Skin In The Game: Military And Legal Service Are Decisive Qualifications For Congressional Candidate

In recent political discourse, Blake Masters, a Republican candidate for Arizona’s 8th Congressional District, emphasized his familial responsibilities as his “skin in the game,” asserting that this motivates his candidacy to safeguard their future. While it’s commendable that Masters values his family, this alone should not be seen as the sole qualifying trait for congressional leadership.

My focus, however, is drawn to Masters’ primary opponent, Abe. I have had the distinct honor of serving as Abe’s Commanding Officer and Senior Rater. A Captain in the U.S. Army Reserve and a Military Intelligence Officer with a Top Secret Clearance, Abe has exemplified dedication to both military and civil service. From 2020 to 2021, under my command, he played a pivotal role in a program aiding Saudi Arabian efforts to shield their critical infrastructure from terrorist threats—a program funded by Saudi Arabia and critical to maintaining the longstanding relationship between our nations.

Abe’s responsibilities included planning training for numerous Saudi officers, leveraging the expertise fostered by our initiative. His path to this position was marked by exceptional commitment: completing ROTC at the University of Arizona alongside Law School, followed by training at Arizona’s Fort Huachuca Military Intelligence School, and passing the Arizona Bar Exam to become a prosecutor in Maricopa County. This commitment deepened when he took a leave from his prosecutorial duties to serve on Active Duty in Saudi Arabia, during which the area faced frequent attacks by Iranian-backed insurgents.

In his early 30s, Abe has demonstrated a profound dedication to public service, which, to me, represents true “skin in the game.” Masters’ focus on family, while important, pales in comparison to the sacrifices and commitments made by veterans like Abe who have served our country and its citizens in multiple capacities.

Today, with our college campuses often disrupted by radical protests, it is essential not to undervalue the commitment of those like Abe, who have upheld our laws and protected our citizenry. Historically, military service has been a revered benchmark for public office, a testament to one’s readiness to lead and serve the nation.

Abe’s campaign radiates a deep connection and commitment to veterans—a kinship forged through his own service and sacrifices, symbolized by his right to wear the insignia of his overseas service. His qualifications for Congress are rooted in a rich tradition of military service, exemplified by leaders such as Senator John McCain.

Abe’s dedication to service extends beyond his military and prosecutorial roles. His consistent presence on the campaign trail, engaging with and advocating for veterans’ issues, underscores a genuine brotherhood formed through shared service and sacrifices. This brotherhood resonates not just with fellow veterans, but also with the wider community, enhancing his appeal as a candidate who truly understands the value of service and protection of national interests.

For these compelling reasons, I wholeheartedly endorse Abe for Congress, a candidate whose service and sacrifice should be recognized and honored, rather than overshadowed by less substantial claims of commitment. His leadership qualities, honed in service and law enforcement, are exactly what we need in these challenging times to bring about meaningful changes and uphold the principles that safeguard our freedoms.