PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Commission Appointment Recommendation Board has forwarded the names of two candidates to the Office of Governor Katie Hobbs for consideration in filling the upcoming 2026 vacancy on the Arizona Game and Fish Commission.

Patrick Cooley of Yuma and Jessica Manuell of Parks were selected from six candidates interviewed by the board at its public meeting on Nov. 6 at the Arizona Game and Fish Department headquarters in Phoenix.

The governor's nominee, pending confirmation by the Arizona Senate, will replace Clay Hernandez, whose 5-year term expires at the end of this year.

Per Arizona State Statute 17-202, the Arizona Game and Fish Commission Appointment Recommendation Board shall assist the governor by interviewing, evaluating and recommending candidates for appointment to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission. The board shall recommend at least two, but no more than five, candidates to the governor. The governor must select and appoint a commissioner from the list submitted by the board.

Commissioners, once confirmed by the Arizona Senate, serve 5-year terms.

For more information on the Arizona Game and Fish Commission, click here. For more information on the Governor’s Office of Boards and Commissions, click here.