Slate senior writer Ben Mathis-Lilley discusses how the MAGA wing of the Michigan GOP is causing chaos and infighting within the party. They've limited fundraising and leadership, distrust each other, and are grappling with post-election suspicions, leading to a state of civil war for control within the party.
MAGA faction in Michigan GOP hampers party functions creating financial and leadership crises.
Internal power struggles within Michigan GOP highlight challenges faced by state parties nationwide.
Deep dives
Internal Strife in Michigan GOP
The Michigan State GOP is facing internal divisions and dysfunction, exemplifying broader issues within state Republican parties. Financial struggles, leadership conflicts, and a chaotic nominating convention reflect the party's turmoil. The infighting and lack of unity have led to challenges in decision-making and coordination, hindering effective party operations.
Rise and Fall of Christina Karamo
Christina Karamo, a key figure in the Michigan Republican Party, rose to prominence by promoting the narrative of election fraud in Michigan. Her leadership reflected a shift towards grassroots fundraising, alienating traditional donors. Karamo's refusal to acknowledge defeat and financial mismanagement resulted in her removal from the party chair position, showcasing the consequences of internal power struggles.
State Parties' Impact on Elections
The dysfunction in Michigan's GOP mirrors challenges faced by state parties nationwide, affecting election strategies and organizational effectiveness. Similar financial issues and ideological divisions are prevalent in states like Arizona, Georgia, and Nevada. The intense internal battles within state parties may jeopardize their ground operations and impact electoral outcomes, raising concerns about the parties' ability to unify for electoral success.
They’re suspicious of the 2020 election results, their donors, and each other. Now, the MAGA wing of the Michigan GOP is in control—and has kneecapped the state Republican party’s ability to fundraise, appoint leaders, and perform its most basic institutional functions.
Guest: Ben Mathis-Lilley, Slate senior writer
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Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther.