Party Feud Erupts Ahead of RNC Meeting in Las Vegas

In a prelude to the upcoming Republican National Committee (RNC) meeting in Las Vegas, GOP county chairs and local activists gathered to express dissatisfaction with the party’s preparations for the 2024 election. Hosted by the conservative group Turning Point Action, the event featured vocal criticism of RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel, with many grassroots activists suggesting a loss of trust in her leadership.

Concerns were raised about the party’s financial state, its challenges in matching Democratic organizing efforts, and McDaniel’s four-term leadership. Critics argued that despite the RNC’s efforts to defend its record with facts and figures, the grassroots perceives these explanations as excuses.

Key points from the gathering include:

1. Calls for Change: Some attendees voiced dissatisfaction with the RNC’s leadership structure, strategic plans, and victory programs, especially in light of losing 22 out of 25 statewide races in Wisconsin over the past dozen years.
2. Turning Point Action’s Critique: Turning Point Action, led by conservative activist Charlie Kirk, has been a persistent critic of the RNC. Kirk accused the RNC of being “losers” and failing in the 2018, 2020, and 2022 elections. He announced plans to hire 300 new workers in Arizona for get-out-the-vote efforts.
3. RNC’s Response: In response to Turning Point’s criticisms, the RNC highlighted its 73 training sessions for over 2,000 local party activists, the “Bank Your Vote” initiative for early and absentee GOP voting, staff hires in 15 battleground states, and the Election Integrity Department filing lawsuits nationwide.
4. Local Leaders’ Concerns: Local GOP leaders who attended the Turning Point gathering accused the RNC of lacking a clear plan to guide them. Some expressed worries about their counties turning blue without effective strategies from the RNC.
5. Financial Questions: Criticism has emerged regarding the RNC’s recent line of credit and historically low cash levels. Some members are concerned about the effectiveness of the RNC’s financial management under McDaniel.
6. Internal Debate: While McDaniel is considered safe in her role until after the November election, there are discussions within the RNC about potential calls for her resignation. Some members are evaluating the RNC’s actual efforts to ensure Republican victories.
7. Sharp Divisions: The Turning Point event indicated a deep divide within the GOP, with grassroots activists seeking a more assertive and effective approach to politics. The gathering included presentations by voter fraud investigators associated with MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, highlighting sharp-knifed and conspiratorial politics.
8. Commitment to Change: The grassroots activists at the event expressed a commitment to fighting for a change in party leadership, reflecting a desire for a more dynamic and successful approach.

As the RNC meeting approaches, tensions within the GOP seem to be intensifying, with divisions on strategy, leadership, and the party’s overall direction.