Campana: I am a lifelong Republican and am voting for Ruben Gallego

I am a lifelong Republican who served the City of Scottsdale for 12 years — first on  the City Council and later as the city's first female mayor. Scottsdale is a conservative community, but I represented all our citizens in a non-partisan fashion.

I spent 50 years as a registered Republican, reflecting my values of limited government, low taxes, healthy communities and abundant opportunity. I've dedicated decades to helping Republican colleagues get elected.

But now, I want to be clear: I am a conservative — and I am voting for Ruben Gallego. I cannot support Kari Lake and her anti-choice, anti-woman, anti-freedom plans for Arizona.

When Arizona enforced a century-old abortion ban, even in cases of incest and rape, we became one of the most restrictive states in America for reproductive freedom. This is about freedom — the freedom for women to make their own deeply personal healthcare decisions and for doctors to care for their patients without politicians like Kari Lake telling us what to do. And as the proud grandmother of two twin boys — the result of IVF — it’s unthinkable Kari Lake would support laws that could make IVF inaccessible.  

And Kari Lake called this abortion ban “a great law.” She even called on local sheriffs to enforce it. That is not what Arizonans want.

Ruben and I may disagree on some issues, but I know this: Ruben trusts women to make their own healthcare decisions! And it’s not just me. A week ago, over 40 of my fellow Republicans and Independents crossed party lines to support Ruben. Our freedoms must come before political parties.

Arizona needs a rational voice in the Senate. We need someone with a level head who respects our rights and our freedoms. Ruben Gallego will be that Senator. Alongside my fellow Republicans, I am proud to support Ruben Gallego.

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.