The Michigan Republican Party is embroiled in an internal power struggle between pro-Trump and more traditional factions.
Kristina Karamo, an ardent Trump supporter who denies his 2020 loss, took over as party chair last year but refused to work with longtime donors and activists.
Steve Willis, chair of the Clinton County GOP, said, “I don’t think he should be involved in state politics to begin with.”
“He’s just listening to people that have his ear and he makes a decision,” he continued.
This led to a financial crisis as donations dried up.
Pete Hoekstra, backed by Trump and the RNC, is trying to rebuild the party infrastructure and donor relationships as the recognized chair.
Hoekstra said, “We need to build the brand back, with our grassroots and our donor class.”
“My intention is to rebuild those relationships,” she added.
Karamo said, “a coup by the big establishment Republicans to try to seize what they couldn’t get in a decent, honest election.”
“Kristina’s faction has more people. But Pete Hoekstra’s faction has more money,” he continued.
Trump said, “I said, ’Do you can think you can ever get this guy Hoekstra? He’s unbelievable.”
“And you were willing to do it. And I appreciate it. Everybody appreciates it. We’re going to win,” he encouraged.
Steve Willis, chair of the Clinton County GOP, said, “I will not deny that we are growing increasingly alarmed by reports that the MIGOP is in dire financial straits and grossly mismanaging their limited funds.”
He continued, “These do not seem to be the actions of a state party that adheres to conservative principles; or frankly, one that has the desire or ability to elect Republicans to office.”
Former Michigan GOP Chairman Ron Weiser, said, “He brings credibility and acceptability with donors — to major donors — that’s for sure.”
“People know him and he’s from west Michigan, which is where you have your largest percentage of major donors on the Republican side.”
“It’s not nearly where we need to be. The nice thing is you call these people and ask for help and they they’ve been ignored for a year, and they feel, hallelujah, someone’s asking them to do something,” he said.
Iosco County GOP Chair David Chandler said, “fundraising isn’t really a requirement.”
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