A last-minute shake-up in a competitive congressional primary to replace outgoing Arizona Republican Rep. Debbie Lesko could have an impact on Tuesday’s results.
Trump endorsed both Blake Masters and Abe Hamadeh in a Truth Social post late Saturday night, even though the Republican originally only endorsed Hamadeh, the Arizona Republic reported.
“We have a very important Republican Primary Election on Tuesday for Arizona’s 8th Congressional District, with two spectacular America First Candidates,” the former president posted.
“Blake Masters is a very successful businessman, and an incredibly strong supporter of our Movement to Make America Great Again – He is smart and tough! Likewise, Abe Hamadeh, a Veteran, former prosecutor, and fearless fighter for Election Integrity, has been with me all the way!” he continued.
“In Congress, we need a true Warrior who will work tirelessly with us to Grow our Economy, Stop Inflation, Secure our Border, End Migrant Crime, Support our Great Military/Vets, and Protect our always under siege Second Amendment . . . THEY WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN!” Trump added.
Masters was the Senate nominee and Hamadeh was the Attorney General nominee in the 2022 Republican primary, but the two drifted apart over disagreements related to the election outcome.
Masters conceded his race to Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, whereas Hamadeh legally challenged the results, along with gubernatorial turned senatorial candidate Kari Lake. Masters lost by roughly 125,000 votes, but Hamadeh lost by 280 votes.
The endorsement appears to close a gap between Trump and his Vice Presidential pick, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, who backed Masters in the race for the safely Republican congressional district.
Arizona House Speaker Ben Toma, former Congressman Trent Franks, state Sen. Anthony Kern and Patrick Briody are also pursuing the seat.
