The Republican National Committee (RNC) is facing proposals to prevent the committee from using funds to pay for former President Donald Trump's legal fees and to ensure neutrality in the GOP primary race. The resolutions were put forward by Henry Barbour, an RNC member from Mississippi. This development comes after Trump appointed Michael Whatley and Lara Trump as co-chairs of the committee. The proposed resolutions aim to address the issue of using RNC funds to cover Trump's legal bills, which reportedly amount to over $500 million. The Trump campaign has expressed opposition to these resolutions, arguing that the primary responsibility of the RNC is to defeat President Joe Biden and regain control of the White House [78607ba6].
This move by Barbour highlights the ongoing tension within the Republican Party over Trump's influence and financial burden on the RNC. The resolutions seek to prevent the committee from being further entangled in Trump's legal battles and to maintain a level playing field in the GOP primary race. The RNC's role in supporting Trump's legal defense has been a subject of controversy, with critics arguing that it diverts resources away from other party activities and candidates. By proposing these resolutions, Barbour aims to address these concerns and ensure that the RNC remains focused on its core mission [78607ba6].
In a recent development, a joint fundraising committee established between the Trump campaign and the RNC, called the Trump 47 Committee, has been allowed to raise money for Trump's legal bills and provide a cash infusion for the RNC. The committee can raise up to $814,600, with the funds being distributed to the Trump campaign, Save America political action committee, the RNC, and at least 39 state committees. The joint fundraising agreement aims to address the RNC's fundraising deficit compared to the Democratic National Committee. However, concerns have been raised that some donors may be hesitant to contribute if their funds are directed towards Trump's legal expenses. The Trump 47 Committee donor form outlines the allocation of each dollar, with a portion going to the Trump campaign accounts, Save America, and the RNC, while the remaining funds are directed to local Republican parties in 39 states. It is important to note that the committee will not pay any of Trump's legal bills, according to a top adviser. The Save America political action committee has faced financial challenges, spending more money than it has taken in, including significant payments to lawyers. Trump has used the charges against him as a rallying cry to energize his supporters, accusing Democrats and President Biden of weaponizing the powers of the Justice Department against him [40f299c2].