Former IndyCar driver Danica Patrick has never shied away from speaking her mind when it comes to political issues, and this time, she has set her sights on Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs. Hobbs, who was appointed as Arizona’s 24th governor in January 2023, has faced considerable criticism over the past two years. However, things have taken a sharp turn for the worse in recent days following her veto of a bill that would have prohibited the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from purchasing real estate near military bases in Arizona.
The bill, SB 1109, was sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Janae Shamp, who wasted no time expressing her anger at Hobbs’ decision. Shamp called the veto a “disgrace,” and other prominent figures have voiced their frustration as well. Michael Lucci, CEO and founder of State Armor Action, also had harsh words for Hobbs. He described her veto as sending a dangerous signal, suggesting that it opened the door for the Chinese government to buy land near critical American assets like Luke Air Force Base, the Palo Verde nuclear power plant, and the expanding footprint of Taiwan Semiconductor.
“Governor Hobbs’ veto of SB 1109 has put a ‘Welcome mat for the CCP’ on the front door of Arizona, allowing the Chinese Communist Party to purchase land near vital assets,” Lucci told Fox News Digital. “Allowing the CCP to buy land near critical infrastructure is a clear national security risk, and Governor Hobbs was wrong to say that SB 1109 ‘was ineffective in counterintelligence and did not directly protect our military assets.’”
Adding fuel to the fire, Danica Patrick voiced her disapproval on social media. On Wednesday evening, she shared a post on Instagram expressing her frustration with Governor Hobbs. “Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed a bill banning the Chinese government and its state-owned enterprises from purchasing land in the state,” Patrick wrote, adding, “She’s the worst.”
Patrick’s criticism quickly resonated with many Arizona residents, who have since begun referring to Hobbs as “Commie Katie” due to her veto. The term has gained traction in local circles, reflecting the growing dissatisfaction with her stance on the bill. The controversy surrounding Hobbs has sparked a fierce debate, with people on both sides of the issue making their voices heard.
It remains to be seen how Governor Hobbs will respond to these mounting criticisms from figures like Danica Patrick and the citizens of Arizona. As the weekend approaches, all eyes will be on Hobbs to see if she addresses the backlash or remains silent amid this heated controversy.
