Trump’s Influence Grows as Ronna McDaniel Steps Down from Republican National Committee Leadership

Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel has announced her resignation amidst pressure from former President Donald Trump, marking a significant shift in the GOP leadership.

The move, expected for weeks, follows Trump’s endorsement of North Carolina GOP Chair Michael Whatley as McDaniel’s replacement. Lara Trump, Trump’s daughter-in-law, is set to serve as the committee’s co-chair.

McDaniel, known for her staunch support of Trump, played a critical role in reshaping the GOP during her time as the party’s leader. However, Trump’s base increasingly held her responsible for the party’s 2020 election loss and recent electoral setbacks.

Alongside McDaniel, RNC co-chair Drew McKissick will also resign, as the GOP transitions from the primary stage to the general election campaign for the upcoming presidential race.

Donald Trump, likely to secure the Republican nomination by mid-March, holds significant influence over the party and its leadership changes. With McDaniel’s departure, Trump’s power within the RNC is becoming more pronounced.

The shakeup in leadership comes amid challenges for the GOP, including fundraising struggles and internal divisions. The party reported a lower cash reserve compared to the Democratic National Committee, adding pressure for restructuring and enhanced fundraising efforts.

McDaniel, the longest-serving RNC leader since the Civil War, was initially chosen by Trump shortly after the 2016 election. Her familial ties to Senator Mitt Romney, a known Trump critic, did not deter her from aligning with the former president.

As Chris LaCivita, Trump’s senior campaign adviser, takes over day-to-day operations at the RNC, the organization faces decisions on legal funding and alignment with Trump’s voter fraud claims. Whatley’s appointment, a close ally of Trump, is expected to reinforce the party’s support for Trump’s rhetoric.

The upcoming changes in RNC leadership are set to formalize Trump’s control over the party ahead of the 2024 elections, intensifying the party’s focus on Trump’s political agenda and messaging.