Ronna McDaniel announced she will resign as chair of the Republican National Committee (RNC) on March 8th, keeping with the tradition of allowing the party’s presidential nominee to select new leadership.
While her tenure saw some successes like keeping GOP House control and expanding voter programs, her resignation was not fully on her terms as sources say former President Trump indicated a desire for change after weak fundraising.
“I have decided to step aside at our Spring Training on March 8 in Houston to allow our nominee to select a Chair of their choosing,” McDaniel wrote. “The RNC has historically undergone change once we have a nominee and it has always been my intention to honor that tradition.”
“Some of my proudest accomplishments include firing Nancy Pelosi, winning the popular vote in 2022, creating an Election Integrity Department, building the committee’s first small dollar grassroots donor program, strengthening our state parties through our Growing Republican Organizations to Win program, expanding the Party through minority outreach at our community centers, and launching Bank Your Vote to get Republicans to commit to voting early,” McDaniel said.
McDaniel’s top deputy also resigned.
“Willing to put self aside for the sake of building a team and focusing on winning is a big part of being successful. With that in mind, I’m submitting my resignation as Co-Chair, effective upon the election of my successor at the upcoming Spring Training in Houston,” top deputy Drew McKissick said.
The RNC is expected to select North Carolina GOP chair Michael Whately to replace McDaniel, further cementing Trump’s grip on the party as the only other presidential candidate, Nikki Haley, lost her home state of South Carolina.
Without a neutral RNC, Haley’s time in the race may be short.