Democrat David Garcia announced Wednesday he’s challenging Republican Gov. Doug Ducey in his bid for re-election.
Garcia said he decided to run for office after the governor signed legislation expanding the state’s school voucher program.
Garcia is an ASU professor and former assistant superintendent with the Department of Education.
And he is no stranger to politics. Garcia lost a tight race for Superintendent of Public Instruction to Republican Diane Douglas in 2014.
“Gov. Ducey landed the most devastating blow to public education in state history," Garcia said. "He signed a voucher bill that, make no mistake, will drain hundreds of millions of dollars away from our public schools."
When asked about Garcia’s bid, Ducey did not appear too concerned.
"You know, I think that campaign seasons are entirely too long," Ducey said. "And so we can talk about that next year. I do intend to stand on my record of action and accomplishments."
Still, Ducey is preparing for the 2018 race. The most recent campaign finance reports show he has raised more than $348,000.
Democratic state Sen. Steve Farley is also considering a challenge to Ducey.