Former President Trump Calls for Daughter-in-Law and Top Aide to Take Prominent Roles at Republican National Committee
Former president Donald Trump has expressed his desire for his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, and top aide, Chris LaCivita, to assume key positions at the Republican National Committee (RNC) as his team seeks to exert control over the party leading up to the November election. In a statement, Trump endorsed Michael Whatley, the chair of the North Carolina GOP, to replace Ronna McDaniel as the new chairman of the party. However, he also stated his support for Lara Trump as co-chair of the party and Chris LaCivita as the top operating officer.
A Strong Foundation for the Presidential Election
Trump emphasized the importance of the RNC’s role in the upcoming presidential election, stating, “The RNC MUST be a good partner in the Presidential election. It must do the work we expect from the national Party and do it flawlessly.” He called for fair and transparent elections across the country, an extensive voter turnout campaign, and collaboration with his campaign to secure victory and “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
Growing Criticism of Ronna McDaniel
These moves come amidst Donald Trump’s increasing criticism of Ronna McDaniel, the current chair of the RNC. It is likely that McDaniel will step down from her position after the South Carolina primary on February 24 due to Trump’s dissatisfaction with lagging fundraising and other issues. Chris LaCivita has expressed his intention to bring about significant changes within the organization.
Endorsement Strengthens Likely Appointments
While the 168 members of the Republican Party will have to vote on Michael Whatley, Lara Trump, and Chris LaCivita, Trump’s endorsement makes their appointments highly probable, according to longtime party observers. The sudden announcement of this plan on Monday surprised some party officials who had been engaged in negotiations with Trump regarding the transition. The announcement was moved up due to leaks, with an adviser stating, “It was just to rip the Band-Aid off and get it all over with.”
Implications of Family and Aide’s Involvement
The potential inclusion of Lara Trump as co-chair and Chris LaCivita as the top operating officer would grant Donald Trump extensive operational control over the RNC, including its significant spending during the election. The party has previously covered millions of dollars in Trump’s legal fees prior to his official candidacy in 2024 and could potentially do so again. Lara Trump, married to Eric Trump, has been actively involved in her father-in-law’s political efforts and even considered a Senate run. The co-chair position typically carries a salary of around $250,000.
Chris LaCivita brings a wealth of experience in Republican politics and currently serves as a top aide on the campaign. Ronna McDaniel’s decision to potentially step down follows her recent visit to Mar-a-Lago, Donald Trump’s private club in Florida. Although she was expected to serve until 2025, her relationship with Trump deteriorated during the Republican primary debates featuring his challengers last fall. Trump had requested their cancellation, but McDaniel declined.
Financial Concerns and Criticism
Trump and his allies have expressed discontent with the RNC’s lackluster fundraising performance, as it had approximately half the funds of the Democratic National Committee by the end of December. Betsy Ankeny, the campaign manager for Trump primary challenger Nikki Haley, criticized Trump’s reorganization of the RNC, stating, “Under Donald Trump and current RNC leadership, Republicans lost elections in 2018, 2020, and 2022, and now the RNC is effectively bankrupt.” Ankeny further added that Haley’s plan for the RNC would involve a complete overhaul.
The Future of the Republican National Committee
While the transition of leadership within the RNC is expected to occur in March, it remains uncertain how these changes will impact the party’s trajectory. With Trump’s endorsements, Lara Trump and Chris LaCivita are poised to play significant roles in shaping the RNC’s strategy and direction. As the November election approaches, all eyes will be on the Republican Party’s efforts to regain control and propel their candidate to victory.
