Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake is expected to become the Republican Party’s Senate nominee, with her celebrity status and extensive out-of-state travels earning her significant income through paid speaking engagements and book sales. In January, Lake received $20,000 to appear at a St. Joseph County Republican Party event in South Bend, Indiana, according to a financial disclosure. She previously earned $75,000 from paid speeches before announcing her Senate campaign. However, this conflicts with earlier statements from her campaign that she did not charge speaking fees.
Lake also made an additional $27,738.77 from sales of her book “Unafraid” within five months. Her disclosure revealed details of her agreement with right-wing publisher Winning Team Publishing, which included a $100,000 advance and 25% of net profits beyond that. While many politicians monetize their public profiles through book sales, Lake has faced criticism for spending extensive time out of state while aiming to secure a Senate seat.
Despite not having won an election yet, Lake’s celebrity status has allowed her to profit from various endeavors while aiming to secure a Senate seat. Once she secures the GOP nomination, she is expected to face Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego in a pivotal election that will determine Senate control in Arizona.