Arizona GOP nominee for US Senate Blake Masters enjoying first run in politics

PHOENIX — Coming off a win in Tuesday’s Republican primary for the open U.S. Senate seat in Arizona, Blake Masters said he’s enjoying his introductory run in politics and is gearing up for the general election.

Masters, the Trump-endorsed candidate, emerged from a crowded field and will take on Democrat incumbent Mark Kelly in the Nov. 8 election.

“It’s been an honor to run and it’s an honor to be the nominee here and you know, politics is stressful,” Masters told KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Arizona’s Morning News. “Yeah, people have sharp elbows, but I thought it’d be fun and it is.

“I get to meet tens of thousands of voters over the course of the campaign. It’s truly a pleasure, so there’s some good moments too, I promise.”

The 35-year-old Masters has spent most of his career working for billionaire Peter Thiel, who is bankrolling his campaign.

Masters trailed Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich for months until the Trump endorsement in early June.

He has emphasized cultural grievances that animate the right, including critical race theory and allegations of big tech censorship.

Masters said he has respect for Kelly as a person and that his contention with the former astronaut is his voting record.

“I had a business career,” Masters said. “I said, ‘let’s hit pause on that. I’m going to go in, beat Mark Kelly and show some leadership.’

“I think that’s what serving in government should be all about.”

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