Gov. Katie Hobbs, locked in a competitive re-election battle, plans to tap a moderate former mayor of Mesa, Ariz., John Giles, to serve as her lieutenant governor if she wins in November.

The unexpected bipartisan ticket represents a strategic gamble by Hobbs to appeal to centrist and independent voters in a state where Republicans hold a registration advantage. Giles, 67, served as mayor of Mesa from 2012 to 2021 and ran unsuccessfully for governor in 2022, losing the Republican primary to Kari Lake.

If elected, Giles would bring name recognition and moderate credentials to the ticket. His selection signals Hobbs' effort to break through partisan divides ahead of a closely watched race that could influence control of the U.S. Senate.

The move has drawn praise from some independents and criticism from progressives who worry it may alienate Democratic base voters. The general election is scheduled for November 5, 2024.