Former Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich Dies at 59

Phoenix, Arizona — January 13, 2026 — Mark Brnovich, the Republican who served as Arizona's 26th Attorney General from 2015 to 2023, has passed away at the age of 59. His family announced the news in a statement Tuesday, expressing profound sorrow and gratitude for the widespread support pouring in from across the state and nation.

"It is with profound sorrow that the Brnovich family announces the passing of Mark Brnovich," the family said. "Best known as Arizona’s 26th Attorney General, a state and federal prosecutor, and champion of justice, he will forever be remembered and cherished by us as a beloved father, husband, son, and brother. We are heartbroken with this loss and are deeply moved by the outpouring of love and support from so many wonderful people across the state and country."

Brnovich, born November 25, 1966, in Detroit, Michigan, to Serbian immigrant parents who fled communism in the former Yugoslavia, grew up in Phoenix after his family relocated there. A first-generation American, he earned his bachelor's degree in political science from Arizona State University and a Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego School of Law. His early career included service as a prosecutor in the Maricopa County Attorney's Office, roles as an Assistant Attorney General for Arizona, and as Director of the Arizona Department of Gaming.

Elected Attorney General in 2014 after defeating incumbent Tom Horne in a contentious Republican primary, Brnovich went on to win re-election in 2018, serving two terms as the state's top law enforcement officer. During his tenure, he became known for high-profile legal actions, including defending Arizona's election processes in 2020 (despite later political tensions), reviving the state's death penalty executions after a long hiatus, challenging federal policies on immigration and environmental regulations, and participating in national lawsuits against aspects of the Affordable Care Act and Biden administration initiatives.

In his final year in office, three Death Row inmates were executed—the most in Arizona in over a decade—reflecting Brnovich's strong support for capital punishment.After term limits ended his time as Attorney General, Brnovich ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate in 2022, finishing third in the Republican primary won by Blake Masters.

More recently, in March 2025, President Donald Trump nominated Brnovich to serve as U.S. Ambassador to Serbia, a role tied to his Serbian heritage. The nomination was later withdrawn in October 2025.Brnovich is survived by his wife, U.S. District Judge Susan Brnovich, and their two daughters. Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, including from former Governor Doug Ducey, who called him a "happy warrior" with infectious positivity, and current Attorney General Kris Mayes, who expressed sadness over his sudden passing and acknowledged his years of dedicated public service.

A cause of death has not been officially confirmed by the family, though some reports indicate it was a heart attack. Funeral arrangements and memorial details are expected to be shared in the coming days.

Arizona has lost a longtime public servant whose career spanned decades of prosecution and policy advocacy. Flags in the state are expected to fly at half-staff in his honor.

17GEN4.com