Republican Arizona Senate candidate Kelli Ward’s campaign paid former White House aide Sebastian GorkaSebastian Lukacs GorkaAppeals court blocks White House from suspending reporter Sunday shows preview: As states loosen social distancing restrictions, lawmakers address dwindling state budgets FBI director in ‘hot seat’ as GOP demands reforms MORE $5,240 to appear at an event, according to FEC filings.
The filings show Gorka was paid a “speaking fee” from Ward’s Senate campaign on March 29, 2018.
Gorka tweeted about an appearance with Ward that same say in Arizona.
Tonight in Phoenix @kelliwardaz opens by recognizing our Vietnam veterans.
Click Here: Bape Kid 1st Camo Ape Head rompersHonored to be here and support her in her fight to represent Arizona in the Senate to DRAIN the Swamp.
#VietnamVeteransDay pic.twitter.com/Q67EfH8BU6— Sebastian Gorka DrG (@SebGorka) March 30, 2018
The filing was first reported by The Washington Examiner.
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It’s considered relatively uncommon for campaigns to pay speaking fees for guests, especially for those who have endorsed them.
Ward’s campaign spokesman Zachery Henry told the publication the campaign did not mind paying Gorka the speaking fee.
“The campaign certainly didn’t mind paying Dr. Sebastian Gorka an appearance fee,” Henry said. “Dr. Ward earned Dr. Gorka’s endorsement months before he flew to Arizona to rally with her because of her strong support of President TrumpDonald John TrumpSenate advances public lands bill in late-night vote Warren, Democrats urge Trump to back down from veto threat over changing Confederate-named bases Esper orders ‘After Action Review’ of National Guard’s role in protests MORE and the America First agenda.”
Ward and former sheriff Joe Arpaio are looking to challenge Rep. Martha McSallyMartha Elizabeth McSallyGOP senators introduce resolution opposing calls to defund the police No evidence of unauthorized data transfers by top Chinese drone manufacturer: study Senate Democratic campaign arm launches online hub ahead of November MORE (R) for her seat in the state’s Republican primary.