How much is Hobbs' top staff paid?
These records are as of December 20, 2024.
After examining salaries in the Arizona Legislature, it’s time to take a look at another key branch of government — the governor’s office.
Thanks to newly obtained 2024 salary records, we can see how much the staffers who shape policies and manage state operations are earning under Gov. Katie Hobbs. From top leadership bringing in six-figure salaries to essential support roles keeping the office running, the data highlights pay disparities and potential shifts in the administration’s priorities.
And, of course, everyday Arizonans like you, dear gentle reader, and us at Fourth Estate 48 are footing the bill for these salaries through taxes.
Top Salaries in the Governor’s Office
The highest-paid staff member is Chad Campbell, the Chief of Staff, earning $206,960 — a 4% increase from his 2023 salary of $199,000.
Other top earners include:
Tracy Lopez (Deputy Chief of Staff, Outreach & Engagement), now makes $192,399, up from $184,999 in 2023.
William Gaona (Deputy Chief of Staff, Strategy) - $192,399 (Up from $190,000 in 2023)
Jennifer Loredo (Deputy Chief of Staff, Legislative, Policy, & Intergovernmental Affairs) - $192,399 (Up from $180,000 in 2023)
Kori Lorick (Deputy Chief of Staff, Strategic Operations) - $192,399 (Up from $160,000 in 2023)
Pena Lourdes (Deputy Chief of Staff, Legislative, Policy & External Affairs) - $192,399 (Up from $180,000 in 2023)
Sarah Brown (Director of OSPB) - $192,399 (Up from $180,000 in 2023)
Christian Slater (Director of Communications) - $192,399 (Up from $180,000 in 2023)
Benjamin Henderson (Director of Operations) - $195,000 (Up from $190,000 in 2023)
Sambo Dul (General Counsel) - $195,000 (Up from $190,000 in 2023)
Who Got the Biggest Raises?
Several staffers saw significant salary increases over the past year:
Kori Lorick (Deputy Chief of Staff, Strategic Operations) received a $32,399 raise (20% increase).
Jennifer Loredo (Deputy Chief of Staff, Legislative, Policy & Intergovernmental Affairs) received a $12,399 raise (7% increase).
Tracy Lopes (Deputy Chief of Staff, Outreach & Engagement) received a $7,400 raise (4% increase).
Sarah Brown (Director of OSPB) received a $12,399 raise (7% increase).
Christian Slater (Director of Communications) received a $12,399 raise (7% increase).
However, not all salaries saw major movement. Many lower-level positions, such as constituent advocates and administrative assistants, saw only minor increases or remained stagnant, underscoring the continued pay gap between top leadership and mid-level staff.
Overall Salary Analysis
Average salary: $110,345
Median salary: $95,000
The 2024 salary data shows that top executive staff members continue to see substantial raises, while lower-paid employees experience less movement in pay. These disparities highlight the administration’s compensation priorities, with leadership and senior advisors receiving the biggest bumps.
Meanwhile, interns and junior staff remain at relatively modest wages, reinforcing the stratification between high-level advisors and those who perform day-to-day governmental functions.