"Trump-Backed Leaders Take Control of RNC as McDaniel Steps Down"

The Republican National Committee has unanimously elected Michael Whatley as its chair and Lara Trump as co-chair, both of whom were endorsed by former President Donald Trump, tightening his grip on the party's machinery ahead of the general election. This move comes after Ronna McDaniel, the committee's leader since 2017, privately informed Trump of her intention to step down, facing pressure over lackluster fundraising and criticism of the party's performance. Trump's allies have criticized McDaniel for being insufficiently supportive of the former president, and the new leaders' elevation is part of Trump's effort to merge the R.N.C. with his campaign, allowing for larger fundraising efforts and tapping into the existing party apparatus.