The Republican National Committee elected Trump ally and Florida state Sen. Joe Gruters to serve as next chair of the party.
He’s succeeding Michael Watley, who’s running for senator of North Carolina.
Mr. Gruters previously served as treasurer for the RNC.
“Today’s election marks an important moment of unity for the Republican National Committee. We are grateful to the members of the RNC for their tireless work in service of our Party,” Mr. Whatley and Mr. Gruters said in a joint statement Friday. “Together, we’re fighting for election integrity and supporting President Trump’s America First agenda.”
They added, “The RNC is united behind President Trump and the MAGA movement, and together we will expand our majorities and deliver victory for the American people in 2026.”
President Trump endorsed Mr. Gruters this month, calling him a “MAGA warrior.”
“As State Senator and Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida, Joe helped us deliver massive and historic Victories across the State, including my three BIG WINS in 2016, 2020, and 2024! As RNC Treasurer, Joe has been a Fierce Advocate for our Movement, and fought tirelessly to ensure a highly functioning, fiscally responsible, and financially successful RNC. He will be a wonderful Chairman!” he wrote on Truth Social.
The Democratic National Committee was quick to slam the election results.
“Incoming RNC Chair Joe Gruters is just who Donald Trump would want for the position: a parrot for his own extremist agenda. Gruters is bringing his worst ideas from Florida to the national stage — from ripping away health care to banning abortion — along with his wacky and dangerous conspiracy theories,” Deputy Rapid Response Director Jaelin O’Halloran said in a statement.
“With a past riddled with sexual assault allegations and as the architect of Florida’s six-week abortion ban, Gruters and Trump will have a lot to bond over while they turn the Republican Party into even more of a personal propaganda machine for Trump.”
