Adrian Fontes, Arizona Secretary of State

Friday, November 06, 2026 | 19:08

Yes, he just won another statewide election as part of the biggest winning year for Democrats in modern Arizona history. Sure, he beat his opponent, Alexander Kolodin, by more than 10 points and 255,000 votes. And, yes, he’s still two months away from even starting his next four-year term in office.    But, still, I had to ask my guest on the AZ Political Podcast — recently reelected Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes — what’s next for him.    Governor? Congress?    No, really! I had to ask him because he’s now 3-for-4 in his electoral career and has a .1000 batting average when it comes to winning statewide elections. And I had to ask because these thoughts are always bouncing around the heads of politicians during heady times like these.   His answer is surprising (which is not surprising because it’s Fontes) — but what’s not surprising is the honesty he delivers in explaining why he can’t be 100% forthcoming about his future.   In other words, I got an entertaining and thoughtful non-answer to my question — served with a side of candor.   His plain-spoken way of putting things (even when holding things close to his vest) is why a top Republican advisor told me recently that Fontes is the Democrat he fears the most.   In typical Fontes fashion, he doesn’t hold back on other topics: like funding elections properly; funding all levels of government in Arizona’s (traditionally) tax-averse environment; how badly Republicans really got beat on Election Day; and, why he had such a big win.    Is it because he’s Adrian Fontes? Or was it because of who his opponent is — or what he is: a Republican. Because most candidates with a “R” didn’t get a “W” on Election Day.   You’ll have to watch the AZ Political Podcast to get the answer. But trust me, it’ll be worth it. Because… Fontes.