Sen. Kyrsten Sinema announced she won't run for reelection next year. Her decision was shared on Super Tuesday, leaving the Arizona race to Republican Kari Lake and Democrat Ruben Gallego.
Sinema, who became an independent in 2022, criticized political extremism. In a video, she expressed concern over democracy's decline due to government dysfunction and polarization.
"Our democracy was weakened by government dysfunction and the constant pull to the extremes by both political parties," Sinema stated. She vowed to fix this but acknowledged her approach might not align with current American desires.
She criticized the current political climate for valuing symbolic victories over genuine compromise. Sinema believes in a different approach, but feels America currently prefers division.
NRSC Chair Steve Daines sees Sinema's exit as an opportunity for Republicans. He believes it enhances Republican chances to secure a Senate majority.
Daines highlighted that Sinema's departure could benefit Kari Lake. Early polls had shown Sinema attracting more Republican than Democrat voters.
The NRSC had previously targeted Sinema in ads. They accused her of aligning too closely with President Biden's agenda.
Internal NRSC polling had indicated Sinema's appeal among Republican voters. This strategic insight came after they launched a 30-second ad criticizing her voting record.
