Trump ally faces election defender in Arizona governor race

By JONATHAN J. COOPER
Associated Press

PHOENIX (AP) — The appeal of Donald Trump’s movement is being put to the test Tuesday in the race for governor of Arizona. Democrat Katie Hobbs took a lead over Republican Kari Lake in initial results, which reflected mail ballots returned ahead of election day. Her lead was expected to narrow considerably as ballots cast in person on election day were reported. Hobbs is Arizona’s secretary of state and rose to prominence defending the integrity of the 2020 election. Lake’s television-ready demeanor, confrontations with journalists and combative message for Democrats made the first-time candidate a rising star on the right. President Joe Biden’s margin of victory was lower in Arizona than any other state.