Ronna McDaniel Steps Down as RNC Chair Amid Trump's Power Play

Ronna McDaniel has resigned as the chair of the Republican National Committee (RNC), with her departure set for March 8. McDaniel, who has led the RNC since 2017, decided to step down following a period of tension with former President Donald Trump, particularly over financial matters and party loyalty. Trump has publicly supported North Carolina GOP chair Michael Whatley as McDaniel's successor. He has also mentioned Lara Trump, his daughter-in-law, as a potential candidate for the position, which, by party rules, requires the chair and co-chair to be of opposite sexes.

The decision comes in the wake of Trump's victory in the South Carolina primary and his efforts to strengthen his influence within the party during a crucial presidential primary season. The timing of McDaniel's resignation is intended to facilitate a smooth transition in leadership after Super Tuesday.

As the RNC prepares to elect a new chair, Chris LaCivita, a senior Trump campaign adviser, is expected to be appointed as chief operating officer. Meanwhile, the political landscape is witnessing other strategic moves, such as a conservative Super PAC, backed by the Koch brothers, opting not to fund Nikki Haley's presidential campaign. Concurrently, President Joe Biden is set to meet with congressional leaders to address the looming threat of a government shutdown.