GOP Senate Hopeful Mark Finchem Joins Antisemitic Talk Show Host for Controversial Discussion

Mark Finchem, a former Republican lawmaker and candidate for the Arizona Senate, recently appeared on a controversial talk show hosted by Scott McKay, notorious for promoting conspiracy theories and antisemitic sentiments. This appearance coincided with the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Finchem, who previously ran unsuccessfully for Secretary of State in 2022 but secured the Republican primary for Legislative District 1 this past July, has built a reputation surrounding claims of election fraud and conspiracy theories. His connections to extremist groups, particularly the Oath Keepers, reflect a pattern of controversial associations.

During his September 11 appearance on McKay’s show, streamed on Rumble, Finchem engaged in discussions that have drawn significant criticism. McKay, often referred to as “Patriot Streetfighter,” has a history of espousing antisemitic beliefs. His previous remarks include conspiracies linking Jewish people to the instigation of World War II and making dubious claims about political manipulation.

Finchem, however, did not provide any comment when approached about his appearance or McKay’s statements. Critics were quick to denounce his choice to participate in the show. Media Matters for America senior investigative reporter Eric Hananoki noted the troubling nature of accepting help from someone who praises historically recognized figures like Adolf Hitler.

On the show, Finchem promoted an “investigation” being undertaken by a non-profit he leads. This probe focuses on alleged misconduct within the Millersville Police Department in Tennessee following a raid by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). The investigation is linked to Assistant Police Chief Shawn Taylor, who had recently appeared on McKay’s program.

Local district attorneys disclosed to NewsChannel 5 that the TBI’s inquiry was prompted by potential abuses of law enforcement databases. This includes allegations of perjury by a detective involved in a troubled sting operation. Both Finchem and McKay expressed their disdain for those intertwined in the investigation.

McKay went so far as to warn participants in the alleged corruption to step aside, asserting that accountability was imminent. Their conversations also drifted into broader conspiracy theories, including accusations against government entities and media networks, suggesting connections to more nefarious activities.

Throughout the interview, references to the QAnon conspiracy theory emerged, depicting an elaborate narrative of powerful entities manipulating societal structures. McKay invoked “intelligence drops,” referencing messages from the infamous “Q,” further entrenching their rhetoric in conspiracy-driven dialogue.

Finchem echoed numerous unfounded claims during the discussion, alleging ties between key figures in the Tennessee case and child trafficking while reiterating baseless accusations against law enforcement agents. He even claimed to possess DNA evidence related to a bizarre allegation concerning a TBI agent.

His patterns of engaging with fringe groups and ideologies have drawn sharp criticism from community leaders. Alan Zeichick, chair of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Phoenix, expressed concern regarding Finchem’s associations, urging District 1 voters to reject bigotry and hate in their leadership choices.

Hananoki also highlighted that it wouldn’t have required much effort for Finchem to uncover McKay’s extremist views, noting similar disavowals from prominent figures like Eric Trump. This ongoing pattern of extremism linking Finchem to various controversial or dangerous ideologies continues to raise alarms about his potential influence in Arizona politics.