Trump Backs Republican Opponents in Arizona Swing State Congressional Primary
Former President Donald Trump has given his endorsement to Republican rivals in a closely watched open congressional race in Arizona, a surprising move ahead of Tuesday’s primary election.
In a Truth Social post, Trump supported candidates Abraham Hamadeh and Blake Masters, who were once political allies but are now rivals competing to represent the 8th Congressional District.
“THEY WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN!” Trump exclaimed.
Arizona, a state known for sparking national debates on issues like abortion and immigration, holds significant influence in determining control of Congress and the White House. The 8th District is considered crucial by Trump allies in their efforts to challenge the election results.
The winner of the primary election in Arizona’s 8th District, where the majority leans conservative, is likely to succeed Republican U.S. Rep. Debbie Lesko. Democratic candidate Greg Whitten is running unopposed in the primary.
The six GOP candidates share common views on issues such as illegal immigration, inflation, and the perceived misuse of federal government power against Trump. The field includes former U.S. Rep. Trent Franks, Arizona state House Speaker Ben Toma, state Rep. Anthony Kern, and newcomer Patrick Briody.
Franks, a former congressman who resigned in 2017 after allegations of offering money to staff to bear his child, has centered his campaign around his congressional experience.
Toma has been vocal on immigration and abortion issues, advocating for a ballot measure giving law enforcement power to arrest migrants crossing the Arizona-Mexico border illegally.
Kern is among those charged for involvement in attempting to overturn Trump’s loss in the 2020 election.
Briody is campaigning for term limits in Congress.
Hamadeh, who previously received Trump’s endorsement in December, now shares it with Masters following the latest endorsement. This is a rare occurrence, but not unprecedented for Trump.
Trump also endorsed three Republican candidates in Missouri’s gubernatorial contest recently. In the final days of Missouri’s 2022 Republican primary for the U.S. Senate, Trump backed candidates collectively referred to as “ERIC.”
Masters, who now has endorsements from both Trump and Trump’s vice presidential pick, U.S. Sen. JD Vance, is distinguishing himself in the race.
The late endorsement may not influence early voters, as the majority of Arizonans vote early.
Hamadeh and Masters campaigned together in 2022 but have since become opponents, engaging in name-calling tactics reminiscent of Trump’s style.
The race has seen contentious attacks focusing on personal backgrounds and beliefs, with both sides defending themselves and their campaigns.
Voters like Randall Letellier and Doug Talbot are considering how the endorsements factor into their decisions in the election.
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