According to former Republican Party chair Ronna McDaniel, US vice president JD Vance has made a significant move that positions him as the frontrunner to be the party’s next presidential candidate. McDaniel expressed her belief on the Sky News Trump 100 podcast that Vance’s recent appointment as finance chair of the Republican National Committee (RNC) was a strategic and powerful move in the political landscape.
Being the first sitting vice president to take on the role of finance chair, McDaniel emphasized Vance’s understanding of the political process and his ambitions for the future. She highlighted the importance of Vance’s new position in shaping the rules governing the 2028 primary process and his access to key party members and investors leading up to the next presidential election.
Ronna McDaniel. File pic: AP
Previous statements from Donald Trump downplaying Vance’s chances for the presidential nomination contrast with McDaniel’s assessment. While Trump commended Vance’s capabilities, he indicated that it was too early to determine the 2028 nominee. Trump himself has hinted at a potential third term, despite constitutional limitations.
McDaniel, who has personal experience working with Vance, shared her admiration for his intelligence and ability to connect with various stakeholders. She recalled their interactions during Vance’s Senate campaign in Ohio and praised his willingness to engage with voters and business leaders.
Read more from Sky News:
Trump ‘p***** off’ with Putin over Zelenskyy comments
Starmer and Trump agree to continue UK-US deal talks
Follow Trump 100 on your podcast app 