Trump Endorses New RNC Chair

Former President Donald Trump is set to endorse North Carolina GOP Chair Michael Whatley as the successor to Ronna McDaniel, the current leader of the Republican National Committee (RNC), according to a Republican operative familiar with Trump’s decision.

This endorsement solidifies Trump’s push for a change in leadership at the committee, reflecting his reported frustration with McDaniel in recent weeks.

In addition to supporting Whatley, Trump will also endorse Lara Trump, his daughter-in-law, for the role of RNC co-chairwoman. Lara Trump, a former on-air surrogate for the ex-president, was briefly considered as a potential candidate for the North Carolina Senate during the 2022 campaign.

It’s important to note that the endorsement doesn’t guarantee automatic appointment to these positions. A vote among committee members will be necessary if McDaniel steps down, which is expected shortly after the South Carolina primary on Feb. 24. However, it is likely to be a formality, as party members are expected to align with the preferences of the presumptive presidential nominee.

As part of Trump’s efforts to restructure the RNC, Chris LaCivita will be appointed as the RNC chief operating officer. LaCivita, who will continue his role as co-campaign manager of the Trump campaign, will assume this position once a new chair takes office.

In a statement, Trump emphasized the importance of the RNC as a reliable partner in the presidential election, highlighting the need for fair and transparent elections, robust voter turnout efforts, and collaboration with his campaign.

Whatley’s selection by Trump is influenced by the North Carolinian’s emphasis on addressing baseless allegations of election fraud, a cause important to the former president. Whatley has previously argued for increased scrutiny of elections and defended Trump regarding the Jan. 6 Capitol siege, placing blame on the rioters rather than the then president.

These organizational changes within the RNC result from discussions between Trump and his advisers over recent weeks regarding the committee’s future. In his new role, LaCivita will divide his time between Trump’s headquarters in Palm Beach, Florida, and the RNC offices in Washington, D.C., focusing on the committee’s efforts in battleground states. The New York Times and Fox News previously reported on Trump’s expected support for Whatley.