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| Ronna McDaniel Set to Depart as RNC Chair Ahead of 2024 Elections |
In a significant shake-up within the Republican Party, Ronna McDaniel, who has steered the Republican National Committee (RNC) since her appointment by former President Donald Trump in late 2016, is poised to step down from her position ahead of the 2024 general election, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Insiders close to the former president revealed that McDaniel's departure from her role as RNC chair is imminent, marking the end of her tenure at the helm of one of the nation's most influential political organizations. While details of her exit plan are still unfolding, speculation abounds regarding the timing and implications of her impending resignation.
According to an RNC member privy to the situation, McDaniel is expected to formally announce her departure following the South Carolina Republican primary scheduled for February 24. However, conflicting reports suggest that McDaniel's intentions remain unclear, with some committee veterans claiming they have not been briefed on her plans.
Responding to rumors surrounding McDaniel's future, an RNC spokesman sought to quell speculation, emphasizing that no final decision has been made regarding her departure. "Nothing has changed," remarked Keith Schipper in a statement, underscoring the fluidity of the situation. "This will be decided after South Carolina," he added, hinting at the possibility of further developments in the coming days.
Should McDaniel vacate her position, the RNC would be tasked with organizing an election to select her successor. Speculation is rife within party circles about potential candidates to fill the coveted role, with Trump allies reportedly lobbying for Michael Whatley, the current head of the North Carolina Republican Party, to assume the mantle of RNC chair. Additionally, Jessica Patterson, chair of the California Republican Party, has emerged as a contender for the co-chair position.
Amidst the flurry of names being floated for the coveted post, former Florida GOP chairman Joe Gruters has also thrown his hat into the ring. Gruters, who played a pivotal role in Trump's 2016 campaign in Florida, has garnered support from loyalists for his unwavering allegiance to the former president, despite facing competition from Governor Ron DeSantis, who is vying for the 2024 Republican nomination.
News of McDaniel's impending departure was initially reported by the New York Times, adding fuel to the speculation surrounding the leadership transition within the RNC. As the party braces for a new era under fresh leadership, the outcome of the impending election for RNC chair holds significant implications for the GOP's trajectory leading up to the highly anticipated 2024 elections.
