Republican National Committee chair Michael Whatley has stated that former President Donald Trump will play a significant role in supporting GOP candidates in the upcoming 2026 midterms, despite not being on the ballot himself. The Republican Party enjoyed major victories in the recent elections, with Trump winning the White House, the GOP gaining control of the Senate, and maintaining a slim majority in the House.
Whatley emphasized the importance of building state parties, enhancing the ground game, and ensuring election integrity for the upcoming primaries in 2026. He highlighted the need to retain control of the House and Senate to advance Trump's agenda.
Despite being out-raised by the Democrats in the past cycle, Whatley expressed confidence in the Republican Party's fundraising capabilities, especially with the party soon to control the White House. He underscored the success of the party's ground game efforts in engaging low propensity voters and reaching out to traditionally overlooked communities.
Looking ahead to the 2028 elections, Whatley mentioned that the RNC will maintain neutrality in the presidential primary and praised the Republican Party's diverse bench of governors, senators, and House members. He described Trump's 'America First' movement as transcending the former president and reshaping the GOP into a party that connects with all voters.
Unlike the DNC, the RNC has no plans to alter its primary calendar for 2028, keeping the traditional Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary as the initial contests. Whatley expressed contentment with the current calendar but indicated openness to discussions as the election cycle approaches.
