Ruben Gallego Tackles Political Cynicism in Bold Bid for Arizona’s Senate Seat

Just days after his Republican opponent was confirmed in the primary election, U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego met Tucson Mayor Regina Romero at Hotel Congress. The two conversed in Spanish briefly before heading to the patio to record a video announcing Romero’s endorsement of Gallego’s Senate campaign. Gallego, with Romero by his side, criticized the “political cynicism” of Kari Lake and Donald Trump.

Eighteen months ago, Gallego launched his Senate campaign at the same venue, initially challenging U.S. Sen. Krysten Sinema in the Democratic primary. Sinema, however, declared herself an independent after facing dwindling funds and the collapse of a bipartisan border bill. In March, Sinema announced she would not seek a second term, citing a misalignment with America’s current desires.

This announcement returned the race to a head-to-head between Gallego and the Republican primary winner, Kari Lake, who beat Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb by nearly 13 percentage points. Since January 2023, Gallego has toured the state extensively, following his “go everywhere and talk to everyone” campaign strategy. He visited all 22 of the state’s tribes and recently toured an advanced manufacturing facility at Pima County Community College.

“It’s been a long journey,” Gallego told the Tucson Sentinel. “I’ve met Democrats, Republicans, and independents all over the state.” Gallego emphasized his commitment to meeting all federally-recognized tribes. “I’ve visited Pima County and Tucson so many times I’ve lost count,” he added. Gallego noted that hearing the struggles of average Arizonans has put his campaign challenges into perspective.

Voters have expressed concerns about abortion rights, water security, and the cost of living. “People are scared about women losing control over their bodies,” Gallego said, adding that these worries extend to men who are concerned for their loved ones. He also highlighted issues of democracy and veterans’ care, noting his struggle with PTSD and the improvements needed in the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Gallego mentioned the importance of holistic veteran care, including benefits, job training, and housing. He praised VA Secretary Denis McDonough’s efforts but acknowledged more work is required. Gallego criticized Kari Lake’s campaign as negative and divisive, contrasting it with his own hopeful and inclusive vision for Arizona.

Romero supported Gallego by contrasting him with Lake and Trump, criticizing Lake’s connection to Project 2025 and the Heritage Foundation’s controversial policy goals. Romero argued that Gallego is focused on protecting Medicare, Social Security, and education, while Lake is still contesting the 2022 gubernatorial race.

Lake has repeatedly failed to prove electoral misconduct in her narrow loss to Gov. Katie Hobbs, leading to disciplinary actions against her attorneys. Despite launching her Senate campaign, Lake continues to claim she is Arizona’s “lawful governor.”

Gallego further critiqued political cynicism, condemning Vance’s recent border wall visit and attacks on the Biden administration. Despite a recent policy success in lowering migration numbers, Vance and other Republicans continue to cast blame. Gallego blamed Trump’s influence for the collapse of a bipartisan border bill that had garnered significant support.

Gallego also spoke on the DREAM Act, which has faced legislative hurdles for years. Despite popular and Congressional support, filibuster rules have stalled its passage. Gallego committed to passing the DREAM Act and reforming the filibuster if necessary. The current filibuster structure had also cost Sinema her Senate seat, with Democrats criticizing it for stalling significant legislative efforts.

“When I get to the Senate, we are going to pass the DREAM Act,” Gallego said, clearly aligning his campaign with reformist legislative goals.