Staff Reports
In a move that has rattled the conservative Arizona community, Democrat Santa Cruz County Sheriff David Hathaway has thrown his weight behind Rep. Ruben Gallego’s bid for Senate, claiming that the Congressman has been a strong supporter of law enforcement and border security. Hathaway praised Gallego’s efforts to secure funding for Arizona’s border law enforcement agencies, touting him as a refreshing departure from the political opportunism that has plagued the issue. It’s a bit surprising that a sheriff from a county so blue it could make a smurf blush is backing a Democrat, but Hathaway seems convinced that Gallego is the real deal.
Hathaway’s nod to Gallego comes at a time when the border crisis is at the forefront of Arizona’s political landscape. The state has been grappling with a surge in illegal immigration and has become a battleground for issues related to the border. With Hathaway’s endorsement, it’s clear that he believes Gallego is the right man to address the challenges facing Arizona’s border communities and law enforcement agencies. It’s a bold move that is sure to ruffle some feathers in the Republican camp.
Arizona border sheriff endorses @RubenGallego https://t.co/g24G11UM63
— Raphael CF (@RaphaelC_F) March 13, 2024
Notably, Santa Cruz County, where Hathaway serves as sheriff, is no stranger to Democratic dominance. The county has been a reliable Democratic stronghold and has consistently thrown its support behind Democratic candidates in both local and national elections. With that kind of track record, it’s no wonder that Hathaway is singing the praises of a Democrat like Gallego.
But the timing of Hathaway’s endorsement is raising eyebrows, as it comes on the heels of Gallego’s campaign launching its first TV ad in a bid to win over Arizona voters. With the race for the Senate seat heating up, it’s clear that both parties are pulling out all the stops to secure crucial endorsements and sway undecided voters. It’s a high-stakes game with control of the Senate hanging in the balance, and every endorsement counts.
The immigration issue is front and center in Arizona, and Gallego is positioning himself as a candidate who understands the importance of securing the border while maintaining a beneficial trade relationship with Mexico. It’s a delicate balancing act, but Gallego seems to have Sheriff Hathaway firmly in his corner. Whether this endorsement will be enough to tip the scales in Gallego’s favor remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: the battle for the Senate seat in Arizona is heating up, and Republicans are in for a fight.
