![](https://static01.nyt.com/images/2024/01/27/multimedia/27nat-arizona-gop-wgph/27nat-arizona-gop-wgph-mediumSquareAt3X.jpg)
Arizona Republicans replaced their chairman, Jeff DeWit, following a scandal involving a recorded conversation that implied a bribe to Kari Lake. Gina Swoboda, a staunch Trump supporter, assumed the role, securing a majority vote. The decision underscores the influence of far-right Trump loyalists within the state party. The scandal further involved Kari Lake, a Senate candidate and ally of Trump, leading to a tumultuous nomination process for Swoboda. DeWit resigned after the release of the recording, claiming potential additional damaging recordings motivated his decision.