Grand Canyon Times

Gov. Doug Ducey (R-Ariz.) was forced to skip a recent visit by former Vice President Mike Pence after Ducey tested positive for COVID-19.

“Gov. Ducey has tested positive for COVID-19,” C.J. Karamargin, Ducey’s director of communications, told KTAR. “He is asymptomatic and feeling well, but will not be attending the border tour and policy address with Vice President Mike Pence today.”

Karamargin said though it is regrettable, Ducey’s contraction of COVID is not a surprise. He added that Ducey is tested regularly, regardless of whether or not he has symptoms. 

“As governor, he comes into contact with quite a few people on a regular basis," Karamargin told AzCentral. "Fairly regularly getting tested is part of the routine.”  

Ducey’s office expressed regret that the governor was unable to witness Pence’s visit.

“The governor welcomes Vice President Pence to Arizona and thanks him for his continued advocacy of border security,” Karamargin said.

Ducey had planned to be present while Pence presented a speech on border security issues at the Arizona Commerce Authority in Phoenix. Ducey also planned to join Pence on a tour of the Arizona/Mexico border, KTAR reported.

One attendee, Tim Roemer, shared some information regarding Pence’s visit. Roemer is director of the Arizona Department of Homeland Security.

“VP @Mike_Pence knows a thing or two about border security,” Roemer said in a Twitter post. “It’s an honor to host him on behalf of Gov @DougDucey in Arizona today & highlight our strong border security efforts to combat the cartels while the Biden administration is missing in action.”