Divisive and expensive contest is amplified by late primary date
Today, Arizona Republicans’ worst possible primary scenario just became a reality. With the entrance of scandal marred Sherriff Paul Babeu and big spending David Gowan, the Republican field is packed with uniquely flawed candidates.
“There are setbacks, and then there are disasters – Paul Babeu and David Gowan getting into this race creates a four-way primary that will be a disaster for Arizona Republicans,” said DCCC Spokesman Tyler Law. “The late primary date guarantees a very long, divisive, and expensive primary that will send the Republican nominee limping into the general election.”
BACKGROUND
It’s getting crowded out there, so here’s a quick recap of where the field stands:
Gary Kiehne
- Came very close to winning the Republican primary last cycle and has the money to self-fund.
- Knowingly doesn’t pay his taxes on time; compared Arizona police officers to the Nazi SS; said 99% of mass murderers are Democrats – these are just a few, but you get the idea…
Paul Babeu
- Leads multiple polls in AZ01 despite nationally covered scandal in 2012.
- Honorary chairman of “dark money” group pushing hardline immigration agenda.
Ken Bennett
- As Secretary of State, Bennett threatened to leave President Obama off the ballot because of birther conspiracies.
- Finished an embarrassing 4th in the Republican primary for Governor.
David Gowan
- 3rd AZ House Speaker to run in as many election cycles – the other two lost.
- Currently represents a district that primarily overlaps with AZ02.
- Gowan was humiliated this year for planning an absurdly expensive renovation of the House basement, complete with a gym and showers.