Arizona Democrat Ruben Gallego is strategically garnering Republican backing for his Senate campaign in a bid to build a winning coalition in the swing state. A list of Republican supporters, set to be unveiled, includes moderate Republicans and former Republicans who have held elected office or prominent roles in business and politics. Notably, some of these supporters are former aides to the late Sen. John McCain, a revered Arizona Republican known for his occasional defiance of party lines.
Gallego's opponent, Kari Lake, a former television news anchor and staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump, has faced criticism for her past remarks about Sen. McCain, whom she once referred to as a “loser.”
Arizona has seen a shift in political dynamics with Democrats making significant strides in a state long dominated by the GOP. Despite having more registered Republican voters, Democrats like Sen. Mark Kelly and Gov. Katie Hobbs have secured narrow victories by maintaining party unity, winning over independents, and attracting a notable portion of disenchanted Republicans disapproving of the direction the GOP has taken under Trump.
Lake has positioned herself as a conservative alternative, accusing Gallego of being a liberal Democrat out of touch with Arizona's moderate electorate. She has criticized his alignment with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, attributing inflation to legislation he supported and opposing his stance on eliminating the Senate filibuster.
Gallego, a Marine veteran who served in Iraq, is leveraging his military background and humble upbringing to broaden his appeal beyond his traditionally Democratic district in Phoenix. He emphasizes his willingness to challenge the Biden administration, particularly on border policies, and advocates for abolishing the filibuster to advance voting rights and other key priorities.
Among the Republicans endorsing Gallego is Mesa Mayor John Giles, who has been vocal in supporting Democratic candidates over Trump and his allies. Giles expressed concern over extremists within the GOP, like Lake, who he believes are jeopardizing American values.
Gallego's military service and bipartisan endorsements are central to his campaign strategy, aiming to resonate with voters across party lines. Former McCain aide Paul Hickman, a lifelong Republican, commended Gallego's dedication to serving the country and state.
Despite Lake's victory in the GOP primary, her relatively narrow margin against Sheriff Mark Lamb has raised questions about the solidity of her Republican support. Lake has extended an olive branch to her detractors, signaling a more inclusive approach compared to her previous political endeavors.
This Senate race in Arizona underscores the diverse political landscape and the evolving dynamics within the state's electorate, setting the stage for a closely contested campaign between Gallego and Lake.
