Arizona Police Association backs Gallego, dealing blow to Lake

The Arizona Police Association announced Monday it is throwing its weight behind Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) in the Arizona Senate race, despite endorsing Republican Kari Lake in her gubernatorial bid last cycle.  

“As a Marine combat veteran, we know Congressman Gallego understands the complexities of modern policing in American society today, while at the same time recognizing the public’s expectations,” Arizona Police Association President Justin Harris said in a statement on the social platform X.

“The APA does not take our endorsements lightly; we recognize the importance of having a U.S. senator that can bring people together to improve society for all,” he continued. “We believe Congressman Gallego will be that U.S. Senator.”  

The association noted Gallego’s support around legislation like the Invest to Protect Act and Enhancing COPS Hiring Program Grants for Local Law Enforcement Act.  

The group just days ago backed former President Trump in the presidential race against Vice President Harris.

The Arizona Police Association’s decision to do a split-party endorsement is especially notable given it endorsed Lake in 2022 when she was running for governor against Gov. Katie Hobbs (D).

Still, Lake has earned endorsements from other law enforcement groups, including the Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs and Arizona Law Enforcement Association.

An aggregate of Arizona surveys compiled by Decision Desk HQ shows Gallego leading Lake 48 percent to 42 percent.  

“I am proud to have the APA’s support and look forward to working with them in the Senate to ensure Arizona’s law enforcement officers have the resources necessary to combat fentanyl trafficking, train the next generation of officers, and, above all, keep Arizona families safe,” Gallego said in a statement shared through the group.