Arizona GOP Chair resigns following allegations of bribery audio involving Kari Lake, citing threats
OAN’s Abril Elfi
2:35 PM – Wednesday, January 24, 2024
An Arizona GOP chairman has resigned after an audio recording was released where he purportedly attempted to bribe Kari Lake to take a pause from politics.
On Wednesday, Jeff DeWit (R-Ariz.) released a statement on X (Twitter) announcing his resignation and blaming Lake, alleging that she had threatened him by saying she would “release more recordings” if he did not resign.
“This morning, I was determined to fight for my position. However, a few hours ago I received an ultimatum from Lake’s team: resign or face the release of a new, more damaging recording,” his letter said. “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.”
Lake posted on X (Twitter) that she would be answering any questions regarding the “bribery scandal” on the online video platform Rumble at 8 p.m. ET on Wednesday.
Her advisers, Caroline Wren and Garrett Ventry, said in a statement that the “tape speaks for itself” and that “No one from the Kari Lake campaign threatened or blackmailed DeWit.”
In the conversation with Lake, DeWit can be heard saying that the unidentified people “want you to stay out for two years. … they want you to be on their team.”
“I’m not going to let these people in D.C. tell me not to run,” Lake says in the recording.
DeWit then asks, “Is there a number at which…”
“I could be bought?” Lake asks. “No…”
She told DeWit that, “this is about getting Trump out. It’s about getting DeSantis in,” and “I’m with Trump.”
“I actually just wish that you’d give me a counter-offer that was big. Give me a counter,” DeWit says.
“I can’t be bought,” she reiterated.
However, DeWit tried to claim in his written letter that Lake made a “selectively edited audio recording of our private conversation.”
“I genuinely believed I was offering a helpful perspective to someone I considered a friend,” he stated.
According to DeWit, Lake recently made it her “mission to destroy [him]” ever since they had a conversation in which he advised her to abandon her Senate campaign in order to concentrate on a subsequent bid for governor.
In October, Lake formally announced her Senate bid.
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What do advisors Caroline Wren and Garrett Ventry say about the nature of the conversation and the allegations of bribery
Title: Arizona GOP Chairman Resigns Amid Bribery Allegations
Introduction
In a shocking turn of events, the Arizona GOP Chairman, Jeff DeWit, has announced his resignation following the release of an audio recording where he allegedly attempted to bribe political figure Kari Lake. This scandal has prompted intense public scrutiny and has raised questions about the ethical conduct of political leaders. In this article, we will delve into the details surrounding the incident, the statements made by the involved parties, and the potential consequences this could have on Arizona politics.
The Allegations and Resignation
On Wednesday, Jeff DeWit released a statement on Twitter, announcing his resignation and placing the blame on Kari Lake. According to DeWit, Lake had allegedly threatened him with the release of more damaging recordings if he did not step down from his position. While he admitted to having open conversations with Lake in the past, their friendship seemingly served as a catalyst for his decision to resign.
Lake’s Response
In response to DeWit’s resignation, Kari Lake posted on Twitter, stating that she would address any questions regarding the “bribery scandal” on the online video platform Rumble. This suggests that Lake plans to provide her side of the story and shed light on the events that led to DeWit’s resignation. It remains to be seen how Lake’s response will contribute to the ongoing investigation and public perception of the situation.
Advisers’ Statements
Caroline Wren and Garrett Ventry, advisers to Kari Lake, released a statement on Twitter, asserting that Lake’s team did not threaten or blackmail DeWit. According to them, the audio recordings speak for themselves, leaving no room for doubt regarding the nature of the conversation. However, it is crucial to remain impartial until all the facts have been presented.
The Controversial Conversation
The audio recording reveals DeWit suggesting that there are unidentified individuals who want Lake to take a two-year hiatus from politics and join their team. Lake expresses her refusal to be influenced by these individuals and emphasizes her support for former President Donald Trump. Although the recording does not explicitly show DeWit offering a bribe, Lake reiterates her stance that she cannot be bought.
DeWit’s Defense
DeWit’s written letter claims that Lake selectively edited the audio recording and that he believed he was offering friendly advice rather than attempting to bribe her. He argues that the conversation took place in a private capacity and should not be misconstrued as unethical or malicious. DeWit also reveals that Lake has been on a mission to undermine him ever since he advised her to focus on a gubernatorial bid instead of her Senate campaign.
Conclusion
This resignation and bribery scandal have left the Arizona political landscape in disarray. The allegations and subsequent responses from the involved parties have brought attention to the conduct of leaders within the GOP. As the public awaits Lake’s response to the allegations, it remains uncertain how this controversy will unfold and impact the political careers of both DeWit and Lake. This incident serves as a reminder that political integrity and transparency are crucial in preserving public trust and confidence in elected officials.
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