As he works to unseat two-term incumbent Sen. Mike Lee (R–Utah), Republican-turned-independent Evan McMullin has been eager to frame himself as the good guy.
In campaign ads, McMullin promises to be a "compassionate, selfless, and independent" candidate who won't get caught up in partisan extremism. Lee sold out his reputation and his values by engaging with former President Donald Trump's attempt to subvert the results of the 2020 election, McMullin argued to Politico a few months ago. "That's not what a constitutional conservative does," he said. On his campaign website, McMullin outlines 12 principles that he promises to adhere to if elected next month—including "reaffirm our founding beliefs," "defend the constitution," and "seek and promote truth."
