Ruben Gallego Makes History as Arizona’s First Latino U.S. Senator, Sworn In This Friday

Democrat Ruben Gallego is set to be sworn in on Friday, making history as Arizona’s first Latino U.S. senator. In a press call on Thursday, he expressed pride in representing his state. “I am proud to be the first Latino U.S. senator in the history of Arizona, and I will make all of Arizona proud,” he stated.

Gallego replaces Kyrsten Sinema, who transitioned from the Democratic Party to independent status and chose not to seek reelection after her first term. He highlighted the importance of recent events, offering condolences to victims of a terrorist attack in New Orleans and praising the police for their quick response.

Addressing President-elect Donald Trump’s stance on mass deportations of undocumented immigrants, Gallego indicated uncertainty about future policies. “All we’re hearing is different views, but we actually haven’t heard any plans,” he remarked. While campaigning, he noted that many constituents expressed a desire for increased border security and the presence of Customs and Border Patrol agents, though they opposed family separations and other harsh measures.

Gallego committed to collaborating with both parties and the administration on immigration reform. “We’re not automatically knee-jerk reject anything that comes from the White House,” he said, emphasizing a balanced approach to future policies.

In the 119th Congress, Gallego will serve on four Senate committees: Banking, Energy and Natural Resources, Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, and Veterans’ Affairs. He acknowledged the significance of the Homeland Security Committee, aiming for enhanced investments in border security and law enforcement.

A marine veteran, Gallego is particularly focused on veterans’ issues, having utilized VA services himself. He also aims to address Arizona’s pending housing crisis through his role on the Banking Committee. “Everywhere I went, people were complaining about the lack of housing in Arizona,” he noted, highlighting rural and urban challenges alike.

In addition, Gallego plans to tackle water security and energy needs via the Natural Resources Committee, advocating for innovative technologies like small modular reactors to meet Arizona’s demands.

Gallego defeated Republican Kari Lake, who will lead Voice of America under the Trump administration. He extended good wishes to Lake, noting her media experience. “I hope she has learned that misinformation is not appreciated by Americans,” he stated regarding her new role.

Meanwhile, Arizona’s senior senator, Democrat Mark Kelly, continues his work on multiple committees, including Armed Services and Intelligence, as his office confirmed. The state’s political landscape is evolving as Gallego prepares to take on his new responsibilities.