Michael Whatley agrees to stay as RNC Chair at Trump's request
- Michael Whatley accepted Donald Trump’s request to continue as RNC Chair.
- Under Whatley's leadership, the GOP successfully reclaimed the White House and Senate in the November elections.
- Whatley's ongoing leadership aims to support election integrity and prepare for future elections.
In the United States, Michael Whatley has accepted the request of President-elect Donald Trump to continue as Chairman of the Republican National Committee (RNC). Under Whatley’s leadership, the Republican Party achieved significant electoral successes in the November 5 elections, reclaiming the White House, securing control of the Senate, and maintaining House representation. Whatley emphasized the importance of getting out the vote, protecting election integrity, and raising funds for future Republican candidates, indicating that these priorities will remain central as the RNC moves forward. Whatley previously served as the chair of the North Carolina GOP from 2019 to 2024, during which he was noted for maintaining both Senate seats for the party while also securing supermajorities in the North Carolina state legislature. Despite these successes, the GOP faced challenges, including losing the 2020 gubernatorial election to Democrat Roy Cooper, even as Trump won the state narrowly. Whatley’s experience includes involvement in the 2000 presidential recount, where he helped George Bush narrowly defeat Al Gore. With the 2026 midterm elections on the horizon, Whatley outlines the ongoing objectives of the RNC, which include continuous support for Trump's Cabinet nominees and efforts to uphold election integrity across America. His acknowledgment of Trump’s endorsement reflects the close partnership between party leadership and the President-elect, as they navigate upcoming political battles and strategize to fortify the Republican agenda both in local and national contexts. Overall, Whatley is poised to lead the RNC as it prepares for upcoming elections while maintaining the party's focus on voter mobilization and election security. His leadership will be critical as the GOP aims to replicate its recent successes on the electoral front and deal with the complexities of modern American politics, which increasingly demand strategic, responsive, and resilient party organization.