Arizona’s 2026 governor’s race gained an unconventional participant this week as comedian and actor Tim Heidecker launched a satirical campaign under the fictional persona “New Amato.”
The campaign, which appears intended as political satire rather than a traditional bid for elected office, promotes what Heidecker calls the “New Party” and offers commentary on Arizona’s political landscape through videos, campaign materials, and a dedicated website.
New Amato’s campaign takes aim at candidates from both major parties. In campaign materials, the fictional candidate refers to Gov. Katie Hobbs as “demonic” while mocking Republican gubernatorial candidate Andy Biggs by calling him “Andy Piggs.”
Despite criticizing both parties, New Amato does not present himself as ideologically opposed to Republicans. In campaign materials, the fictional candidate states that he generally agrees with the Republican Party’s platform but believes Arizona’s current candidates are incapable of effectively carrying out those policies. That belief serves as the basis for his decision to launch the New Party.
The campaign arrives as Arizona’s gubernatorial race continues taking shape ahead of the 2026 election. Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs is expected to seek reelection while Republican Congressman Andy Biggs has emerged as one of the state’s highest-profile challengers.
Among the policy debates already emerging in the race is Biggs’ proposal to eliminate Arizona’s state income tax. Supporters argue the plan would improve Arizona’s economic competitiveness and provide relief to taxpayers, while opponents question its effect on state revenues and government services.
While New Amato is unlikely to appear on the ballot as a serious contender, the campaign highlights growing frustration with traditional political institutions and continues a long tradition of using satire to comment on American politics.
