Proposition 131: Arizona could establish a lieutenant governor position for the first time in state history

• Proposition 131 would create a lieutenant governor position within the governor's office.
• A candidate for lieutenant governor would run on a joint ticket with a gubernatorial candidate.
• Proponents say that the measure would help assure a line of succession that aligns with voters' ideals.

A "yes" on Proposition 131 would create a lieutenant governor position in the state of Arizona.

Ballot measure details

Arizona is one of five states in the country that does not have a lieutenant governor. Proposition 131 would create this position and require that candidates for lieutenant governor run on a joint ticket with candidates for governor. The gubernatorial candidate would have to announce their choice for running mate 60 days prior to the general election.

The position would alter the order of succession should the governor die or leave office by making the lieutenant governor next in line. Historically, the secretary of state has succeeded the governor in the state of Arizona

Under this measure, the legislature would define the role of the lieutenant governor. The first election to select a lieutenant governor would be in 2026.

The law made its way to the ballot after the Republican-led Arizona Legislature passed Senate Concurrent Resolution 1024 in June of this year.

Support and opposition

Support for this measure comes from the Republican Party of Arizona, the League of Women Voters, and the National Lieutenant Governors Association. 

Supporters argue that adding a lieutenant governor position will keep Arizona in line with most of the country. Additionally, the role will establish a clear line of succession that stays within the governor's elected party.

There are no major groups opposing this.