Republican National Committee plans to consider declaring Trump the ”presumptive 2024 nominee”

As the Republican Party gears up for the 2024 presidential election, a draft resolution obtained by The Associated Press suggests a move by the Republican National Committee (RNC) to declare former President Donald Trump as the “presumptive nominee” for the party. This proposal, if approved, would have significant implications for the GOP’s electoral strategy, especially as former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley continues her bid for the nomination.

Key Points:

1. Trump’s Presumptive Nomination: The draft resolution obtained by The Associated Press outlines a move to declare Donald Trump as the “presumptive 2024 nominee for the office of President of the United States.” The resolution aims to transition the party into “full general election mode” under the banner of “Team Trump 2024.” This move would further solidify Trump’s influence over the Republican Party.
2. RNC Chair’s Approval: RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel has already signaled her approval of the resolution. Following Nikki Haley’s second-place finish to Trump in New Hampshire, McDaniel acknowledged Haley’s strong campaign but emphasized the need for Republicans to unite around the eventual nominee, indicating Trump’s inevitability.
3. Winter Meeting Discussion: The news of the resolution comes ahead of the RNC’s winter meeting in Las Vegas, where officials are expected to discuss the proposal. The gathering presents an opportunity for party leaders to deliberate on the direction of the GOP and its alignment with Trump’s influence.
4. Criticism and Skepticism: Some Republican figures, such as New Jersey Republican National Committeeman Bill Palatucci, have criticized the resolution as “silly.” Palatucci argues that it could be perceived as insulting to primary voters who engage in the democratic process every four years. Despite the criticism, there are no party rules preventing such a move by the RNC.
5. Haley’s Determination: Nikki Haley, despite trailing in the polls, remains determined to challenge Trump in South Carolina, where she served as governor. She emphasizes the importance of the state in the primary process and asserts that the race is far from over. The Republican leadership, however, expresses skepticism about Haley’s viability as a nominee.
6. Trump’s Response: Trump, while appreciating the notion of being declared the “presumptive nominee,” suggested via Truth Social that, for the sake of party unity, the RNC should not proceed with the plan. He proposed adhering to the traditional process and letting the voters decide through the ballot box.

The potential declaration of Donald Trump as the “presumptive nominee” by the RNC adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing Republican primary race. As party officials convene in Las Vegas, the resolution’s discussion will likely reflect internal debates on the GOP’s future direction and the extent of Trump’s influence. While Haley continues her campaign, the party faces crucial decisions that will shape its electoral strategy in the lead-up to the 2024 general election.