As Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, I-Ariz., decides on a re-election bid in 2024, the Senate Republican campaign arm has launched a new attack ad targeting her centrist status. This ad refers to her as a “liberal Democrat,” linking her to President Joe Biden, which reveals the GOP’s concern that Sinema, now an independent, may secure support from Arizona Republicans.
A narrator notes that Sinema supported Biden’s initiatives and even enabled the passage of the American Rescue Plan. The National Republican Senatorial Committee spokesperson has confirmed that the ad will run in Arizona and is part of the GOP’s strategy to weaken her standing among Arizona Republicans.
Last December, Sinema left the Democratic party. While Sinema appears to align with Biden 94% of the time, her achievements suggest she has successfully obstructed some of his major priorities. The new Senate ad highlights Sinema’s bipartisan relationship and references Democrat-aligned Sen. Joe Manchin, highlighting her voting record and strategy.
In response, Rep. Ruben Gallego’s campaign sent a fundraising email accusing the NRSC of launching a “baseless, deeply personal attack ad.” Simultaneously, the Sinema camp had no comment on the ad. Amidst all this political heat, a recent NRSC poll shows Gallego leading in a three-way Arizona race.
NRSC Chair Steve Daines points out that Sinema’s chances are limited in Arizona as an independent, but the Democrats are confident about their chances in the state. The upcoming Senate contest is sure to keep everyone on edge.
The original article was published on NBCNews.com