Sen. Ruben Gallego Faces Criticism Over Endorsements

Senator Ruben Gallego from Arizona is under scrutiny for withdrawing support from two Democratic candidates facing allegations of misconduct involving women. He is also considering a potential run for the presidency in 2028.

This week, Gallego withdrew his endorsement of Graham Platner, a Senate nominee from Maine, following a serious accusation of rape. This decision comes months after Gallego pulled his support from Eric Swalwell during Swalwell’s troubled California gubernatorial campaign amid separate allegations.

Both Platner and Swalwell deny the allegations. In a post on X, Gallego described the accusations against Platner as troubling. Lyndsey Fifield, Platner’s former girlfriend, had previously accused him of abusive behavior. She criticized Gallego for not acting sooner despite prior warnings.

The New York Times published a report that detailed allegations from Fifield about her past relationship with Platner. She claimed he was physically aggressive and left her fearful. Although he never hit her, she described incidents of grabbing and intimidation. Platner denied these allegations but continued to receive endorsements from prominent Democrats.

Some Democrats previously defended Platner, viewing him as a candidate capable of winning against Republican incumbent Susan Collins. However, recent allegations, including one from Jenny Racicot, who accused Platner of sexual assault, have led other Democrats to rescind their support.

Critics are questioning Gallego’s judgment in supporting these candidates. Republican Arizona State Senator Warren Peterson expressed concern over Gallego’s decisions, highlighting a pattern of endorsement mistakes. Jonathan Turley, a law professor, and media contributor, noted Gallego’s apparent disregard of allegations against his friends.

Gallego also faces personal scrutiny. He went through a divorce in 2016 while his wife was pregnant. Records indicate he filed for divorce before his wife, Kate Gallego, gave birth. Additionally, there are questions regarding his use of campaign finances for family travel and personal activities.

Politico reported that Gallego used campaign funds for trips to Miami, Saint Barthélemy, Disneyland, and the Super Bowl. The senator claims these expenses were legitimate for fundraising purposes.

Fox News Digital reporters contributed to this coverage. Alec Schemmel, a Politics Reporter with Fox News, provided insights from his experience in Washington, D.C.