Utah GOP Chair Candidate Phil Lyman Defends Tim Ballard in Emotional Remarks
In a tear-filled display of support, Utah GOP Chair candidate Phil Lyman came to the defense of embattled activist Tim Ballard, criticizing what he sees as a politically motivated takedown. Speaking on the Main Street Media radio show, ahead of the state party convention, Lyman urged Republicans to look beyond headlines. “Stop crucifying an individual who genuinely is on the front lines,” Lyman said, referring to Ballard’s work in combating human trafficking.
Lyman, who has represented San Juan County in the Utah Legislature and is now vying to lead the state party, grew visibly emotional when discussing Ballard. “Thank God for people like Tim Ballard,” he said, with tear-filled eyes.
Referencing sexual misconduct allegations that surfaced last year, Lyman suggested they were orchestrated to derail Ballard’s potential U.S. Senate run.
“The timing of the accusations and the takedown of Tim Ballard were so spot on for keeping him from becoming a Senator,” he said. “And then you look at the people…and all the lies that have been told, I think you're going to find out that Tim Ballard is not the devil in this story. He is the opposite of that. And thank God for the people who will go to those lengths.”