A congressional candidate is facing criticism after it was reported that he used  more than $5,000 in campaign money for teeth whitening, clothing and a church teen abstinence event.  

According to a report from The Arizona Republic, David Giles, who is running in the Republican primary to challenge Democratic Rep. Kyrsten Sinema, spent $2,865 on tactical gear like surveillance equipment and an M-11 handgun. Giles also spent $1,455 on clothes from Men’s Wearhouse, $297 on teeth whitening and $500 for his church’s teen purity event, Lock Walk.  

In addition, Giles paid former Arizona Corporation Commission member Gary Pierce $100,000 to advise his campaign.  

After being asked by a reporter about the expenses, Giles sent new reports to the Federal Election Commission omitting some of the expenses, the newspaper reported.  

Giles’ primary opponent, John Agra, was surprised when contacted by the newspaper.  

“Good gravy,” Agra said. “Are you serious?”  

Arizona’s congressional primary is Aug. 30. The race is rated Safe Democrat by The Rothenberg-Gonzales Political Report /Roll Call.

Contact Garcia at 


EricGarcia@cqrollcall.com


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@EricMGarcia

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