Former President Donald Trump made a significant move on Monday, announcing his recommendations for key leadership positions within the Republican National Committee (RNC).
In his proposal, Trump suggested Michael Whatley, the chair of the North Carolina GOP, to replace Ronna McDaniel as the head of the RNC after this month's South Carolina Republican presidential primary.
Trump endorses new RNC chair, announces daughter-in-law's run for vice chair https://t.co/OX74R4F82H
— Fox News (@FoxNews) February 13, 2024
Trump's motivation for this change stemmed from Whatley's perceived effectiveness in addressing election fraud concerns during the 2020 election.
Trump officially endorsed Whatley for the RNC leadership role, citing his commitment to election integrity as crucial for preventing fraud in future elections.
Whatley, who has been a staunch supporter of Trump's claims of widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election, received Trump's endorsement amidst controversy and criticism from the Democratic National Committee, which labeled him an "extreme election denier."
Apart from recommending Whatley, Trump proposed his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, to serve as co-chair of the RNC. Praising Lara's communication skills and dedication to the "MAGA" movement, Trump expressed confidence in her ability to fulfill the role effectively.
"My very talented daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, has agreed to run as the RNC Co-Chair ... She has told me she wants to accept this challenge and would be GREAT," Trump wrote.
Trump suggested Chris LaCivita, a seasoned Republican strategist and senior adviser in Trump's 2024 campaign, as the chief operating officer of the RNC.
LaCivita, who previously served as a senior adviser to the RNC during Trump's 2016 presidential campaign, is viewed by Trump as instrumental in transforming the RNC into an effective force for the upcoming election.
Trump emphasized the importance of having a competent and supportive RNC leadership team as he seeks to reclaim the presidency in 2024. He stressed the need for fair and transparent elections and highlighted the RNC's role in mobilizing voters across the country.
Despite Trump's recent meeting with McDaniel and acknowledging her past tenure, he hinted at forthcoming changes within the RNC, signaling dissatisfaction with its current direction.
McDaniel, who faced criticism over her leadership and the RNC's financial standing, has been under pressure to address fundraising challenges facing the party.
Despite concerns, the RNC recorded its best monthly fundraising in January 2024. Trump's endorsement of new leadership reflects his determination to strengthen the RNC's position and maximize its support for his presidential bid in November.
