A chaotic Michigan Republican party convention over the weekend underscored the waning influence of high-profile election deniers and highlighted deep-seated divisions within the party.
Matthew DePerno, a prominent Michigan attorney and staunch advocate of Donald Trump’s debunked claims of a stolen 2020 election, withdrew from his candidacy for the state supreme court just hours before the convention. DePerno cited his decision to instead focus on supporting Republican candidates using his election expertise. He faced charges for allegedly aiding in a scheme to improperly access voting machines post-election.
DePerno, known for his vocal promotion of election fraud theories and funding of the controversial Arizona election audit, had previously lost a bid for Michigan attorney general in 2022. His defeat was followed by a loss in his attempt to become the state party chair, which went to Kristina Karamo – a fellow election conspiracy proponent who was later ousted amid financial mismanagement accusations.
The convention saw further turmoil when Karamo was escorted out by police. Initially given an all-access pass, Karamo’s credentials were revoked during the event, a move described by party chair Pete Hoekstra as a mistake. Karamo, surrounded by supporters, alleged party corruption as she was removed from the venue.
The Michigan Republican party has been plagued by internal strife and the influence of extremism and conspiracy theories for years. The recent convention revealed that these divisions remain prominent. During the event, the party nominated six individuals who were involved as fake electors in 2020 to serve as presidential electors this year. Following DePerno's exit, Patrick O'Grady, a circuit court judge, was selected as the party’s nominee for the state supreme court.
The discord within the Michigan GOP reflects broader challenges faced by the party as it grapples with its direction and identity amid ongoing controversies and factional disputes.
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