Kathy Hoffman wins Arizona’s top education seat

Kathy Hoffman (D) has defeated Republican Frank Riggs for Arizona superintendent of public instruction, according to the Associated Press.

On Nov. 11, Hoffman declared herself the victor in a statement saying, “This victory is not just about me or my campaign. It’s about the thousands of teachers and educators who lead our public schools every day. We did this together. We did this because the future of Arizona starts in our public schools. Words cannot express my gratitude.”

This victory is not just about me, my campaign or the volunteers who spent countless hours supporting my vision. It's…

Posted by Kathy Hoffman for Superintendent on Sunday, November 11, 2018

However, the official announcement was made Monday, Nov. 12 after five counties dropped more ballot results. At the time of the announcement, Hoffman led Riggs by 54,057 votes.

“[I’m] so grateful for this moment!” Hoffman tweeted Monday evening. “Thank you to everyone who helped #TeamHoffman achieve this victory…I look forward to leading the Department of Education.”

Riggs posted his concession to his facebook page on Tuesday Nov. 13 saying in short, “I congratulate Ms. Hoffman and the other successful Democratic candidates…I ran for Supt. of Public Instruction in order to help fix what is tangibly wrong with our schools…I stood strong for improving the safety of our schools and for the fundamental right of parents to choose and direct their child’s education…Now, I get to resume my life as a private citizen, enjoy the beautiful Arizona outdoors again, shake the rust off my golf game, and most of all, relish every moment with my precious grandchildren.”

As the historic number of mail-in and drop-off ballots continue to be counted, I congratulate Ms. Hoffman and the other…

Posted by Frank Riggs on Tuesday, November 13, 2018

Riggs is a former congressman, Army veteran and CEO of Charter Schools Development Corporation. Hoffman is a former preschool teacher and speech therapist. This will be her first time serving in elected office.

“We did this together. We did this because we know that educators are the true experts of education. I am truly humbled by your support and am excited to put in the work necessary to shape the Department of Education into an institution that serves students, families and educators alike,” Hoffman said.

Emily Richardson

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