In a significant political move, Kari Lake, the former Republican contender for Arizona’s gubernatorial position, has officially thrown her hat into the ring for the U.S. Senate. This announcement, made on October 10, was immediately followed by a robust endorsement from former President Donald Trump.
After contemplating a Senate run for some time, Lake unveiled her 2024 campaign ambitions to an enthusiastic crowd in Scottsdale. The seat she’s vying for is occupied by Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, who transitioned from the Democratic Party to an independent stance last December. Sinema’s future political plans remain undisclosed.
Lake’s campaign kickoff was nothing short of dramatic. Before she took the stage, a video was showcased, highlighting the former TV news anchor’s strong stance against “fake news” and the “leftist agenda.” When Lake, 54, finally addressed her supporters, she didn’t hold back. Over almost an hour, she tackled a range of pressing issues: President Joe Biden’s policies, the escalating gas prices, the border crisis, and the recent attacks on Israel by the terrorist group Hamas.
Lake’s sentiments were clear: “With Biden at the helm, our nation is on a dangerous path. It’s high time he returns to Delaware. The world has had enough.” She further emphasized Arizona’s border issues, describing it as an “invasion” with countless individuals and harmful drugs entering the U.S. The recent events in Israel were termed “horrific attacks on the innocent.”
Lake didn’t shy away from pointing fingers. She attributed the empowerment of Hamas to the questionable deals made by Biden and former President Barack Obama. However, she also took a moment to express her solidarity with Israel.
In her concluding remarks, Lake’s commitment to the nation was evident. “I won’t back down. I’m ready to stand tall for America, and I know you’re with me as I officially declare my candidacy for the U.S. Senate,” she proclaimed.
Lake fondly reminisced about the Trump era, expressing her longing for the former President’s leadership. This sentiment was reciprocated with a pre-recorded message from Trump, wholeheartedly endorsing Lake for the Senate. Trump praised her resilience and fighting spirit, emphasizing her importance in the Senate when he returns to the White House.
It’s worth noting that Lake’s Senate bid comes after her narrow defeat in the 2022 Arizona gubernatorial race against Democrat Gov. Katie Hobbs. While Lake has expressed concerns over election integrity, she focused on the future during her speech. “Despite setbacks, I believe there’s a greater plan in store for us,” she shared with her supporters.
The Senate race in Arizona is heating up. Alongside Lake, Republican Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb and Democrat Rep. Ruben Gallego have announced their candidacies. A recent poll by National Research Inc. indicates a promising start for Lake, placing her ahead in a three-way race against Gallego and Sinema.
Arizona’s political landscape is crucial for the nation. As one of the pivotal U.S. states, it holds one of the eight competitive seats that Democrats will be defending, aiming to maintain their slim 51-49 Senate majority.