Former President Donald Trump is poised to solidify his control over the Republican National Committee as party officials prepare to vote on his hand-picked leadership team in Houston. The new leadership team, including Trump's daughter-in-law Lara Trump, is expected to take the reins of the RNC's political and fundraising operations.
Michael Whatley, a North Carolina Republican aligned with Trump's claims of voter fraud, is set to become the party's new national chairman, with Lara Trump serving as co-chair. The leadership changes signal a shift towards closer alignment with Trump's political agenda.
Despite concerns about the RNC potentially funding Trump's legal bills, the new leadership team has assured that no party funds will be used for this purpose. Instead, Trump's legal expenses are being covered by his affiliated Save America political action committee.
The incoming leadership team, led by Whatley and Lara Trump, is expected to focus on fundraising, media appearances, and promoting Trump's messaging on election integrity. The RNC's finances will undergo scrutiny to ensure resources are directed towards winning elections.
While some RNC members remain skeptical about the party's direction under Trump's influence, the new leadership team is poised to embrace Trump's emphasis on voter fraud and election integrity. Whatley, the incoming chairman, has highlighted election integrity as a key priority for the party.
Trump's takeover of the GOP has sparked internal tensions, with outgoing chair Ronna McDaniel facing pressure to resign. Trump's growing influence within the party has led to concerns about potential distractions and divisions among Republicans.
As Trump cements his control over the RNC, the party faces a pivotal moment in its alignment with the former president's political vision. The transition in leadership reflects broader shifts within the GOP as it prepares for the upcoming presidential election cycle.
