Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey is taking over as the new chair of the Republican Governors Association (RGA).
The RGA announced on Wednesday that Ducey -- who has taken incoming fire from President Trump in recent weeks for upholding Arizona’s presidential election results, which show President-elect Joe Biden narrowly winning the state – will be joined by Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, who will serve as vice chair.
Ducey will serve for one year, steering the RGA during gubernatorial elections in New Jersey and Virginia, and with 36 governorships up for grabs in the 2022 contests.
“I look forward to building on the RGA's momentum as we work to expand the Republican majority,” Ducey said in a statement.
He added that he’s looking forward to working with Reynolds, as well as outgoing RGA chair Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas “and the Executive Committee to build a strong foundation for success in the 2021 and 2022 elections.”
“Governor Doug Ducey’s exemplary leadership in the great State of Arizona has prepared him well to assume the role of Chairman of the RGA, and I look forward to his accomplishments on behalf of our nation’s Republican Governors,” said outgoing RGA Chairman Governor Greg Abbott. “Following the RGA’s widespread success in the 2020 election, Republican Governors can count on Governor Ducey to maintain the organization’s effectiveness and help expand their majority even further.”
“I am honored to serve as the next Chairman of the RGA for this upcoming year. I look forward to building on the RGA’s momentum as we work to expand the Republican majority. In Arizona, we’ve put forward bold policy solutions and meaningful reforms that’s made our state one of the fastest-growing in the nation and we look forward to leading Republican Governors in bringing these reforms to the rest of our country,” said incoming RGA Chairman Governor Doug Ducey. “I want to congratulate my friend Governor Greg Abbott on his successful tenure, and I am excited to work with him and the Executive Committee to build a strong foundation for success in the 2021 and 2022 elections. I also am excited to serve with my good friend Governor Kim Reynolds, who has been a mentor for myself and my colleagues.”
“If the challenges of 2020 taught us anything, it’s that leadership matters. Republican Governors across our country stepped up during an unprecedented time and I am honored to be a part of this incredible team,” said incoming RGA Vice Chairwoman Governor Kim Reynolds. “Across the nation, Republican Governors are leading America’s economic comeback, working to grow jobs, expand opportunity, and keep our communities safe. I look forward to partnering with RGA Chairman Governor Ducey to grow our ranks and elect more Republican governors across the country.”
Joining Governor Ducey and Governor Reynolds on the RGA’s Executive Committee for 2021 are Governors Eric Holcomb of Indiana, Larry Hogan of Maryland, Charlie Baker of Massachusetts, Pete Ricketts of Nebraska, Doug Burgum of North Dakota, Henry McMaster of South Carolina, Kristi Noem of South Dakota, and Greg Abbott of Texas, who served as RGA Chair in 2020. Additionally, Governor Bill Lee of Tennessee was elected Policy Chairman, and Governor Tate Reeves of Mississippi was elected Policy Vice Chairman.
Background
Governor Ducey was first elected governor of Arizona in 2014. In 2018, he was reelected, expanding his margin of victory and earning more votes than any other governor in Arizona history. He is the former CEO of Cold Stone Creamery and has brought his business experience to state government.
Governor Reynolds is the 43rd governor of Iowa. She assumed the office in May 2017, when then-Governor Terry Branstad was appointed to serve as Ambassador to China. In 2018, Reynolds became the first female to ever be elected governor of the state. Prior to being governor, she served as lieutenant governor from 2011-2017 and previously served in the Iowa State Senate and in local county government.