The communications director of Rep. Lauren Boebert of Colorado, a Republican freshman who carries a gun to work, quit his job after less than two weeks.
Why it matters: Ben Goldey’s resignation cites the uprising of the American Capitol last week, which followed the efforts of Boebert and lawmakers to block the certification of Joe Biden’s victory in Electoral College. The departure of the Hill veteran underscores the deep divisions among Republicans over President Trump’s actions.
What we hear: Goldey said in a statement to Axios: “After the events of January 6, I decided to separate from the office. I wish her and the residents of the Third District of Colorado the best.”
Between the lines: Boebert is a staunch Trump supporter who is strong on the right flank of the House GOP caucus. She was clear about her views during her campaign, but it suddenly became politically toxic after the attack last week.
- Boebert quickly becomes a lightning delivery by spotting Biden in a speech before the attack against “deceptive” voices and by making a show – including in an advertisement recorded on the hill – of her desire for a to carry a pistol in the Capitol.
- Goldey, on the other hand, has a more established pedigree. Until this year, he was the press secretary at the Department of Home Affairs, and previously worked for Senate Leader Mitch McConnell.
Be smart: Goldey’s resignation underscores major Republican divisions, especially in the House, where ten GOP members – including conference chair Liz Cheney – voted Wednesday to accuse Trump.
- The same division is evident on the other side of the Capitol. Sen Ted Cruz’s communications director, Lauren Blair Bianchi, also thank you Monday believes about Cruz’s role in the bid to deny Biden certification.
- Trump has fueled the rift since the election, demanding the overthrow of the presidential election, which helped fuel violence at the Capitol last week and was challenging his behavior, even though he made his second indictment by the House yesterday. faced.