Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has appointed Michael Beyer, a controversial figure known for making inflammatory comments against white people, as her 2026 reelection campaign communications director. Beyer's history of targeting various demographics, including white Republicans and liberals, with allegations of white supremacy and entitlement, has sparked criticism. His social media posts have included accusations against the 'religious right' and prominent figures like Bernie Sanders and Taylor Swift. This appointment adds to the series of staffing controversies in Hobbs' administration, marked by high turnover and previous dismissals over offensive social media activity. Despite the backlash, there has been no response from Hobbs or Beyer regarding reconsideration of his appointment.

Michael Beyer has been hired by Governor Katie Hobbs as the communications director for her 2026 reelection campaign, despite his history of making derogatory remarks about white people across political spectrums.

Beyer's controversial statements have included accusations that the 'religious right' is unified by white supremacy and have criticized individuals like Bernie Sanders and Taylor Swift for perpetuating 'white entitlement' and colonial romanticism.

His social media activity has not only targeted white Republicans but also white liberals, suggesting that Sanders' success in New Hampshire was due to the state's racial demographics.

Hobbs' decision to hire Beyer comes amid a backdrop of staffing instability in her administration, characterized by high turnover and previous terminations due to similar incendiary behavior on social media.

In 2022, significant staff turnover was reported in Hobbs' gubernatorial campaign, with two-thirds of the team leaving, citing an 'emotionally abusive' work environment.

Beyer has also made anti-gay comments directed at gay white Republicans and has critiqued mainstream media for overrepresentation of white men in historical contexts.

Despite the controversies surrounding Beyer's appointment, neither he nor the Hobbs campaign have publicly addressed the criticisms or indicated any plans to reconsider his role.