Arizona Senate Demands AG Kris Mayes Step Down Over ICE Comments as Gov. Hobbs Breaks Ranks

The attorney general’s remarks about immigration enforcement and self-defense laws sparked a political showdown, dividing state leaders over her intent and judgment. The political temperature at the Arizona Capitol climbed sharply this week as the Arizona Senate passed a resolution urging Attorney General Kris Mayes to resign following remarks she made about federal immigration enforcement and the state’s Stand Your Ground law. Mayes’ comments, delivered during a KTAR News 92.3 FM interview earlier in January, centered on her concern that Arizona’s broad self-defense protections could heighten the risk of violent encounters if U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents entered homes without judicial warrants. The statement, she later said, was intended as a warning about potential dangers to both residents and law enforcement — not a call to violence. Republican lawmakers saw it differently. They accused Mayes of misrepresenting the law and stoking distrust of federal officers. Senate Majority Leader John Kavanagh, who sponsored the resolution, argued that her words could “lead to deadly misunderstandings.” The nonbinding measure, approved along party lines, asked Mayes to publicly correct her statements, reaffirm support for all levels of law enforcement, and resign from her post. Democrats in the Senate defended the attorney general, saying the outrage was politically driven. Minority Leader Priya Sundareshan said Republicans distorted Mayes’ words and ignored the larger point about public safety risks tied to ICE operations. The issue also placed Governor Katie Hobbs in a delicate position. While not joining GOP calls for resignation, Hobbs said Mayes’ remarks were “inappropriate” and should be retracted. Speaking to reporters, the governor emphasized that public officials must use “careful language” to avoid escalating tensions during an already volatile time for law enforcement. In a video statement released days later, Mayes pushed back on what she called “mischaracterizations” of her intent. She said her focus remained on preventing violent confrontations and ensuring the safety of officers and residents alike. Despite calls for her resignation, Mayes has maintained the backing of Democratic colleagues who argue that the controversy reflects deeper partisan divides over immigration and policing — issues that continue to shape Arizona’s political landscape.