(PartiallyPolitics.com) – Former President Trump is reportedly advocating for Michael Whatley, the current North Carolina GOP Chair, to succeed Ronna McDaniel as the head of the Republican National Committee (RNC) following the South Carolina primary on February 24th, according to Fox News Digital.
Insiders have indicated that Trump’s support for Whatley stems from Whatley’s strong stance on election integrity during the 2020 elections. Since taking on the role of North Carolina GOP chair in 2019, Whatley has also been involved with the RNC as general counsel. His efforts in North Carolina, a state Trump won in 2020, have been noted for maintaining election integrity despite the presence of a Democratic governor.
The push for leadership change is part of Trump’s broader strategy to ensure the security of votes in the upcoming 2024 general election, emphasizing the need for protected ballots.
Whatley’s background includes significant experience within the Republican Party and government, having served as a federal law clerk, a senior official under President George W. Bush, and chief of staff for former Senator Elizabeth Dole. His roles have also extended to advisory positions in several campaigns and transition teams, including those of Bush-Cheney and Trump-Pence.
Trump’s recent meeting with McDaniel at Mar-a-Lago and subsequent social media posts hint at forthcoming changes within the RNC post-South Carolina primary. Trump has expressed appreciation for McDaniel’s efforts, particularly in Michigan, but suggests that changes are likely.
McDaniel, who was re-elected last year, has already stated that her current term would be her last at the helm of the RNC. Any potential successor would need the endorsement of the 168 RNC committee members, who are expected to support Trump’s choice if he continues to dominate the primaries.
While formal decisions are deferred until after the South Carolina primary, there is anticipation about the integration of the RNC with the campaign operations of the Republican presidential nominee. Amidst speculation about her future, McDaniel has reassured RNC members of her continued commitment to the party’s success in the upcoming elections.
The developments come as Trump positions himself as a leading figure for the Republican nomination, with decisions and changes within the RNC expected to align with his vision for the party’s future.
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