In a surprising turn of events, Jeff DeWit, the chairman of the Arizona Republican Party, tendered his resignation on Wednesday following allegations of attempted bribery involving Senate candidate Kari Lake.
The controversy erupted after an audio recording surfaced, purportedly featuring DeWit offering a bribe to Lake to withdraw from the 2024 Senate race.
In his resignation letter, DeWit defended his actions, asserting that the audio was misconstrued and taken out of context. He further claimed that Lake had threatened to release another potentially damaging recording unless he stepped down from his position.
"This morning, I was determined to fight for my position. However, a few hours ago, I received an ultimatum from Lakes team: resign today or face the release of a new, more damaging recording," DeWit stated in his resignation letter. "I am truly unsure of its contents, but considering our numerous past open conversations as friends, I have decided not to take the risk. I am resigning as Lake requested."
The contentious recording allegedly features DeWit informing Lake that "very powerful people" desired to keep her out of power, and inquiring if there was a "number" that might persuade her to step aside. Lake reportedly retorted that not even a "billion dollars" could buy her off.
DeWit addressed the issue in his resignation letter, stating, "In light of the recent revelation that Kari Lake has released a selectively edited audio recording of our private conversation, I must clearly address this deceptive tactic. The recording, from over ten months ago, is not only taken out of context but also undermines the integrity of private discussions critical for party leadership."
He clarified that contrary to the impression of being Lake's adversary, he was actually her employer at his private company during the time of the recording. "In fact, for over a year and a half we had many conversations where I was looking out for her financial interests," DeWit added.
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