Democrats in Arizona are growing increasingly impatient as the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) remains “neutral” on the unfolding Senate race between bisexual Senator Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) and her opponent, Representative Ruben Gallego (D-AZ). While Sinema has not officially declared her intention to run for re-election in 2024, she filed paperwork for a potential candidacy in April 2023, fueling speculation about the upcoming race.
The uncertainty surrounding Sinema’s political affiliation adds an extra layer of concern for Democrats. Sinema, who left the Democratic Party to become an Independent last December, could potentially split Democratic voters in the 2024 Arizona Senate race, inadvertently aiding an anti-LGBTQ+ Republican candidate to secure the seat.
While Senate Democrats are treading carefully not to upset Sinema, given the need for her support to pass critical Democratic measures, this approach appears to conflict with several realities. Notably, Sinema’s votes have sometimes aligned with Senate Republicans, leading to the defeat of Democratic bills. Additionally, majorities of Arizona voters across all political parties have expressed their dissatisfaction with her.
Luis Avila, an advisor to the Replace Sinema political action committee (PAC), which is actively organizing to defeat Sinema, warns that the Democrats’ hesitancy is proving risky. Avila highlights the challenges it poses for fundraising, campaign organization, and media strategy development against Sinema. The reluctance to take decisive action has also deterred significant donors from supporting Gallego’s campaign, sending a mixed message about the DSCC’s commitment to ensure his victory.
Nonetheless, grassroots donors have rallied behind Gallego, with the Replace Sinema PAC gaining traction and receiving support from influential figures like Rep. Dan Goldman (D-NY) and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), who attended a virtual fundraiser for Gallego in late June.
In the second quarter of 2023, Sinema raised $1.3 million, largely from big donors and PACs, whereas Gallego managed to amass over $3 million during the same period, primarily through small online contributions. Despite the fundraising disparity, Sinema holds an additional $10 million in unspent campaign funds.
As Republicans gear up for the race, with Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb already having declared his candidacy and the prospect of failed anti-LGBTQ+ gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake entering the fray, Democrats must address their internal divisions to mount a strong campaign.
Regarding Peters’ “neutral” stance, DSCC spokesperson Maeve Coyle expressed confidence in thwarting Republican efforts to claim the Senate seat, citing previous successful outcomes in Arizona during the last three election cycles.
As the 2024 Arizona Senate race looms ahead, Democrats are left navigating a delicate balance between preserving party unity, courting influential donors, and addressing concerns over the potential impact of Sinema’s candidacy on the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.
