Early voting is underway for Arizona’s November 3 General Election. The voter registration deadline was October 5, and early in-person voting continues through October 30. Early ballots should be mailed no later than October 27th to ensure they arrive on time and can be signature verified prior to election day. Voters can find election information and county voting resources through the Secretary of State’s website.
The election results will shape the political landscape for the 2027 legislative session, including negotiations over the state budget and major policy proposals.
State Revenues Exceed Budget Forecast
According to JLBC’s October Monthly Fiscal Highlights, September General Fund revenues totaled approximately $1.70 billion, exceeding the enacted budget forecast by $56 million.Through the first three months of FY 2027, revenues were approximately $93 million above forecast. Nationally, the real U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased at by 2.2% during the 2nd quarter of 2026, according to an estimate by the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA).
October Financial Advisory Committee: Budget Pressures Remain
The October 8th Financial Advisory Committee forecast projects General Fund ending balances of approximately $173 million in FY 2027, $61 million in FY 2028, and $52 million in FY 2029, leaving little flexibility for new spending.
Those balances assume approximately $590 million in expenditures funded on a one-time basis will not continue, and renewing those commitments would create a projected shortfall. The forecast also excludes the state’s approximately $1.6 billion rainy day fund. Maintaining existing services will therefore compete with new funding requests as lawmakers develop the next budget.
Arizona Joins Colorado River Litigation
On October 16, Governor Hobbs and the Arizona Department of Water Resources announced that Arizona had joined Nevada’s lawsuit challenging federal Colorado River management decisions. According to the Governor’s Office, Arizona is seeking to protect Lower Basin water supplies and require additional Upper Basin deliveries to Lake Mead while preserving a negotiated agreement with California and Nevada. Read the state’s announcement here.
Looking Ahead
In the weeks following the election, lawmakers will hold internal caucus meetings to elect legislative leaders, followed by committee chair assignments and preparations for the 2027 session.
As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team if you need anything at all.