Sen. Ruben Gallego Faces Scrutiny Over Endorsements Amid Allegations
Sen. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., who has expressed interest in a 2028 presidential run, currently faces criticism after withdrawing endorsements for Democratic candidates accused of misconduct. Recently, Gallego rescinded his support for Maine Senate nominee Graham Platner due to a rape allegation. This follows his previous withdrawal of support from Eric Swalwell’s gubernatorial campaign in California, which was troubled by sexual assault and misconduct allegations.
Platner and Swalwell have denied accusations against them. Gallego announced his decision to withdraw support for Platner in a social media post, calling the allegations against Platner ‘troubling and deeply serious.’
Platner’s former girlfriend, Lyndsey Fifield, who accused him of abusive behavior, criticized Gallego for not acting sooner. She questioned why her previous warnings were not considered significant enough and referred to past allegations detailed in a New York Times report.
Despite the allegations, Platner received significant backing from prominent Democrats. Jon Lovett, co-host of ‘Pod Save America,’ acknowledged the allegations of Platner being intimidating and physically aggressive. However, he urged Democrats to consider the importance of a Democratic majority in the Senate. Fellow co-host Jon Favreau previously praised Platner as a viable contender to defeat incumbent Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine.
A spokesperson for Gallego stated that the senator took the right step by breaking ties when he realized the values he stood for were compromised. However, Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., criticized supporters like Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., saying they should apologize for backing Platner.
Fetterman described disturbing allegations against Platner, saying they effectively broke into his girlfriend’s home and assaulted her, posing a threat. He emphasized the need for Democrats to reassess their endorsements.
After a rape allegation from Jenny Racicot, a Maine Democrat, Politico reported she accused Platner of entering her home uninvited and assaulting her despite her objections. Platner denied the claims.
Gallego, along with other Democrats, withdrew support following the Politico report, calling for Platner to leave the race. Maine election laws present challenges in finding a replacement.
Gallego’s judgment has been questioned by his critics. Republican Arizona state Sen. Warren Peterson noted a pattern in Gallego’s endorsements deteriorating due to scandals.
Conservative commentator Ryan Girdusky criticized Gallego’s personal history, referring to his 2016 divorce from Kate Gallego, who was pregnant at the time.
In addition to endorsements, Gallego faces scrutiny regarding campaign spending on family travel and personal expenses. Reports indicated he used campaign funds for trips and events, which the senator defended as legitimate fundraising activities.