Trump-Backed Leaders Take Helm at RNC After McDaniel Exits

Michael Whatley and Lara Trump are taking the reins of the national party with the intention of invigorating its effort to reelect Trump.

Michael Whatley speaks at the Republican National Committee (RNC) Spring meeting in Houston, Texas, on March 8, 2024. Cécile Clocheret/AFP via Getty Images

HOUSTON—The Republican National Committee (RNC) has elected new leadership endorsed by former President Donald Trump after Ronna McDaniel, one of the group’s longest-serving chairs, stepped down on March 8.

Michael Whatley, chair of the North Carolina Republican Party whom President Trump endorsed last month to lead the RNC, was elected by a voice vote to succeed Ms. McDaniel at the committee’s spring meeting in Houston, Texas. He ran unopposed.