Swoboda’s CD1 Run with Trump’s Support Sends Political Shockwaves

Arizona Republican Party Chair Gina Swoboda has officially entered the race for Congressional District 1, immediately sending tremors through state politics with an endorsement from former President Donald Trump.

The seat, currently held by Republican David Schweikert, opened after Schweikert announced his 2026 run for governor. Swoboda launched her campaign with what she described as Trump’s “complete and total endorsement,” instantly elevating her as a frontrunner in one of Arizona’s most competitive swing districts.

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— Gina Swoboda (@GinaSwoboda) October 20, 2025

“Today I am proud to announce my candidacy for the Republican nomination in Arizona’s 1st Congressional District,” Swoboda stated. “Over the last month, I have been overwhelmed and humbled by the outpouring of encouragement I have received from supporters across this district to run for this seat and keep it in Republican hands. I am deeply honored to have the endorsement of President Trump as we embark on a campaign that will be centered around the common-sense conservative principles of economic growth and prosperity, strong and secure borders, and protecting taxpayers.”

Her campaign rollout immediately deepened existing divisions within the state party. The House Freedom Caucus of Arizona and several activists connected with Turning Point USA criticized Swoboda’s bid within hours, questioning whether the endorsement was real because Trump didn’t post it.

Swoboda’s tenure as Arizona GOP Chair has been marked by party expansion, but some view her as too closely tied to establishment donors and consultants. However, party insiders say Swoboda maintains strong support among many party factions. Following the ESA controversy, calls for her removal grew, but county chairs across the state quickly issued letters of support reaffirming her leadership. However, ongoing criticism makes it unclear whether she can maintain broad approval after her CD1 run announcement.

Opposition from influential conservative groups creates pressure on two fronts: from Democrats eyeing CD1 as a flip opportunity, and from her own right flank, where a Freedom Caucus-backed challenger could emerge.

Merissa Hamilton of EZAZ is calling for Swoboda to resign as Chair of the AZGOP, stating, “As a state committeeman and former MAL, I have informed my @azgop LD Chair to request @GinaSwoboda resign as Chair. She pledged to God on @GarretLewis’ radio show she wouldn’t run for office while serving as Chair. She needs to resign, and the body needs to hold a new election.”

Conservative radio host Garrett Lewis echoed that criticism: “The AZ RINO establishment circles around RINO @GinaSwoboda who told the AZGOP crowd she wouldn’t run for office while she is the Chair. Another lie. She must step down from her AZGOP Chair position. And I’m sure Trump has been briefed that she is full McCain/Ducey establishment.”

Swoboda has put up what she calls a “firewall” between her campaign and her AZGOP duties, saying she will leave it up to the committeemen to decide if she needs to resign. The Arizona Globe asked Swoboda to clarify the “firewall” comment, but did not receive a response.

For now, one thing is clear: what began as a simple open-seat shuffle has turned into a full-scale test of whether a Trump endorsement can still clear the field in one of Arizona’s most fragile swing districts.