Republican U.S. Senate candidate Kari Lake held a Friday afternoon press conference to challenge Democratic Representative Ruben Gallego (D-AZ-03) to a debate on abortion.
Expressing concern over what she labeled as Gallego’s “radical position on the left,” Lake emphasized the need to address this critical issue.
“We owe it to the people of the state to defend our policies,” Lake said, underlining her commitment to “saving babies” and providing women with alternative options.
She called on Gallego to defend partial birth abortion, abortion up to the minute of birth, and sending taxpayer money overseas for abortion in foreign nations; and characterized Gallego’s stance as “radical,” stressing the immediate need to debate.
On her website, Lake asserts that as the sole mother in the race, she champions the life and advocates for supporting women in embracing motherhood. While recognizing diverse opinions on abortion, she said she opposes federal bans, saying it is a state prerogative.
In her remarks, Lake emphasized the importance of providing comprehensive support for young women navigating the challenges of motherhood, including prenatal care, parenting classes, and financial aid. She stressed the significance of empowering women with choices beyond abortion, as many later regret the decision, contrasting it with the enduring fulfillment of motherhood.
Lake went on to suggest that Mother’s Day Weekend would be the perfect moment for this crucial debate. She argued that if Gallego and his allies are willing to funnel a staggering $120 million towards abortion-related endeavors leading up to the elections, then he should be equally willing to defend his positions on the debate stage.
Kari reported in an X post that Gallego swiftly responded with an immediate “no” to her challenge.
🚨DEBATE: @KariLake Holds Press Conference & Challenges @RubenGallego To Abortion Debate
Within minutes, Ruben denied her request..
WATCH & SHARE! ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/HsLV5VpiqR— Kari Lake (@KariLake) May 3, 2024
The Lake campaign followed up to Gallego’s refusal to debate with a sharp rebuke.
“Ruben was given the opportunity to tell the people of Arizona where he stands on this issue, but unfortunately, he doesn’t have the testicular fortitude to take it,” the campaign said in a statement sent to media.
“We hope that the Gallego campaign will reconsider Kari’s offer.”
A short time after Lake’s press conference, Gallego took to X to say that he is “a dad, husband, Marine, and I will be your next US Senator in Arizona.”
I’m a dad, husband, Marine, and I will be your next US Senator in Arizona.
— Ruben Gallego (@RubenGallego) May 4, 2024
The challenge by Lake comes as the contest to name the Republican nominee for U.S. Senate is still underway through primary election day on July 30.
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Christy Kelly is a reporter at The Arizona Sun Times and The Star News Network. Follow Christy on Twitter / X. Email tips to [email protected]
