Trump-Endorsed Successor In The Wings As RNC Chair McDaniel Plans To Step Down

The current chairwoman of the Republican National Committee (RNC), Ronna McDaniel, is reportedly planning to resign after the South Carolina primary, with a successor already being considered.

What Happened: McDaniel is expected to leave her position following the South Carolina primary on Feb. 24, according to two sources familiar with the matter, The New York Times reported on Tuesday.

Former President Donald Trump is likely to endorse the current chairman of the North Carolina Republican Party, Michael Whatley, as McDaniel’s replacement, according to unnamed sources. However, the RNC’s rules stipulate that a new election must take place, and Whatley may face internal party opposition.

Whatley is known for his unwavering support of Trump’s claims of widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election. Trump is reportedly impressed with Whatley’s endorsement of these claims and his role in securing North Carolina, a crucial swing state, for Trump in 2020.

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Despite Trump’s ongoing criticism of the RNC’s election efforts, the committee has been actively involved in election integrity lawsuits across 23 states.

Trump and McDaniel met at Mar-a-Lago on Monday, where Trump hinted at impending changes. McDaniel had been considering leaving before the end of her term. Despite some of Trump’s allies’ animosity towards her, Trump has been relatively understanding of her imminent departure in his public comments.

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Why It Matters: The imminent departure of McDaniel comes in the wake of intense pressure on the RNC’s leadership. The RNC’s financial situation has been a point of concern, with Trump allies criticizing McDaniel’s leadership. Trump himself had hinted at potential leadership changes within the RNC.

McDaniel’s resignation could mark a significant shift in the RNC’s leadership, with a replacement like Whatley indicating a continued focus on Trump’s election security narrative despite the lack of evidence for widespread fraud in the 2020 election.

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