OPINION — The Arizona Independent Party was formed to offer voters an alternative to the Democratic and Republican parties, particularly for Arizonans who value independence and equal access to the ballot.
Party chair Paul Johnson has said that equal access for candidates is central to the party’s mission. That principle deserves attention as the party approaches the 2026 gubernatorial race.
Teri Ann Hourihan filed a Statement of Interest with the Arizona Secretary of State in November 2025 as an AIP candidate for governor. Since then, she has been actively campaigning across Arizona, including rural communities, and is running a grassroots campaign supported by Clean Elections funding and small donors. Her candidacy has received coverage in community newspapers, including a recent profile in Show Low.
