Republican National Committee chairwoman Ronna McDaniel is facing increasing pressure to resign from her position after the South Carolina primary, according to multiple sources close to the organization as reported by the New York Times on Tuesday evening. McDaniel’s planned resignation follows a recent controversy surrounding her leadership and the use of RNC funds for frivolous spending during the RNC’s winter meeting.
According to sources familiar with the situation, McDaniel plans to step down sometime after the South Carolina primary, which is scheduled for February 24th. It is reported that she has already informed former President Donald J. Trump of her decision, leading him to identify a potential replacement in the form of Michael Whatley, Chairman of the North Carolina Republican Party.
One of the main factors influencing Trump’s choice of Whatley is believed to be his fervent support for Trump’s baseless claims of widespread voter fraud during the 2020 election. This information was shared by people close to the former president who told the Times that Trump was impressed by Whatley’s success in delivering North Carolina’s votes during the election. However, it should be noted that under the RNC’s rules, the appointment of a new chairperson must go through an electoral process.
NEWS: Ronna McDaniel circulated a memo to RNC members Wednesday stating that she has not, in fact, decided to step down (for now at least), @reaganreese_ reports. Multiple RNC members told the @DailyCaller they were stunned by rumors of her departure https://t.co/qVhDqX7Xbs
— Dylan Housman (@Dylan_Housman) February 7, 2024
This news comes on the heels of reports that McDaniel faced criticism during the RNC’s winter meeting in Las Vegas, following revelations of questionable spending and misplaced priorities. According to sources within the meeting, McDaniel was upset by the negative coverage and attempted to discredit it by enlisting Budget Committee Chair Christine Toretti to send an email refuting the claims to all members of the organization. However, her efforts were in vain and the controversy only grew stronger.
In response to these concerns, McDaniel sent an email to all RNC members on Wednesday morning, stating that “nothing has changed” and that any potential changes “will not be decided on until after South Carolina”. It is unclear what the exact reasoning behind her decision to resign may be, as the Times reported that she has been considering stepping down for some time now.
NEW — I got an exclusive first look at @jenvanlaar's new report on the RNC's lavish spending on limos, consultants, flowers, and office supplies while skimping on GOTV, data, and state parties:
Floral Arrangements:
RNC - $70,328.00
DNC - $795Consultants:
RNC - $1,078,279.47… pic.twitter.com/Orl9SmZ9Xi— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) February 1, 2024
The RNC, under McDaniel’s leadership, has been a staunch supporter of Donald Trump and his policies. However, the recent controversy surrounding her leadership and use of RNC funds has brought the organization unwanted attention and raised questions about its focus and priorities. This has also led to tensions within the RNC itself, with some members reportedly calling for changes in leadership.
McDaniel, who was handpicked by Trump to lead the RNC in 2017, is the niece of Utah Senator Mitt Romney. She has been a vocal advocate for Trump during his presidency and played a key role in his 2020 re-election campaign. However, her departure from the RNC may signify a change in the party’s trajectory and strategy in the future.
As the news of McDaniel’s impending resignation spreads, speculation abounds about the potential impact on the Republican Party and its relationship with Donald Trump. It is also unclear at this time when exactly the RNC will hold an election for a new chairperson and what changes may come with a new leader at the helm. These uncertainties are sure to dominate discussions within the RNC in the coming weeks, as the party struggles to find its footing and move forward.