Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) has emerged victorious in a closely watched Senate race in a presidential battleground, defeating former newscaster Kari Lake.
By 9:52 p.m, Gallego secured 50 percent of the vote, while Lake trailed with 47.8 percent—a difference of 72,626 votes—according to The Associated Press.
Expressing gratitude, Gallego took to X shortly after the race was called at 9:50 p.m. on Nov. 11, stating, “Gracias, Arizona!”
As of the time of publication, Lake has not issued any public comments on the outcome.
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A strong supporter of former President Trump, Lake faced multiple legal setbacks in her efforts to challenge the results of the previous election, with the most recent ruling against her being in June.
Gallego, a Harvard University alumnus and U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served in Iraq, was elected to Congress in 2014 following his tenure in the Arizona House.
Both candidates emerged victorious in their respective primaries during the summer, positioning themselves to compete for the seat left vacant by Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), who opted not to seek reelection after leaving the Democratic Party during her term.
Lake criticized a Senate bipartisan bill proposed earlier in the year, arguing that it would encourage excessive illegal border crossings.
She expressed concerns about illegal immigrants taking jobs and housing, emphasizing her support for legal immigration.
On the other hand, Gallego defended the legislation, highlighting its potential to provide essential technology to border agents.
Polls conducted before the election consistently showed Gallego with a lead over Lake.
Both candidates delivered speeches at their respective party conventions over the summer.
In the lead-up to Election Day, Gallego distanced himself from a comment made by President Joe Biden that appeared to compare Trump supporters to garbage, emphasizing that no politician should speak about individuals in such a derogatory manner, regardless of their political affiliation.
