In recent developments, Donald Trump has solidified his influence over the Republican National Committee (RNC), with the organization set to endorse individuals closely aligned with the 45th president for key positions, including his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump.
According to AP, Michael Whatley, a staunch supporter of Trump from North Carolina who has endorsed Trump’s claims of election fraud, is poised to be named the new national chairman of the party during a vote scheduled for Friday morning in Houston.
Lara Trump is slated to take on the role of co-chair, a position previously held by Maureen Reagan, Ronald Reagan’s daughter, in the 1980s, marking the last instance a president’s family member served in such a capacity within the RNC.
While Whatley will hold the prestigious title, replacing the outgoing chair Ronna McDaniel, who announced her exit last week as reported by Breitbart News, he will be in the company of individuals more closely associated with Trump.
The report by AP further elaborates that Lara Trump will primarily concentrate on fundraising and media engagements. Chris LaCivita, who will step into the chief of staff role at the RNC while also serving as a leading advisor for the Trump campaign, is expected to be the operational leader. With Trump’s endorsement, LaCivita plans to implement comprehensive reforms and staffing changes across the RNC to align it more closely with the Trump campaign’s objectives.
These high-level appointments are anticipated to be confirmed shortly after the initial reports surfaced, as the party prepares for the upcoming November elections.
Josh McKoon, the chair of the Georgia Republican Party and an RNC member, expressed support for the appointments of Whatley and Trump in a conversation with Reuters, stating, “These moves make a lot of sense.” He highlighted the need for substantial financial resources in the face of an incumbent president and praised Lara Trump’s proven capabilities in fundraising and communication, dismissing any concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest.