Michael Whatley Steps Down as RNC Chair to Run for North Carolina Senate

Honoring Departed Members and RNC Meeting

• 😔 The RNC summer meeting in Atlanta began by honoring 168 members lost during the year, including Jeannie Lucky, Clark Reed, Joanne Davidson, Jean Ward, and Glenn McCall, with prayers for their families.
• 🙏 Gratitude was expressed to all RNC members for their presence and work, acknowledging the challenging Atlanta heat and the opportunity to watch baseball.

Achievements Under President Trump

• 🚀 The speaker celebrated President Donald J. Trump's reelection, describing it as the "greatest political comeback in American history" with an electoral college landslide and a mandate to "make America great again."
• 📈 Seven months into Trump's second term, the economy is highlighted as stronger, inflation down, borders secure, streets safer, and international respect regained, attributing this to "peace through strength."
• 🏛️ Republicans in the House and Senate are credited with delivering on the American people's vote, leading to Republican majorities due to trust in their ability to govern.

Transition and Senate Candidacy

• 📞 Following a call from President Trump, Michael Whatley announced his resignation as RNC Chair to run for the U.S. Senate in North Carolina, with Trump's full endorsement.
• 🇺🇸 This decision is framed as answering a call to provide President Trump with an ally and North Carolina with a strong conservative voice in the Senate.
• 💰 The economic contrast is drawn between 11% inflation under Biden and lower prices, job creation, and wage increases under Trump.

Legislative Achievements and Democratic Opposition

• 📜 The "One Big Beautiful Bill" is presented as the most transformative legislation in U.S. history, delivering the largest tax cut, increasing take-home pay, securing the border, and supporting military personnel.
• ❌ Every single Democrat in Congress and the Senate is stated to have voted against this bill, its tax cuts, border security, support for the military, and energy/national security provisions.
• 🗳️ Democrats are accused of doubling down on failed policies, running on higher taxes, open borders, and radical issues, leading to plummeting registration numbers while Republican numbers rise.

RNC's Strength and Future Leadership

• 📊 The RNC is reported to be in a stronger position after 16 months, with involvement in over 90 election integrity lawsuits and significant financial resources ($80 million cash on hand).
• 🤝 Joe Gruters is endorsed by President Trump to be the next RNC Chairman, praised for transforming Florida into a red state and building get-out-the-vote programs.
• 💰 Jennifer Rich is endorsed as the new RNC Treasurer, recognized for her service on the budget committee and steadfast support of President Trump.

Personal Thanks and Closing Remarks

• ❤️ Whatley expressed deep appreciation for the RNC members and staff, highlighting the people as the most loved aspect of his role.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Personal thanks were extended to his wife, Suzanne, and three children: Michael, George, and Mary Kate.
• 🌟 The speech concluded with immense pride in accomplishments, acknowledging the challenging road ahead but expressing confidence in the team, the movement, and President Trump's leadership to "make America great again."
• ✅ Whatley requested unanimous consent to accept his resignation as RNC Chairman upon the election of his successor.