Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is currently in the United States for a visit with former President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago, rather than at the invitation of the White House. This meeting comes amidst the growing influence of Trump within the Republican Party, as evidenced by recent developments at the Republican National Committee (RNC).
During the RNC's spring meeting, a significant shift towards Trump's allies was observed. Ronna McDaniel, the chairwoman, formally resigned from her position, paving the way for Donald Trump's preferred candidates to assume leadership roles. Michael Watley, the North Carolina Republican Party chairman, was swiftly elected as the new RNC chairman, while Lara Trump, Trump's daughter-in-law, was elected as the party's co-chair without facing any opposition.
McDaniel expressed her decision to step aside in favor of supporting the nominee and the RNC's plans to secure victory in the upcoming elections. She emphasized the importance of winning back the White House and acknowledged Trump's right to shape the RNC's leadership team. Lara Trump echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the shared goal of winning the election in November.
Additionally, Trump plans to appoint two of his top campaign advisers, Chris LaCivita and James Blair, to key roles within the RNC. LaCivita is expected to serve as the chief operating officer and financial officer, while Blair will lead the political strategy, alongside maintaining their positions within the campaign.
Trump's advisers have described the changes at the RNC as more than a typical overhaul, characterizing it as a takeover aimed at aligning the campaign and the committee closely. The focus will include advancing Trump's claims of election fraud and enhancing fundraising efforts, with a strategic emphasis on operating as a unified entity.