Flake wins Arizona GOP nomination for US Senate

PHOENIX – Arizona Rep. Jeff Flake has defeated wealthy businessman Wil Cardon in the unexpectedly feisty Republican primary battle to succeed retiring U.S. Sen. Jon Kyl.

The six-term congressman will face Democrat Richard Carmona, who was surgeon general under President George W. Bush, in the November general election.

Arizona hasn't elected a Democrat to the Senate since Dennis DeConcini won his third term in 1988, but Democrats are hoping the costly primary attacks will give Carmona a better shot at the seat.

The push by the moderate Carmona comes as the GOP is fighting to pick up four more seats to wrest control of the chamber in advance of votes on key policy issues such as the possible repeal of President Barack Obama's health care law and changes to the tax code.