In a recent development, Michigan Republicans have voted to remove state GOP Chair Kristina Karamo from her position during a meeting on Saturday. The decision follows a tumultuous year of leadership marked by financial challenges and internal conflicts within the party.
A substantial majority of party members present at the meeting voted to oust Karamo, who did not attend and has signaled that she will not recognize the vote, alleging that the meeting was unofficial and illegally organized. This move may lead to a potential legal battle over control of the top position within the Michigan GOP.
The internal discord comes at a critical time for Michigan Republicans as they aim to rebound from historic losses in the 2022 midterms. The party is looking to flip a U.S. Senate seat and play a crucial role in the 2024 presidential election, where Michigan is poised to be a battleground state.
Kristina Karamo, who rose through the ranks by promoting election conspiracies after the 2020 presidential election, had previously received backing from former President Donald Trump in her run for secretary of state in 2022. Despite losing by a significant margin, Karamo refused to concede.
Supporters of Karamo gathered outside the meeting venue, expressing solidarity with her stance on election integrity and other issues. Some party members disputed the legitimacy of the meeting, claiming it was not officially called and any actions taken would not be recognized.
The removal process began formally in early December when opponents obtained signatures from 39 state committee members calling for a special meeting. To remove Karamo, they would need support from at least half of the nearly 100 committee members, with approval from 75 percent of those attending. A proposed amendment to lower the threshold to 60 percent passed, although it wasn’t required.
The Michigan GOP faces significant challenges, including financial instability with nearly $500,000 in debt as of October. Efforts to sell the party’s headquarters to settle debts are underway. The party’s struggles come just before a crucial convention on March 2, where delegates will be allocated for the 2024 election.
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