In a surprising turn of events, Arizona GOP Chair Jeff DeWit has tendered his resignation following the release of a controversial audio recording. The leaked recording suggests that DeWit may have attempted to dissuade former gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake from running for Senate through potential incentives.
DeWit, who had held the position since January 2023, claimed in his resignation statement that he faced an ultimatum from Lake’s team: resign immediately or risk the release of a more damaging recording. He expressed uncertainty about the contents but decided not to take the risk, resigning in the hope that Lake would cease her attacks.
The recording, initially reported by the Daily Mail, allegedly features DeWit asking Lake to name her price for staying out of politics for two years. DeWit defended himself by stating that he was fulfilling his duty as party chair to assess and enhance the viability of GOP candidates. However, the authenticity of the recording has not been independently verified by POLITICO.
Kari Lake, a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump, is currently running for the GOP nomination for Senate in Arizona. Her 2022 gubernatorial bid was marked by a hard-charging conservative approach, embracing conspiracy theories, and challenging fellow Republicans. Lake called for DeWit’s resignation at Trump’s New Hampshire victory party, accusing him of corruption and compromising the integrity of the Republican Party.
It remains to be seen how these developments will impact the Arizona GOP and the upcoming 2024 elections. Lake is expected to face Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego in the Senate race, while incumbent Independent Senator Kyrsten Sinema has not yet announced her reelection plans.
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