Who expected this?
Indiana Republicans have chosen pastor Micah Beckwith as their nominee for lieutenant governor, rejecting the Trump-backed candidate, Republican state Rep. Julie McGuire. This decision marks the first contested race for this position within the party since 1996.
Beckwith’s victory came after a narrow vote, securing the nomination with 891 votes to McGuire’s 828. Beckwith expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm, emphasizing the importance of government power resting with the people, as he left the convention stage to the tune of “God Bless the U.S.A.”
Sen. Mike Braun, who had secured the Republican primary for governor earlier this year, endorsed McGuire alongside former President Donald Trump. However, Beckwith’s supporters remained steadfast, rendering Trump’s endorsement ineffective, as reported by the Indianapolis Star.
Braun, addressing the delegates, noted his conversation with Trump where he sought an endorsement for McGuire, highlighting the importance of strategic support. Despite Braun’s efforts, some delegates were skeptical of Trump’s involvement. David Winters, a delegate from Danville, expressed his unwavering support for Trump but doubted Trump’s awareness of the local political landscape, attributing loyalty as a significant factor in the decision-making process.
Nate Lamar, an undecided delegate from Henry County, dismissed the significance of Trump’s endorsement, labeling Trump as an opportunist rather than a true Republican.
Traditionally, Indiana’s lieutenant governor nominees are selected by approximately 1,800 elected delegates in a convention style, a process that hadn’t seen a contest in three decades until this year. Following Beckwith’s nomination, Braun hinted at potential challenges in their working relationship should they win office, asserting his leadership while emphasizing the necessity for Beckwith’s cooperation.
Beckwith, who has echoed some of Trump’s positions, notably called the January 6 insurrection a divine act and pledged to counter the Democrats’ “woke” agenda.
The Indiana Democratic Party views the potential friction between Braun and Beckwith as an opportunity. Party Chairman Mike Schmuhl pointed out the divisions within the Republican ranks, criticizing the convention’s outcome as a sign of extremist influence.
An internal memo from GOP lawyer and Braun surrogate James Bopp Jr., obtained by Politico, revealed concerns within the party regarding Beckwith’s impact on Braun’s candidacy, suggesting that his nomination might pose a significant challenge to their campaign’s success.
In summary, the Indiana GOP’s recent convention has highlighted internal divisions and set the stage for a potentially tumultuous gubernatorial campaign, with Democrats eyeing these fissures as a possible advantage in the upcoming election.