Kyrsten Sinema, the independent senator from Arizona, announced on Tuesday that she will not seek re-election in 2024, ending her six-year term in the upper chamber. Sinema, who left the Democratic Party in 2022, said that she was frustrated by the partisan gridlock and the lack of compromise in Washington.
In a video posted on her X account, Sinema, 47, said that she believed in her approach of working across the aisle and finding common ground, but that it was not what America wanted right now. She said that she was disappointed by the political climate, which she described as “toxic” and “divisive”.
“I believe in my approach, but it’s not what America wants right now. I love Arizona, and I am so proud of what we’ve delivered. Because I choose civility, understanding, listening, working together to get stuff done, I will leave the Senate at the end of this year.”
Kyrsten Sinema’s decision came as a surprise to many, as she was not just one of the most controversial figures in the Senate, but also heavily influential.
She was a key player in several legislative negotiations, such as the bipartisan infrastructure bill and the voting rights bill. She was also one of the staunchest opponents of abolishing the filibuster, a procedural rule that requires 60 votes to advance most bills in the Senate. Sinema had argued that the filibuster was essential for protecting the rights of the minority and fostering cooperation.
Her departure will leave a vacant seat in Arizona, a swing state that has become increasingly competitive in recent years.
Kyrsten Sinema was the first Democrat to win a Senate seat in Arizona since 1988, when she defeated Republican Martha McSally in 2018. Her retirement will also open the door for a fierce and expensive battle for her seat, which could determine the balance of power in the Senate.
The leading Republican candidate is Kari Lake, a former TV anchor and a staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump. She capitalised on the Arizona senator’s departure from the race on social media while also taking a shot at her opposition.
Senator Sinema had the courage to stand tall against the Far-Left in defense of the filibuster—despite the overwhelming pressure from the radicals in her party like Ruben Gallego who called on her to burn it all down. Arizonans will not be fooled by Gallego. I will be a voice for ALL Arizonans,”
The leading Democratic candidate is Ruben Gallego, a congressman and a progressive activist, had the same idea as his Republican opponent. In a statement he said,
“Democrats, independents, and Republicans alike are coming together and rejecting Kari Lake and her dangerous positions. I welcome all Arizonans, including Senator Sinema, to join me in that mission.”
Both candidates have been campaigning aggressively and raising millions of dollars for their bids.
