Ruben Gallego is on the cusp of a monumental moment as he prepares to be sworn in as Arizona's first Latino U.S. senator on Jan. 3. This remarkable achievement is a testament to his unwavering determination and the power of the American dream.

Uncovering the Inspiring Story of a Senator's Rise

Childhood Struggles

Growing up in Chicago, Gallego's middle-class life took a harrowing turn when his father, a successful contractor, abandoned the family to pursue a life of drug dealing. "Even before he left, he was a despicable man," recounts the 44-year-old senator-elect. "He was emotionally and physically abusive to me and my mother." This upheaval led to his mother, a secretary, moving the family into a small apartment where Gallego slept on the floor due to financial constraints. "It was a difficult time," he admits. "But it taught me the value of hard work and determination."During this challenging period, Gallego set his sights on improving his circumstances. He juggled outstanding grades with various jobs to support his family, working at a pizza parlor, a meat plant, flipping burgers, and even as a bouncer. At night, exhausted but driven, he would sometimes cry, praying that his efforts would pay off.

College Challenges and Military Service

At Harvard University, Gallego faced difficulties adapting to college life among his wealthier classmates. He worked cleaning toilets in the dorms of his classmates, a job that was both physically and mentally taxing. Academically, he struggled, and at one point, officials suggested he take a leave. However, he joined the United States Marine Corps Reserve and later returned to Harvard, graduating in 2004.After graduation, his unit was deployed to Iraq, where his Lima Company faced a tragic loss. The most casualties for a Marine unit since the Beirut bombing in 1983 were suffered by his comrades. Gallego himself suffered from PTSD, as did many of his friends. The lack of support from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs would later fuel his decision to run for public office.

Political Career and Voter Connection

In 2014, Gallego was elected to federal office as a Democratic congressman. He spent the past two years competing for Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema's seat and ultimately emerged victorious in November, defeating Republican nominee Kari Lake. A key to his success, he believes, is his openness in sharing his personal struggles. "A lot of Latino voters, especially men, related to my story," he says. "They saw that I understood their financial struggles. I was able to connect with them on a personal level."Gallego goes the extra mile to accommodate his constituents' schedules. He has joined concrete workers at dawn to understand their lives and concerns. His efforts have paid off, and he is now focused on representing his constituents in the Senate.

Family and Future

Gallego splits his time between Arizona and Washington, D.C. In 2021, he remarried and is expecting a baby boy in June. His family has come a long way, with his mother about to retire from a nonprofit and his sisters achieving success in different fields. "We all worked hard and achieved our goals," he says. "The sacrifices we made have paid off, and I'm proud to be able to give back to my community."As he looks ahead to the next chapter in the Senate, Gallego remains committed to fighting for the rights and well-being of his constituents. His story is a reminder that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.