On Saturday, Republican Representative Eli Crane secured his reelection for a U.S. House seat in Arizona. Crane, who is serving his first term, triumphed over Jonathan Nez, the former president of the Navajo Nation, who aimed to become the first Native American to hold a congressional position in the state.

The 2nd Congressional District, which leans Republican, encompasses a significant portion of Arizona, including regions such as Prescott and Flagstaff, as well as the eastern areas of the state and the suburbs located north of Tucson. Notably, this district also contains more than fifty percent of Arizona’s 22 Native American tribes.

Eli Crane, a seasoned Navy SEAL, is affiliated with the far-right House Freedom Caucus and is recognized as a steadfast supporter of Donald Trump. The news outlet confirmed Crane’s victory shortly after 8:53 p.m. EST.

Crane’s administration is likely to be scrutinized in the coming months, particularly given his alignment with Trump and the political dynamics within the Freedom Caucus. As Arizona continues to evolve as a battleground state, the implications of this election could have far-reaching effects on future political movements.

Both candidates held strong positions in the race, but ultimately, Crane’s appeal in a Republican-dominant district prevailed, solidifying his place in the House. With his background in military service and conservative values, Crane will continue to navigate the complexities of governance in a diverse and changing state.