Trump Endorses Kolodin in Arizona’s Secretary of State Race
Trump Backs Kolodin for Arizona Secretary of State
Former President Donald Trump has endorsed Republican Alexander Kolodin for Arizona’s secretary of state. Trump shared his support on Truth Social, highlighting Kolodin’s recent triumph over former GOP chair Gina Swoboda for the Republican nomination. Kolodin will face Democratic incumbent Adrian Fontes in November’s general election.
Impact of Trump’s Support
Trump’s endorsement could significantly influence this race. The winner will manage voting and certification processes in a crucial state. Arizona is expected to be a battleground during the 2028 presidential election. Trump’s endorsement aims to boost Kolodin’s chances and test whether his influence extends beyond his core supporters, during a time when Trump’s popularity seems to be waning.
On Saturday, Trump posted, “Congratulations to Alexander Kolodin for his great win in Arizona’s race for Secretary of State. He is tough, smart, and a proven winner. He was with me in my big Presidential Win. We’ll do a fantastic Trump Rally to make sure he WINS.”
Kolodin’s Election Prospects
As of early Sunday, Trump’s endorsement was still fresh, but the Kalshi prediction market listed Kolodin’s chances of winning at 18.1%, a boost of six percentage points from the previous day. Fontes remains ahead with an 81% chance. Historically, Kolodin’s highest predicted chance of winning was 31% on December 28, 2025, according to Kalshi. Prediction markets reflect investor sentiment rather than scientific polling.
After his primary victory, Kolodin tweeted on July 22, “Arizona voters spoke up decisively tonight for lawful, transparent, honest, and fair elections… Our campaign is about protecting every vote, regardless of Party. Together, we will win in November and restore lawfulness, stability, and common sense to the office of Arizona Secretary of State.”
Kolodin’s Controversial Background
The Arizona secretary of state oversees various election-related duties, including certifying voting equipment and results. Kolodin, supported by Turning Point USA and some Arizona GOP Congress members, has been involved in multiple lawsuits challenging election results from 2020 and 2022. These actions drew criticism from judges and the Arizona bar association. In 2023, Kolodin faced sanctions from the Arizona State Bar for his role in post-election litigation.
In the “Kraken” lawsuit, Kolodin represented Trump, alleging election fraud in Arizona involving ex-Secretary of State Katie Hobbs and Governor Doug Ducey. The suit aimed to invalidate the state’s mail-in ballots and the election of Arizona’s electors for Biden. U.S. District Court Judge Diane Humetewa dismissed the case, citing unreliable evidence and the potential “utter disenfranchisement” of millions of voters.