Consultant: Arizona governor’s race should prove interesting

PHOENIX — The most wanted job in Arizona next year could be the governor’s office and political observers cannot wait to watch it unfold.

State Treasurer Doug Ducey and Secretary of State Ken Bennett are among a growing group of Republicans who want the governor’s job.

Stan Barnes with Copper State Consulting said he expects at least one more prominent name to throw his hat in the ring.

“The Mesa mayor (Scott Smith) has a lot of positives going on. He will be top tier, there’s no doubt. I believe he’s going to run, it’s just a matter of timing.”

And Barnes said the Democratic side of the race is formidable with former President Clinton aide Fred DuVal running and possibly state lawmaker Chad Campbell jumping into the mix.

“The Democrats are energized and the candidates are glib, articulate, smart and have proven abilities.”