0NyT2apo

— Gina Swoboda (@GinaSwoboda) January 13, 2026

The chairwoman of the Arizona Republican Party thanked him for his service to the state.

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