Here’s what GOP gubernatorial candidates Karrin Taylor Robson, Kari Lake said on Election Day
Aug 2, 2022, 11:27 PM | Updated: Aug 3, 2022, 1:21 am
(AP Photos/Ross D. Franklin and Matt York)
PHOENIX — Republican Arizona gubernatorial candidates Karrin Taylor Robson and Kari Lake both spoke to supporters on primary Election Day, with each stating confidence in the race that remained too close to call.
Taylor Robson had 49.2% of votes compared to Lake’s 40.3% on the first drop of results, according to the Arizona Secretary of State’s Office.
She made the speech before more ballots came in that left Lake with a slight lead over Taylor Robson.
“We’re way ahead,” Taylor Robson said. “We continue to maintain a solid lead thanks to the support of Arizonans just like you.
“You have entrusted me with the most powerful possession that exists in the constitutional republic, your vote and that means the world to me and I will not let you down.”
She told her supporters to be patient as the process is not over and ballots will continue to be processed overnight and in the coming days.
“There are a lot of good people involved in this process and it is vitally important that they take the time necessary to get it right,” Taylor Robson said. “Whether you cast a ballot for me or one of my opponents, every legitimate vote counts.”
Lake’s speech to her supporters had a different tone, with the former TV anchor and consistent leader in the polls all but announcing victory despite trailing.
“We won today seven-out-of-10 Election Day votes,” said Lake, who’s backed by former President Donald Trump. “Those votes are not counted yet. There is no path to victory for my opponent and we won this race. Period.”
She insisted her voters went to the polls on Election Day.
Lake also mentioned the issues in Pinal County, where some voting locations were dealing with ballot shortages.
“What the hell is going on,” Lake said. “This is why we are in this race. This is why we have this movement right here.”
Taylor Robson before Lake took the stage told her supporters her legal team is watching everything very closely.
“She started making vague accusations about voter fraud even before the first vote was counted but don’t let her get you down,” she said. “Remember, talk is cheap.
“She has no veto process over the votes being carried out and the process being carried out now, nor over the will of Arizona voters. Period.”
The winner will take on Katie Hobbs in the November general election after she won her party’s primary.