Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey on possible Senate run: ‘Answer hasn’t changed’

PHOENIX – Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey has repeatedly said he won’t run for U.S. Senate this year, and a new poll showing he’d be the clear front-runner among Republicans hasn’t changed his mind.

“I’ve answered this question several times. … The answer hasn’t changed. I’m 100% focused on my day job,” he told KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Arizona’s Morning News on Thursday.

Polling results released this week by OH Predictive Insights showed that if Ducey were to enter the race, he would be leading his closest Republican competitor, state Attorney General Mark Brnovich, by more than 20 percentage points.

Ducey’s time as governor ends in January 2023 because of term limits. National GOP leaders have reportedly been pushing him to enter the fray for Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly’s seat, which is seen as a key to control of the Senate.

“Of course it’s always satisfying or gratifying when people are encouraging you to do more in public life,” Ducey said. “I’ve got the job I want. This is a great job. I love being the governor. … We want to finish strong here in Arizona and finish the job.”

In addition to his duties as governor, Ducey is serving as chairman of the Republican Governors Association in an election year.

“So I’ve got more than enough on my plate,” he said.

When asked if he’s thinking about a presidential run in 2024, Ducey said no and wouldn’t get speculate about anything beyond the next 11 months.

“No. What’s in my future is being the governor of Arizona for 332 more days,” he said.

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