Trump backs Joe Gruters of Florida as next RNC chair

President Trump on Thursday threw his support behind Florida state Sen. Joe Gruters (R) to serve as the next head of the Republican National Committee (RNC) with current chairman Michael Whatley set to announce a Senate bid in the coming days.

Trump in a Truth Social post endorsed Whatley to run for Senate in North Carolina to replace Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), who will not seek reelection. A source familiar with the matter confirmed to The Hill earlier Thursday that Whatley was expected to run for the seat, with Trump's blessing.

"Mike would make an unbelievable Senator from North Carolina," Trump said of Whatley, who previously led the North Carolina GOP. "He is fantastic at everything he does, and he was certainly great at the RNC where, in the Presidential Election, we won every Swing State, the Popular Vote, and the Electoral College by a landslide!"

"Fortunately, I have somebody who will do a wonderful job as the Chairman of the RNC," Trump added. "His name is, Joe Gruters, and he will have my Complete and Total Endorsement. So, should Michael Whatley run for the Senate, please let this notification represent my Complete and Total Endorsement."

Gruters is a Trump ally who has served in the Florida Senate since 2018 and as RNC treasurer since earlier this year. Gruters has clashed with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R), who was a bitter rival of Trump during the 2024 presidential primary.

Gruters would need to be elected by RNC members to lead the organization, but would likely face no competition with Trump's backing.