Last week, a physical fight broke out among members of the Michigan Republican Party, resulting in police being called to break up the altercation.
The GOP’s state committee gathered for a meeting at the Doherty Hotel in Clare, Michigan, to discuss the leadership approach of new chairwoman, Kristina Karamo. Some party members arrived at the venue feeling displeased with being excluded from the meeting. Few Republicans reportedly listened to the conference through a locked door.
One of those people was Mark DeYoung, chairman of the Clare County Republican party. DeYoung allegedly approached the door and saw Wayne County GOP James Chapman flip him off through the window.
DeYoung then interrupted the private meeting. Chapman stood up from his seat and swung at him, threatening to “kick [DeYoung’s] a–.”
Chapman reportedly took off his glasses and took DeYoung out by the legs, exclaiming, “When you see me taking my glasses off, I’m ready to rock.”
Police were called to the scene, and DeYoung and Chapman were both taken to the emergency room following the fight. DeYoung was treated for a broken rib.
Michigan Republicans have appeared to be at odds with each other in recent weeks. Members of the party have been suing and attempting to harm one another since early June.
Karamo’s recent rise in power has also been a point of contention amongst state GOPs. Some do not agree with her leadership style and claim that she does not provide enough information about fundraising and spending. She recently fired budget committee chairman Matt Johnson, who predicted that the party may go bankrupt.
Many Republicans fear that these tensions will hurt the party in the upcoming election cycle in which Michigan is a crucial swing state.
