Arizona Republican Kari Lake has won the Senate primary and will face off against Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego in a crucial battle for control of the Senate. Lake is competing for the seat of retiring Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, an independent who caucuses with Democrats. With the endorsement of the Senate Republican campaign arm, Lake defeated Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb and neuroscientist Elizabeth Reye in the primary. Gallego faced no opposition for the Democratic nomination.
Lake, a former news anchor and staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, is known for promoting falsehoods about election fraud. Despite losing the 2022 governor’s race, she is now preparing to challenge Gallego in the general election. Gallego, a retired Marine representing a deep-blue Phoenix-area seat, began his campaign before Sinema announced her retirement. Sinema, the first Democrat in 30 years to win a Senate contest in Arizona, leaves behind a competitive race for her seat.
President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek reelection and the emergence of Vice President Kamala Harris as the presumptive Democratic nominee have shaken up the political landscape, impacting races like the one in Arizona. Republicans have focused their attacks on Harris’s handling of border security, a significant issue in Arizona. However, polls indicate Harris may have stronger appeal than Biden among key demographics, potentially benefiting Gallego in the fast-growing Sun Belt state.
Despite doubts from GOP donors and strategists about Lake’s chances, a recent poll found Gallego leading among registered Arizona voters. Lake’s confrontations with fellow Republicans and refusal to accept past election results have raised concerns. However, if Trump performs well in Arizona, he may be able to boost Lake’s chances of victory. Gallego, a former member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, has positioned himself as a moderate through his campaign ads, emphasizing his military service and efforts to reduce costs for families.
Financially, Gallego has an advantage heading into the general election, with $8.2 million in campaign funds compared to Lake’s $2.1 million. Despite this, the race remains competitive, with both candidates seeking to appeal to voters in a state that has become a focal point in the battle for Senate control. The outcome of this race will have significant implications for the balance of power in the Senate, making it one of the most closely watched contests this fall.
