In a significant move, leaders in the crypto industry and some GOP donors have heavily invested in the Arizona Democratic primary. A super PAC named Protect Progress, funded by these crypto leaders, has poured over a million dollars into independent advertisements supporting Phoenix Councilwoman Yassamin Ansari. Additionally, Ansari’s campaign has received nearly $200,000 from GOP donors. This financial backing has made the primary race for the seat of Rep. Ruben Gallego, who is running for Senate, quite competitive.
The race involves former state Senator Raquel Terán, Phoenix Councilwoman Yassamin Ansari, and physician Duane Wooten. The substantial financial support for Ansari has sparked controversy and criticism from various quarters. Democratic strategist Chuck Rocha expressed frustration over wealthy individuals from outside the state attempting to influence the outcome, particularly pointing out how this undermines the Latino community’s political autonomy.
Raquel Terán, backed by Bold PAC—the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC)—has received endorsements from prominent figures like Reps. Raúl Grijalva and Pete Aguilar. Bold PAC Chair Rep. Linda Sánchez criticized the outside funding, emphasizing that Terán has been a steadfast advocate for Latino rights in Arizona and asserting that this external intervention disrupts the Latino community’s ability to choose their own representative.
This race highlights the growing influence of cryptocurrency wealth in political campaigns and the tensions it can create within local communities and established political groups. While Ansari benefits from the influx of funds, Terán’s supporters are rallying to maintain their influence and preserve the integrity of their representation.