This story was originally published by the WND News Center.
Politics in Arizona have been in turmoil for a number of years already and the fight isn't always between the right, as represented by Republicans, and the left, by Democrats.
One of the latest disputes has erupted with Republicans on both sides.
And it has resulted in state GOP chairman Jeff DeWit announcing his resignation.
A report from a Fox affiliate in Phoenix reveals that the newest brush with conflict came about because several media outlets wrote about "an audio recording" that surfaced in which DeWit allegedly offered Kari Lake money in order to keep her out of the 2024 election cycle.
Those reports admitted they were unable to verify the authenticity of the recordings themselves, and DeWit claims the recordings were altered.
In a letter announcing his decision to leave, DeWit claimed Lake "released a selectively edited audio record of our private conversation" and that actually was "deceptive."
He wrote, "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. Contrary to the notion of me being an enemy of Lake’s, this conversation was recorded while I was actually employing Lake in my private company. In fact, for over a year and a half, we had many conversations where I was looking out for her financial interests. The ethical breach in her recording of our conversation, while Lake was my employee, raises serious legal and moral concerns."
He closed his letter with his announcement that "I am doing as Ms. Lake wishes and am stepping down as chairman of the Arizona Republican Party."
Lake, who was a strong Republican candidate for governor last election, and has alleged problems in the state's election system cost her the race, now is seeking the U.S. Senate seat held by Democrat Krysten Sinema, who was elected as a Democrat but later said she is an independent.
DeWit took credit for "significant improvements" in the state party during his tenure, including "legal victories for election integrity."
He said, "Contrary to accusations of bribery, my discussions were transparent and intended to offer perspective, not coercion. Our relationship was based on friendship, and the conversation that is now being scrutinized was an open, unguarded exchange between friends in the living room of her house. I genuinely believed I was offering a helpful perspective to someone I considered a friend."
He said he took the "unpaid role" to "contribute positively, with the primary focus being the betterment of Arizona and our nation."
He also revealed the decision was under duress.
"This morning, I was determined to fight for my position. However, a few hours ago, I received an ultimatum from Lake's team: resign today or face the release of a new, more damaging recording. 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, in the hope that she will honor her commitment to cease her attacks, allowing me to return to the business sector—a field I find much more logical and prefer over politics."
He said he remains a supporter of President Trump because he wants to see "low inflation, a secure border, and economic growth" brought back to the country, Fox News reported Lake was firing back.
"The tape speaks for itself: The Arizona GOP Chairman Jeff DeWit attempted to bribe Kari Lake. Thankfully, Kari is an extremely ethical person who rejected DeWit’s multiple attempts to offer her money and corporate board seats in exchange for Kari not running for public office," said a statement from campaign senior advisers Caroline Wren and Garrett Ventry.
They continued, "She will be an incredible Senator for Arizonans. No one from the Kari Lake campaign threatened or blackmailed DeWit. It is unfortunate that Dewit hasn’t recognized how unethical his behavior was and still hasn’t apologized to Arizona Republicans. DeWit’s false claims are just par for the course. The Arizona GOP must be relieved to have his resignation. Now we can focus on getting ethical leadership and win big in 2024."
