There’s been a major development in the political landscape.
Independent Senator Kyrsten Sinema (formerly Democrat) has announced that she will not seek re-election, marking the end of her singular term that significantly impacted Arizona’s political dynamics. Sinema, originally a member of the Democratic Party, has been a pivotal figure in a Senate that has been tightly divided over the past years. Her departure sets the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested battle for her seat.
Sinema made her announcement through a video posted on her X account, stating, “I will leave the Senate at the end of this year.” This decision comes amidst speculation about her re-election prospects, which, according to sparse but consistent polling data, appeared challenging. In hypothetical three-way races featuring Sinema, leading Republican contender Kari Lake, and prominent Democrat Rep. Ruben Gallego, Sinema was often placed third, casting doubt on her ability to retain her seat.
She added, “Because I choose civility, understanding, listening, and working together to get stuff done, I will leave the Senate at the end of this year.”
A message for Arizonans from Senator Kyrsten Sinema pic.twitter.com/1XWFSWgGdh
— Kyrsten Sinema (@SenatorSinema) March 5, 2024
Interestingly, Sinema had outlined a potential path to victory that involved garnering support across the political spectrum, aiming to attract a significant portion of independents and even a notable share of Republicans alongside a smaller fraction of Democrats. This strategy showed Sinema’s unique position in Arizona’s political scene, where she transitioned from a Green Party organizer to a key moderate figure in the Senate, often siding with Republicans on pivotal issues.
Sinema’s move to become an independent in 2022 was a landmark moment, reflecting deepening rifts with the Democratic Party, particularly over issues like the Senate filibuster and voter ID laws.
“In a natural extension of my service since I was first elected to Congress, I have joined the growing numbers of Arizonans who reject party politics by declaring my independence from the broken partisan system in Washington and formally registering as an Arizona Independent,” Sinema said after leaving the Democrat party.
“Over the past four years, I’ve worked proudly with other Senators in both parties and forged consensus on successful laws helping everyday Arizonans build better lives for themselves and their families,” the Arizona senator said. “Becoming an Independent won’t change my work in the Senate; my service to Arizona remains the same.”
Over the past four years, I’ve worked proudly with other Senators in both parties and forged consensus on successful laws helping everyday Arizonans build better lives for themselves and their families. 2/3
— Kyrsten Sinema (@kyrstensinema) December 9, 2022
