Gaetz: McCarthy would make ‘terrific’ RNC chair because of the role’s lack of responsibilities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz reacted to a report that Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel would step down by flippantly endorsing Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., for the role.

“I fully endorse Kevin McCarthy for RNC Chair,” Gaetz said in a post that has gone viral and sparked controversy among online conservative circles. “Kevin is well organized and a very high-revenue fundraiser. He will also be well-liked by the RNC Committee.”

The Republican congressman, who led the charge to oust McCarthy from the speakership role last year, then clarified that McCarthy would be well-suited because “the RNC Chair doesn’t make any policy decisions, set any agenda, or negotiate against Democrats, ever.”

“Kevin would be terrific,” Gaetz said.

The New York Times reported Tuesday evening that McDaniel “plans to step down” and that former President Donald Trump will likely back Michael Whatley for her position, who is the current chair of the Republican Party of North Carolina.

Ms. McDaniel has faced months of pressure, a campaign from Trump-allied forces to unseat her and growing dissatisfaction and anxiety in the Trump camp about the strained finances of the R.N.C. as the general election cycle begins early.

New York Times

Steve Cortes, formerly a supporter of Gov. Ron DeSantis for president and now supportive of Trump, called McCarthy a “master fundraiser” who “would be great at this role.”

DeSantis had called for change at the RNC before the 2023 election for the chair position, where McDaniel emerged victorious.

“I think we need a change,” DeSantis said, going on to praise Harmeet Dhillon for the position.

DeSantis called for more involvement from “grassroots Republicans” to bolster volunteer hours and donations.

The South Carolina GOP primary is on Feb. 24.