Conjecture. I can't read his mind. But if he really cared anything about the state party he could have waited until the media spotlight on Tucson dimmed a bit and then departed quietly. Instead he makes a public statement that—intended or not—dovetails with the propaganda campaign of left-wing media and politicians.
That's a good point. I don't really care that much or I would research the guy; so I'll conclude with the rhetorical question. Who is this flipping guy? And good riddance.