Politics Unplugged (Full Episode) August 23, 2026

Several Arizona races, including House District 1, treasurer and superintendent of public instruction, remain too close to call as of Thursday morning.

Gov. Hobbs and her running mate, John Giles, held a victory rally at the Carpenters Local 1912 Hall near 43rd Avenue on McDowell Road.

Most Arizona insurers raised marketplace rates by 25% to 30%, but some residents are seeing even steeper increases. Scottsdale retiree Darryl Komesu says the premium for his current plan would nearly triple. He plans to switch to a less expensive plan, but worries its reduced coverage could put his retirement savings at risk. Open enrollment runs through Jan. 15, with a Dec. 15 deadline to select coverage starting Jan. 1.

The Arizona Legislature voted to put the issue before voters as cities such as Phoenix and Tempe reinstated programs. Amy Cutler investigates what will change.

Arizona’s grocery tax cap has passed, but what happens next for shoppers and local services? Proposition 316 limits municipal grocery taxes to 2% and requires voter approval for future increases. Cities already at or above 2% can only lower their rates. Critics warn the restrictions could put pressure on services or force cities to raise other taxes. The League of Arizona Cities and Towns says the measure balances affordability with local funding needs.

The potential shift would end decades of Republican control at the Capitol. Democratic leaders say voters want lawmakers to focus on everyday issues instead of national politics. They have signaled plans to address school vouchers, data centers and the state’s water supply. Political editor Dennis Welch explains what the potential power shift could mean for Arizona.