Staff Reports
Once again, former President Donald Trump is making moves behind the scenes to ensure that his influence on the Republican National Committee remains strong. With the impending departure of Ronna McDaniel, Trump has chosen to throw his support behind none other than Michael Whatley, chairman of the North Carolina state GOP.
This selection is a clear indication that Trump is not backing down from his claims that the 2020 election was stolen by President Joe Biden. Whatley, described as a “stop the steal guy,” has been a vocal defender of Trump’s assertions and was instrumental in delivering North Carolina to the former president in 2020.
Now that Ronna is stepping down later this month, I want to make a few points clear.
I have said repeatedly my opposition to Ronna as Chair was nothing personal. She has always been kind to me personally and I'm sure there is a role for her to play in the future. I genuinely…
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) February 7, 2024
McDaniel, who has been at the helm of the RNC since 2017, has come under fire for the party’s lackluster fundraising efforts and a perceived failure to prioritize election integrity. Her decision to step down on February 25th, following a one-on-one meeting with Trump at Mar-a-Lago, comes as no surprise after months of speculation about her future. Trump’s post on Truth Social hinted at imminent changes in RNC leadership, setting the stage for Whatley’s ascent.
Whatley’s leadership in North Carolina has led to significant victories for the state’s GOP, including supermajorities in the legislature and successful reelections. His endorsement by Trump has been met with praise from colleagues in North Carolina, who highlight his ability to deliver wins for the Republican Party.
McDaniel’s tenure has been marred by financial mismanagement, with the RNC consistently spending more than it has brought in for the past three years. Despite promises to attract high-level donors back into the fold, she has failed to deliver, leaving the party with minimal cash reserves and a significant debt. Trump’s continued popularity among small-dollar donors has further strained the RNC’s financial standing, underscoring the need for a change in leadership.
However, Whatley’s path to assuming the role of RNC chairman is not without obstacles. Winning over McDaniel’s allies within the committee and addressing the concerns of influential figures like Charlie Kirk from Turning Point USA will be crucial for his success. Kirk has been vocal in his support for a strong RNC, signaling the potential for continued friction within the party as the leadership transition unfolds.
The stage is set for a new chapter in the RNC’s leadership, with Trump’s endorsement propelling Whatley into the spotlight. As the party prepares for the 2024 election, the dynamics within the RNC are poised for a significant shake-up, reflecting Trump’s ongoing impact on the Republican establishment.
