Jobs numbers become focus as Arizona heads toward statewide election

PHOENIX – Arizona hit its highest unemployment figure in November since the end of the COVID pandemic and the recession it caused.

The 4.3% seasonally adjusted rate is not that much higher than the prior numbers. And it still is three-tenths of a point below the figure for the same month nationally.

But the numbers are being closely watched as they come as Arizona is headed into a statewide election, with the bid by incumbent Gov. Katie Hobbs to get another four-year term.