RNC Chair to Step Down After South Carolina Primary

Ronna McDaniel, the Chairwoman of the Republican National Committee, informed former President Donald Trump of her intention to resign from her role following the South Carolina primary scheduled for February 24th.

Trump announced on his social media platform, Truth Social, that he will finalize his decision the day following the South Carolina primary. Sources speaking to the Associated Press suggest that Trump is likely to endorse Michael Whatley, the Republican Party Chairman of North Carolina. 

However, CNN indicates that Drew McKissick, the Republican Party Chairman of South Carolina, and Joe Gruters, a Florida State Senator, are also being considered as potential candidates.

McDaniel has held the position of RNC Chairwoman since 2017, securing her fourth term in the role only a month ago. She stands as one of the RNC’s longest-serving chairs in recent decades, having transitioned into the role after serving as the chairwoman of the Michigan Republican Party. During a private discussion with Trump, McDaniel expressed her readiness to prioritize the party’s best interests.

However, criticism of McDaniel has persisted within the party over the past year. FEC reports indicate that the RNC started 2024 with just $8 million in funds, marking the lowest cash reserve for the party since 2014. The year 2023 saw the poorest fundraising performance for the RNC since that time.

Initially backing McDaniel, Trump has recently distanced himself from endorsing her. Although not directly faulting her, Trump has suggested that “some changes” are necessary in RNC leadership. In a recent interview, when questioned about whether it was time for McDaniel to step down, Trump indicated that he believes “she understands that.” However, he did commend her efforts in Michigan.

In November, Vivek Ramaswamy, who was then a candidate, initiated a petition seeking the removal of McDaniel from her role after urging her to resign during the Miami Republican primary debate. Ramaswamy labeled her as a detriment to the Republican establishment.