Haley pointed to recent shake-ups in the Republican National Committee and Trump’s attempts to install loyalists at its helm
Presidential contender Nikki Haley is cautioning the Republican Party that it’s turning into Donald Trump’s “playpen.”
Haley said this while speaking in Grand Rapids, Michigan, during her campaign, after suffering a big loss in her home state of South Carolina.
“Look at what’s going on at the RNC. Picking a chair and director before the primary ends is a big control move by Donald Trump,” Haley warned.
Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel will officially step down from her position following the Super Tuesday primaries on March 5.
The announcement follows Trump’s recent suggestions for changes within the RNC. He recommended that Michael Whatley, the North Carolina GOP chair, replace McDaniel as chairman. Additionally, he proposed leadership roles for his daughter-in-law Lara Trump, and campaign senior adviser Chris LaCivita.
“The fact that there’s a resolution within the RNC stating ‘Donald Trump cannot utilize [the RNC] for his legal slush fund,’ and his dissatisfaction with that proposal, speaks volumes,” Haley added.
Earlier this month, Lara Trump informed reporters that if she were appointed, every cent would be dedicated to the campaign effort.
“All funds will be directed towards the primary and sole objective of the RNC – that is, securing the election of Donald J. Trump as President of the United States and safeguarding this nation,” she emphasized.
Haley told the crowd in Grand Rapids that the idea of those joining the RNC focusing solely on Donald Trump means neglecting other important races like the House, Senate, and other candidates. She expressed concern that Trump is essentially reshaping the Republican Party for his interests.
Almost 800 delegates are available on Super Tuesday, with over 150 more at stake in the subsequent two weeks. California and Texas, both states with a significant number of delegates, are among those holding contests on Super Tuesday. Additionally, Florida, Illinois, and Ohio will have winner-take-all primaries on March 19. Polls in many of these states show Trump with considerable leads over Haley.
The Trump campaign forecasted in its memo that the former president would clinch the nomination on March 19, even accounting for a “most generous model” for Haley.
“Let’s wait and see,” Haley promptly replied when questioned by US Newzs about her course of action if Trump secures the nomination next month.