Arizona: Speculation Grows

​While Rep. Martha McSally (R-Tucson) conceded her US Senate battle to Rep. Kyrsten Sinema (D-Phoenix) on Monday, speculation is growing that she still may find herself in the Senate sooner rather than later.  Should Sen. Jon Kyl (R) resign after the lame duck session, as he indicated that he would when he accepted Gov. Doug Ducey’s (R) appointment, Rep. McSally would be in prime position for the next appointment.
 
In any event, the Arizona seat will be in special election mode during the 2020 regular cycle.  Sen. John McCain (R) was re-elected in 2016, meaning this seat will again come before the electorate for the six-year term in 2022.  Therefore, the appointed Senator must stand before the voters in the next regular election.  Among Democrats, two names are quickly surfacing as possible candidates.  Former Republican Attorney General Grant Woods, who is now a Democrat, and US Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Phoenix) are frequently being mentioned as possible special election contenders.