Gallego will be the first Latino to represent the state, filling the seat of Democrat turned independent senator Krysten Sinema

Summary

Democratic Congressman Ruben Gallego has won the Arizona Senate race, becoming the state’s first Latino senator and defeating far-right candidate Kari Lake.

Gallego will replace Kyrsten Sinema, a former Democrat turned independent who did not seek re-election.

Gallego’s lead in fundraising and consistent polling advantage helped secure his 50% to 48% victory. Lake struggled to attract moderate Republicans and independents, partly due to her past criticisms of John McCain.

This win gives Republicans a 52-47 Senate majority, as Democrats lost seats in West Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Montana.