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Colorado GOP Chairman Dave Williams Ousted Amid Party Infighting
DENVER — In a decisive weekend vote, Colorado GOP Chairman Dave Williams was removed from his position, which he has since denounced as illegitimate. This leadership change has sparked a significant rift within the party as the upcoming November elections approach.
Williams’ leadership was marked by intense factionalism, with his approach heavily influenced by far-right ideologies and tactics reminiscent of Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump. This has resulted in confrontations with fellow Republicans who did not share his ultraconservative views, mirroring a broader national divide within the GOP.
His time as chairman saw the party endorse specific Republican candidates in primary elections, a strategy many state parties traditionally avoid. This endorsement process further fueled divisions, as opposition to Williams’ methods intensified among party members.
Allegations against Williams included misuse of state party resources during his failed congressional primary campaign, as well as his refusal to resign from his chairmanship while he was running. His controversial statements, including inflammatory remarks against the LGBTQ+ community, have also drawn backlash from some within the party.
Kristi Burton Brown, who previously led the Colorado GOP and oversaw the meeting that led to Williams’ ouster, identified his public attacks on Republican candidates, particularly during critical races, as a significant issue. She emphasized that such infighting detracted from party unity and effectiveness in upcoming elections.
The culmination of internal resistance resulted in a vote to remove Williams, with the majority of about 180 state party central committee members or their proxies voting in favor of his ouster. Williams disputed the meeting’s legitimacy, claiming that many committee members were absent and stating that the proper process for removal could only occur at a later meeting.
“This fringe minority faction knows they cannot get their way in a fair meeting where the rules are fairly administered,” Williams remarked in a text, highlighting the ongoing struggle for control within the party.
The debate surrounding Williams’ removal revolves around interpretations of the party bylaws, a situation that may escalate to the Republican National Committee for resolution. The National Republican Congressional Committee has declared its support for the vote and the newly appointed leadership.
In his defense, Williams insisted that the NRCC lacks the authority to influence the state party’s decisions.
During his tenure, Williams also participated in a primary for a U.S. House seat in Colorado Springs, where, despite gaining the endorsement of Trump, he was defeated by a rival with more moderate positions.
This political upheaval highlights the tension between extremist politics and traditional conservatism within the GOP as it strives to unify ahead of critical elections.
Source
abcnews.go.com