Luna: I'm a proud independent voter supporting Ruben Gallego

As a Latino and a political independent, I’m proud to endorse Ruben Gallego to be Arizona’s next U.S. senator.

I spent the last decade serving Arizonans as a councilmember and as vice mayor on the Mesa City Council. In that role, I saw firsthand what makes a successful public servant.

Temperament matters, and Kari Lake does not have the temperament to serve Arizonans. She has demonstrated no interest in working across the aisle or addressing our state’s crises. Instead, she’s only self-interested and power-hungry. She continues to deny the will of Arizonans in the 2022 gubernatorial election, and she refuses to commit to accepting the results of her next election.

Regardless of party affiliation, that’s not the kind of leader Arizonans need. We deserve better.

It’s clear: Ruben Gallego is the best person for the job.

In my years of public service, I’ve looked beyond the political circus to deliver results for Arizonans. I’ve seen Ruben bring manufacturing jobs to Maricopa County, lower prescription drug costs for seniors and help rebuild critical infrastructure.

As the first Latino to serve on Mesa City Council, I’m proud I was able to provide our state’s large and growing Hispanic community a seat at the table. As the state’s first Latino senator, Ruben will do the same.

This November, I hope you will join me in choosing a senator who’ll put Arizona first and represent Arizonans with grace, humility and patriotism. Join me in supporting Ruben Gallego.

Editor’s note: David Luna served on the Mesa City Council from 2013 to 2023. He worked for Mesa Public Schools or more than 30 years before retiring in 2017. Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org .