The Arizona GOP chair resigns following leaked audio capturing a bribe to Kari Lake: ‘Deceptive’ | WWMT
The Arizona Republican Party Chair, Jeff DeWit, resigned amidst controversy after a leaked audio recording revealed him apparently attempting to dissuade Senate candidate Kari Lake from running. The 10-minute recording, published by the Daily Mail, captures DeWit suggesting deals, including financial compensation or a company payroll position, in exchange for Lake refraining from the U.S. Senate race. DeWit expressed concerns about Lake’s fundraising capabilities and questioned the electoral viability of former President Donald Trump, whom Lake aligns with.
While DeWit denied bribery, he acknowledged the conversation but insisted it was selectively edited, framing it as a friendly discussion and advising Lake to postpone her Senate campaign and consider running for governor in 2026. DeWit emphasized the need for trust in private conversations and speculated about potential secret recordings by Lake.
Lake, denying being the leak source, called for DeWit’s resignation, threatening the release of more damaging recordings. As the Arizona GOP faces leadership changes, this scandal coincides with a crucial time, including a Trump-led fundraising rally. Lake, backed by Trump, is a leading Republican Senate candidate, while the party must now select DeWit’s successor amid financial challenges.
In summary, the Arizona GOP is embroiled in a leadership crisis due to a leaked conversation involving alleged attempts to influence the Senate race, raising questions about trust and integrity within the party.
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