The Arizona Police Association (APA) has announced its endorsement of Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) in the upcoming Arizona Senate race, marking a significant shift from their previous support for Republican Kari Lake during her 2022 gubernatorial campaign.
APA President Justin Harris praised Gallego, highlighting his background as a Marine combat veteran and his understanding of the intricacies of modern policing.
“As a Marine combat veteran, we know Congressman Gallego understands the complexities of modern policing in American society today, while at the same time recognizing the public’s expectations,” Arizona Police Association President Justin Harris said in a statement on the social platform X.
Harris emphasized the importance of endorsements, saying, “The APA does not take our endorsements lightly; we recognize the importance of having a U.S. senator that can bring people together to improve society for all.”
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Gallego’s legislative efforts, including his work on the Invest to Protect Act and the Enhancing COPS Hiring Program Grants for Local Law Enforcement Act, were noted as factors in the APA’s decision.
The APA had previously endorsed Lake in her 2022 gubernatorial bid against Gov. Katie Hobbs (D).
Despite this setback, Lake continues to receive backing from other law enforcement organizations, such as the Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs and the Arizona Law Enforcement Association.
Current Arizona polls, aggregated by Decision Desk HQ, show Gallego leading Lake by 48 percent to 42 percent.
Gallego expressed his gratitude for the APA’s support, stating, “I am proud to have the APA’s support and look forward to working with them in the Senate to ensure Arizona’s law enforcement officers have the resources necessary to combat fentanyl trafficking, train the next generation of officers, and, above all, keep Arizona families safe.”
