Joe Gruters was elected RNC chair on August 22 during the committee’s summer meeting in Atlanta. The vote was conducted by voice and passed without opposition, following President Trump’s endorsement earlier this month. Gruters replaces Michael Whatley, who stepped down to run for U.S. Senate in North Carolina.
Gruters, a longtime Trump ally, previously served as RNC treasurer and chairman of the Republican Party of Florida. His political relationship with President Trump dates back to 2012, when he invited Trump to speak at a Florida GOP event and awarded him “Statesman of the Year.” Gruters also co-chaired Trump’s Florida campaign in 2016 and played a key role in expanding Republican voter registration across the state.
Speaking to RNC members, Gruters promised to “expand our Republican majority” and emphasized that the party must “ride the president all the way to victory.” His goals include strengthening grassroots operations, challenging unfavorable voting laws in court, and ensuring conservative victories in 2026 and beyond.
Under his leadership, the RNC will control approximately $84 million in cash reserves, providing the resources needed for nationwide campaign operations and legal action. Gruters praised Florida’s election laws, calling them the “gold standard,” and committed to replicating that model where possible. He declined to comment on redistricting policy due to his role as both a state senator and RNC chair.
Gruters’ election marks another step in President Trump’s broader strategy to consolidate loyal leadership within the GOP. His appointment reflects continued momentum among conservative activists and donors, with Florida’s Republican leadership increasingly dominating national party direction.
