Republican delegates in North Carolina voted Saturday at their annual convention to censure Thom Tillis, the state’s senior U.S. senator, for backing LGBTQ+ rights, immigration, and gun violence policies. The move comes as Sen. Tillis’ willingness to work across the aisle has gained him influence in Congress, but also raised concerns among some state Republicans that he has strayed from conservative values.
Party Rift: Conservative Concerns about Sen. Tillis’ Record
Kabul24: Several delegates in Greensboro criticized Tillis for his work on the Respect For Marriage Act, which enshrined protections for same-sex and interracial marriages in federal law. The state and national GOP platforms oppose same-sex marriage, and Tillis’ support for the law has drawn criticism from within his own party.
Key Policies at Stake: Same-Sex Marriage, Immigration, and Gun Control
Tillis faced additional backlash for challenging former President Donald Trump’s immigration policies and supporting a measure that provided funds for red flag laws, allowing temporary firearm removal for those deemed dangerous. These positions clashed with the conservative ideals held by some Republican delegates.
Senator’s Defense: A Record of Promises and Results
Tillis’ spokesperson, Daniel Keylin, defended the senator’s voting record, highlighting his accomplishments such as passing the largest tax cut in history and securing the border. Keylin emphasized Tillis’ support for protecting traditional marriage and the rights of churches to worship freely based on their beliefs. Despite the criticism, Tillis maintains his commitment to delivering results.
Firm Message of Dissatisfaction: Censure Vote Sends a Signal
The censure vote, held behind closed doors, cannot remove Tillis from office but aims to express dissatisfaction. Supporters of the resolution hope it sends a strong message that some Republican delegates are unhappy with the senator’s alignment with progressive policies. The resolution required a two-thirds majority of the state party’s voting delegates to pass.
Intra-Party Divisions: Legislators Express Concerns and Unity Challenges
While the censure received support from some delegates, state legislators like Sen. Bobby Hanig expressed concerns about further divisions within the party, especially in an election year where unity is crucial. Hanig emphasized Tillis’ contributions to North Carolina and coastal communities and questioned the wisdom of alienating a valuable ally.
State Sen. Jim Burgin voiced worries about setting a dangerous precedent with the censure, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in interpreting party values. Burgin also wondered whether his own vote in favor of North Carolina’s 12-week abortion ban, which contradicts the Republican platform, could make him vulnerable to censure.
As the Republican Party in North Carolina grapples with internal tensions, the censure of Sen. Thom Tillis highlights the challenges of maintaining party unity while accommodating diverse perspectives within its ranks.
