In an unexpected turn of events, the Republican Party of San Diego County is facing controversy as Chairwoman Paula Whitsell attempts to change the party’s endorsement in the 75th Assembly District race from Andrew Hayes to Carl DeMaio. The dispute was detailed in an email sent by Republican Coronado Mayor Richard Bailey to the party’s Central Committee, accusing Whitsell of abusing her power to manipulate the endorsement process.
Hayes and DeMaio were the top two vote getters in the Primary Election for the seat, left vacant by termed-out Assemblymember Marie Waldron. Despite Hayes receiving endorsements from various Republican officials, Whitsell called for a new vote to endorse DeMaio for the General Election, a move that was met with opposition from the party’s Central Committee.
The situation escalated further as Whitsell removed a member of the Executive Committee, Scott Sherman, for not supporting her motion to endorse DeMaio. Bailey also raised concerns about another member, Matt Stockton, allegedly representing a district he does not live in, who was appointed to the Executive Committee by Whitsell.
The controversy has prompted Bailey to speak out against Whitsell’s actions, calling for adherence to party bylaws and an end to the abuse of power. The party is now set to hold a special Executive Committee meeting to revisit the issue, as tensions within the Republican Party of San Diego County run high.
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Photo credit voiceofsandiego.org
