Senator Ruben Gallego, a Democrat from Arizona, defended his use of campaign funds for travel and fundraising events following reports of luxury expenditures. Gallego stated that trips to events such as the Super Bowl were legitimate fundraising efforts. He explained to Fox News Digital, "You have to go where the money is to raise money." Recent financial filings indicated that Gallego's leadership PAC covered expenses for various trips, including Miami and Disneyland, and included costs for childcare during these travels.
Gallego also utilized a joint fundraising committee with former Representative Eric Swalwell, which funded tickets for the Super Bowl. He characterized the Super Bowl event as a fundraiser, stating that it raised money for his 2023 election campaign. The event, held at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, shortly after Gallego announced his Senate bid, had ticket prices starting at $5,000.
The total cost of the Super Bowl event was over $37,000, with both Gallego and Swalwell receiving approximately $8,000 each. A spokesperson for Gallego noted that the tickets were purchased at fair market value and that hosting donors at sporting events is a common practice. Additionally, Gallego mentioned that a trip to Miami coincided with his wife's birthday, resulting in over $9,000 in expenses, but claimed that they raised about $50,000 during their nine events in the area.
While federal campaign funds cannot be used for personal expenses, the Federal Election Commission allows for campaign-related travel and childcare costs. No findings have indicated that Gallego's expenses violated campaign finance laws.