Republican Candidates in Arizona and Nevada Walk a Fine Line on Mail Voting

Wed Sep 17 2025 21:12:55 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

As midterm elections approach, GOP candidates in Arizona and Nevada grapple with the implications of mail voting, balancing Trump's hardline stance against the practical needs of their constituents.

In Arizona and Nevada, Republican candidates face challenges as they navigate the controversial issue of mail voting. While Trump calls for an end to mail-in ballots, some local leaders like Andy Biggs support them, highlighting a divide in the party. With mail voting proven to rally GOP voter turnout, candidates must balance loyalty to Trump with the preferences of their electorate ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

PHOENIX (RTWNews) — As the midterm elections approach, former President Donald Trump has reiterated his opposition to mail voting. However, Republican candidates in key states like Arizona and Nevada are treading carefully on this contentious issue.

In Arizona’s governor race, U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs, who has Trump’s endorsement, stops short of calling for the elimination of mail voting, despite having raised concerns following Trump's 2020 election loss. His challenger, Karrin Taylor Robson, also backed by Trump, has been vague about her stance regarding mail ballots.

This situation underscores the dilemma many GOP contenders face: balancing loyalty to Trump with the convenience that mail voting offers to constituents. In races where mail voting has proven beneficial to Republican candidates, the stakes are high.

In recent elections, mail voting helped Republicans gain ground in Arizona, with a notable turnout that favored Trump and expanded the party's legislative influence. Some strategists argue that Trump’s stance against mail voting could further complicate the party’s dynamics as it faces a challenging election cycle.

Historical Context and Current Dynamics

Historically, mail voting has been popular in Arizona, contributing to around 85% of the votes cast. Many Republicans view this method as essential for successful campaigning, leading to friction within the party about Trump’s calls for its end. Concerns about electoral integrity linger, but evidence of widespread fraud remains unsubstantiated.

In Nevada, a similar situation unfolds, where Governor Joe Lombardo navigates his support for Trump while trying to maintain his moderate reputation. Lombardo has been strategic about mail voting, previously calling for the end of universal mail-in ballots while also aligning with popular voter reforms.

This complex landscape suggests that as the GOP prepares for the midterms, the dichotomy between traditional Republican values and the evolving electoral landscape will continue to challenge candidates. Candidates like Biggs and Lombardo will need to find a careful balance to mobilize voters effectively without alienating their base.

With the political climate constantly shifting, how the GOP addresses mail voting in these battleground states will play a crucial role in their electoral success.