Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel is slated to step down from her position in March, paving the way for Donald Trump loyalists, including his daughter-in-law Lara Trump, to assume prominent leadership roles within the party.
McDaniel announced her impending resignation on Monday, stating to CNN, “I have decided to step aside at our Spring Training on March 8 in Houston to allow our nominee to select a Chair of their choosing.” She emphasized her commitment to the party’s goals of reclaiming the White House and electing Republicans in the upcoming November elections.
In tandem with McDaniel’s announcement, RNC Co-Chair Drew McKissick also disclosed his intention to step down.
The impending leadership change within the RNC underscores the enduring influence of former President Trump over the party. Trump has openly expressed his desire for North Carolina Republican Party Chairman Michael Whatley to succeed McDaniel, with Lara Trump assuming the role of co-chair.
Should Lara Trump assume the co-chair position, party leadership would become somewhat of a Trump family endeavor. Lara has recently articulated her vision of reshaping the Republican Party to prioritize familial involvement, potentially directing donations towards Trump’s 2024 campaign and legal expenses.
The prospect of Lara Trump assuming a leadership role has drawn criticism from the Democratic National Committee (DNC), which argues that such a move would effectively transform the RNC into a conduit for Trump’s personal interests and legal liabilities.
