Attorney General Kris Mayes announced that she will not be filing charges against Governor Katie Hobbs over an alleged pay-to-play scheme. Hobbs was accused of granting Sunshine Residential Homes, a foster care group home provider, a substantial rate increase after the business contributed to her inaugural fund.
Sunshine gave $100,000 to Hobbs’ 2023 inaugural fund. The company also gave $300,000 to the Arizona Democratic Party during 2022–2023. Additional contributions, including from company principals Simon and Elizabeth Kottoor, and later contributions of $150,000 went to a Hobbs legal defense fund.
Senate President Warren Petersen (R-Gilbert), who is running against Mayes for attorney general, swiftly responded expressing his disagreement. “After dragging her feet on the pay-to-play allegations against her Democratic pal, Kris Mayes announced her refusal to hold Governor Katie Hobbs accountable for her actions,” Petersen said on X. “Mayes’ decision was predictable in an election season. She shamefully shifted accountability and protected her political ally, turning a blind eye to Hobbs’ misconduct. But we now know Sunshine Residential made $300,000 in political donations that benefited both Mayes and Hobbs in the midst of the “investigation.” Once again, Mayes has proven herself unfit to lead the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, putting politics ahead of enforcing the law.”
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