In a recent development, former US President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, to head the Republican National Committee (RNC). Along with Lara Trump, Trump also endorsed Michael Whatley, the chair of North Carolina’s Republican party, for the role of RNC chair. Trump’s endorsement comes amid growing frustration with the RNC’s current leadership, and if Ronna McDaniel, the current head of the committee, steps down, a vote will be held for new leadership. This move by Trump is expected to have a significant impact within the RNC as he remains the frontrunner candidate for the Republican party.
Lara Trump, who is married to Trump’s son Eric, is regarded as a highly skilled communicator and a dedicated advocate of Make America Great Again (MAGA) principles. She has previously collaborated closely with the RNC and has proven her effectiveness as a fundraiser. It is worth mentioning that party rules stipulate the presence of one male and one female leader at the helm of the RNC, which aligns with Trump’s endorsement of Lara Trump for the role of RNC co-chair.
In addition to Lara Trump, Trump has also proposed Chris LaCivita, the co-manager of his current presidential campaign, for the position of RNC’s chief operating officer. The move would not only align Trump’s campaign closely with the committee’s operations but would also retain LaCivita’s position as Trump’s co-campaign manager. However, it is important to note that Trump’s endorsements have not always guaranteed success, as Michael Whatley previously received Trump’s endorsement in a failed bid for co-chair in 2023.
The endorsement of Lara Trump and Michael Whatley signals a push for leadership change within the RNC, triggered by disagreements between Trump and Ronna McDaniel. One of the major points of contention has been the Republican primary debates leading up to this year’s election. Trump has chosen not to participate in any debates and even urged McDaniel to cancel them altogether, a request she refused. In addition to this, the RNC has faced criticism for its poor performance in recent elections and lackluster fundraising, putting pressure on McDaniel.
Reports of McDaniel’s possible resignation came to light after her meeting with Trump at Mar-a-Lago last week. McDaniel assured Trump that she would do what is best for the party, including stepping down. News of her possible resignation emerged when asked directly if she should resign, Trump responded, “I think she knows that, I think she understands that.” If McDaniel does step down, it would create room for new leadership within the RNC, aligning it more closely with Trump’s campaign goals and strategies.
It remains to be seen how Trump’s endorsements will play out and whether they will lead to a change in the RNC’s leadership. The influence and sway of his endorsement within the party cannot be underestimated, given his status as the frontrunner candidate for the Republican party. As the Republican primary unfolds, the dynamics within the RNC will undoubtedly be closely monitored by political observers and party members alike.
