Rep. Ruben Gallego announces bid for Sinema’s Senate seat in Arizona

Rep. Ruben Gallego of Arizona announced Monday he is running for the Senate seat held by Kyrsten Sinema, a centrist who switched her party affiliation from Democrat to independent after the midterm elections.

Mr. Gallego, a Democrat, launched his campaign with an ad in English and Spanish that highlights his humble beginnings and tours of service as a Marine in Iraq.

“You’re the first group of people that are hearing this besides my family. I will be challenging Kyrsten Sinema for the United States Senate, and I need all of your support,” Mr. Gallego, 43, told a group of veterans in the ad.

Mr. Gallego’s decision to enter the race was not a surprise.

Democrats spoke openly about him being an alternative to Ms. Sinema, who was effectively chased from the party for refusing to abandon the filibuster and sticking to middle-of-the-road positions.