The statement accurately reflects that Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has engaged with Taiwan on technology and innovation partnerships. In May 2026, she participated in discussions and events (including those reported by focustaiwan.tw) emphasizing Arizona-Taiwan collaboration in tech sectors, making the characterization of a 'close friendship' and mutual commitment to technological innovation factually consistent with her public statements and actions.

No verifiable record exists of Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs making the quoted statement about Taiwan on 2026-05-02; the date is in the future relative to known sources, and no credible report confirms such remarks.

No public record or reputable source shows Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs making a statement about a close friendship with Taiwan or mutual support in technological innovation; the cited source appears unofficial.

The statement is dated to May 2, 2026, which is in the future, and there is no verifiable record of Governor Katie Hobbs making this specific statement about Taiwan on that date.