From ABC15 staff
DeWitt accuses Kari Lake of orchestrating tape to take control of state party
PHOENIX — The leader of the Arizona Republican Party is resigning after the release of an audio tape of U.S. Senate candidate Kari Lake, who will reportedly focus on running for governor. He allegedly offered Lake money to avoid participating in this year's U.S. Senate race.
Chairman Jeff DeWitt issued a statement Wednesday categorically denying Lake's accusations, but also announcing his resignation.
He accused Lake's team of threatening to share other “more damaging” recordings if he did not resign.
Mr. DeWitt said that the recordings of the conversations made public were made while Mr. Lake was employed by his private company, and that “Mr. Lake recorded our conversations while he was my employee.'' “Her ethical violations raise serious legal and moral concerns,” it added.
He believes his decision to resign at this time will clear up the “chaos” it has caused, adding that his actions “will always reflect what's best for Arizona Republicans.” Dew,” he added.
Lake told KTAR radio Wednesday that he asked DeWitt to resign because the conversation was “disrespectful and unethical.” Lake also told KTAR that her relationship with DeWitt has been strained since this conversation occurred.
Photo by Gage Skidmore
