Republican Kari Lake faced off against Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego in a highly anticipated debate on Wednesday night as they compete for Arizona's U.S. Senate being vacated by Kyrsten Sinema. The debate, marked by sharp exchanges, showcased both candidates' contrasting views while also serving as a platform for personal attacks.
Lake launched a barrage of accusations against Gallego, claiming he underwent "an extreme makeover" by shifting from a progressive stance in the House to a more moderate position aimed at attracting a broader voter base, including Republicans. She particularly criticized him on immigration, alleging he was too lenient on border security. "Ruben Gallego has supported—every step of the way—Kamala Harris, the border czar, and Joe Biden's open border," Lake said during a passage of the debate.
Gallego defended his record, highlighting his support for increasing border agents in Arizona. He countered Lake's criticisms by accusing her of prioritizing political maneuvering over bipartisan border solutions. "You've been to Mar-a-Lago more than you have been to the border," he retorted.
Lake, known for her vocal support of former President Trump's baseless claim regarding him not losing the 2020 election and her contentious relationship with Arizona's Republican establishment, faced division within her party during her failed run for governor two years ago. Entering the debate, she trailed behind Mr. Gallego in all polls and fundraising efforts.
Gallego raised almost $22 million in the third quarter of fundraising, with donations of $100 or less representing 95% of the amount, his campaign announced this month.
Throughout the debate, Lake attempted personal jabs, referencing Gallego's father, a convicted drug dealer, and accusing him of using recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program as "political pawns." Gallego chose not to engage with the personal attack but suggested that Trump's distancing from Lake reflected her lagging position in the race.
Gallego did recently addressed his father's illegal activities, saying his father, who abandoned his family, is indeed a convicted drug dealer. "it's a stain my family has had to carry. and this is why my mom, my sisters and myself have worked our entire lives to live the American dream and to serve and honor the country despite what he has done," he said.
"But this is who Kari Lake is. She attacks families when she's losing. Because she is, she is a pathetic loser. We've seen what happened with the McCain family. We've seen it happen with other families here," Gallego added. He went on to criticize the fact that "all it takes is craven politicians like Kari Lake to drag us all down" despite doing "everything right."
Back to the debate, Gallego pointed out that Lake had changed her stance on abortion, shifting from being a strong opponent to claiming she would not support a federal ban, as described by The New York Times. Lake, in turn, attempted to discredit Gallego by bringing up past harassment allegations against him, which had been dismissed. "Whenever she doesn't have an answer, she just goes for personal attacks," Gallego remarked, noting that one accuser now supports his campaign.
Gallego's strongest argument reiterated his concern over Lake's refusal to accept the results of the 2022 gubernatorial election, which she falsely claims to have won. "She's failed the basic test of honesty," he stated, linking it to issues of trust regarding women's rights.
During a discussion on climate and water policy, Gallego pressed Lake again, asking, "Can you finally tell the people of Arizona: Did you win or lose that election?" Lake deflected, shifting the conversation back to water issues.
The latest survey, conducted by SoCal Strategies, On Point Politics, and Red Eagle Politics between October 5 and 7 and sponsored by the Republican Party, polled 735 likely voters. The results show Gallego with 51% support, compared to Lake's 39%.
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