Columbia, South Carolina – In a move that may signal a shift within the Republican National Committee, a proposed resolution by prominent member Henry Barbour suggests distancing the national party from former President Donald Trump until he secures enough delegates to become the presumptive nominee. The resolution aims to maintain neutrality during the presidential primaries and refrain from additional staff from any active campaigns until a nominee amasses 1,215 delegates.
While Trump has been victorious in all Republican primaries and caucuses thus far, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley remains steadfast in her intention to continue her campaign. Meanwhile, Trump has recommended his current campaign co-manager, Chris LaCivita, to assume the role of RNC chief operating officer, a move that could be slowed down if Barbour’s resolution gains approval.
Unlike the Biden campaign and the DNC, the Trump campaign and the RNC have not established a joint fundraising committee, potentially hindering coordinated efforts to advance shared financial interests. The Trump campaign has expressed disapproval of Barbour’s proposal, deeming it a delay tactic that could benefit Joe Biden.
Barbour also introduced another resolution that would prevent the RNC from covering Trump’s legal expenses, with a focus instead on activities directly related to the upcoming election cycle. These resolutions are set to be discussed at the RNC’s upcoming meeting in Houston, where potential votes may also be cast for new party leadership.
Ronna McDaniel’s resignation as chairwoman remains uncertain, despite Trump’s endorsement of Michael Whatley to replace her. However, if McDaniel steps down, Whatley may face competition from current RNC co-chair Drew McKissick for the top party position. McKissick’s outreach to RNC members indicates a possible bid for the chairmanship, highlighting the ongoing jockeying for leadership within the RNC.
The RNC’s meeting in Houston on March 7 and 8 holds the promise of significant developments in shaping the party’s future direction, with potential outcomes hinging on the dynamics between key figures like Trump, McDaniel, Whatley, and McKissick. As the Republican Party navigates internal debates and power struggles, the decisions made at the upcoming meeting could have far-reaching implications for the party’s unity and strategic direction moving forward.