Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., has sparked controversy among Arizona progressives after he urged the Department of Justice against imposing federal oversight on the Phoenix Police Department, following his recent endorsement from the Arizona Police Association.
In a letter to the DOJ, which was sent one day after the endorsement, Gallego claimed the federal investigation’s findings—documenting a “pattern or practice” of excessive force and civil rights violations—were not indicative of systemic issues within the department.
He characterized the 120 stated incidents over eight years as isolated and insufficient to warrant federal oversight, a stance echoed by some local officials who have opposed increased federal involvement.
According to Gallego, local officials have already initiated reforms within the department, and he believes oversight should remain a local responsibility.
Endorsement Fuels Debate
The endorsement from the Arizona Police Association (APA) marked a significant win for Gallego’s Senate campaign. The APA, representing a wide array of law enforcement agencies in Arizona, often shapes the political landscape for candidates in law enforcement matters.
Previously, APA President Justin Harris had publicly endorsed Donald Trump, who referred to Gallego derogatorily during a rally. Despite such remarks, the APA expressed confidence in Gallego’s understanding of modern policing challenges.
Harris stated, “The APA does not take our endorsements lightly,” highlighting their belief that Gallego is the candidate capable of fostering unity to improve societal safety.
These developments come as Gallego prepares to defend his record against the Trump-endorsed Republican Senate nominee, Kari Lake, who has criticized him for allegedly supporting defunding the police. In contrast, the APA has praised Gallego for advocating increased funding for law enforcement.
Community Reactions
However, Gallego’s position has drawn sharp criticism from civil rights advocates. Jared Keenan, legal director of the ACLU of Arizona, expressed disbelief at Gallego’s downplaying of the DOJ’s findings, emphasizing that such statements undermine community safety and police accountability.
Community organizations like Poder In Action condemned Gallego’s claims as an affront to the communities most affected by police violence, asserting that reform cannot occur without external oversight or accountability.
While Gallego’s team has denied any connection between the newspaper letter and the APA endorsement, community leaders are calling for sustained pressure for transparency and accountability within law enforcement, regardless of political affiliations.
The ongoing discourse highlights the tension between law enforcement endorsements and the push for civil rights within the community, positioning Gallego at the center of a pivotal conversation in Arizona politics.
