Former President Donald Trump is reportedly becoming increasingly dissatisfied with Ronna McDaniel, the chairwoman of the Republican National Committee (RNC), as the GOP faces recent electoral setbacks. After losses in Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio, some of Trump’s allies are pointing fingers at McDaniel’s leadership for the party’s struggles and are urging Trump to press for her resignation.
Trump allies blame McDaniel for the RNC’s alleged failure to adequately support Republican campaigns during recent elections. Critics argue that the RNC did not provide sufficient financial assistance, contributing to the GOP’s defeats in Virginia’s House of Delegates and state Senate.
Several figures, including former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon, are publicly advocating for McDaniel’s removal. Bannon, in an interview with conservative commentator Rogan O’Handley, expressed concerns about McDaniel’s effectiveness and suggested that a change in leadership is necessary before the 2024 election.
The RNC’s fundraising performance is also under scrutiny, as it trails behind the Democratic National Committee (DNC) in overall fundraising. The DNC benefits from the advantage of fundraising alongside an incumbent president, Joe Biden.
Despite public criticism, it remains unclear how much discord exists between Trump and McDaniel. While some allies are pushing for her resignation, others argue that Trump had committed to working with her after she was reelected as RNC chair earlier this year. Trump had expressed dissatisfaction with the RNC’s actions after the 2020 election but later indicated a willingness to collaborate with McDaniel.
As discontent simmers within the GOP, the dynamics between Trump and McDaniel could have implications for the party’s future leadership and strategies.