Overview of the RNC Winter Meeting 2025
The Republican National Committee held its Winter Meeting in Washington, D.C., from January 15 to 17, 2025. This event is essential as it signifies a critical time for leadership elections within the party and discussions on strategies for the upcoming election cycle. The Meetings are held every two years to elect key positions and establish the agenda for the party’s future initiatives. They are essential for the GOP because they highlight the importance of leadership, unity, and strategic planning.
Leadership Elections and Key Announcements
During the 2025 Winter Meeting, Chairman Michael Whatley was unanimously reelected to lead the party. This reaffirmation of leadership is significant, reflecting ongoing support and strategic alignment within the party.
"I am honored to have been reelected as Chairman of the Republican National Committee. After a successful cycle in which we helped send President Trump back to the White House, flip the Senate, and maintain a Republican majority in the House, we will now launch an aggressive and comprehensive effort to win the 2026 midterm elections. The RNC will focus solely on raising the money we need to win, getting out the vote, and protecting the ballot to support and advance President Trump’s America-First Agenda.” – RNC Chairman Michael Whatley
KC Crosby, National Committeewoman from Kentucky, was unanimously elected as Co-Chair of the RNC.
“I am proud to step into the role of RNC Co-Chair and excited for the opportunity to continue working alongside Chairman Michael Whatley. The RNC will put the grassroots first and work hand-in-hand with allied conservative groups to advance President Trump’s bold agenda. From getting out the vote to protecting elections, we will fight tirelessly to help Make America Great Again!” – RNC Co-Chair KC Crosby
Joe Gruters, Florida State Chairman, was elected Treasurer by unanimous vote, and Vickie Drummond, National Committeewoman from Alabama, was unanimously elected RNC Secretary.
Representation and Structure
Each state has equal representation at the RNC, with three votes per state cast by the State Chairman, National Committeeman, and National Committeewoman. This structure ensures that all voices are heard and considered during important voting moments, such as leadership and policy decisions. Ried Holien, National Committeeman, and Heidi Engelhart, National Committeewoman, attended the meetings representing South Dakota. State Chairman John Wiik did not participate but designated Dan Lederman as his proxy. Proxy votes are allowed if any elected member cannot participate, ensuring continuity in representation.
Regions and Committees
The RNC is divided into four regions: Southern, Northeastern, Midwestern, and Western. South Dakota belongs to the Midwestern Region. The meetings also include various elections within regions for positions such as Vice Chairman, Executive Committee member, Resolution Committee member, and Budget Committee member. Each region also elects a secretary and treasurer.
Vice Chair of the Midwest Region:
Stephen Scheffler, Iowa National Committeeman
Tamara Scott, Iowa National Committeewoman
Executive Board:
Rob Steele, Michigan National Committeeman
Anne Hathaway, Indiana National Committeewoman
Budget Committee:
Jim Dickie, Ohio National Committeeman
Jayne Timken, Ohio National Committeewoman
Resolution Committee:
David Lightner, Missouri National Committeeman
Heidi Engelhart, South Dakota National Committeewoman
Midwest Secretary
Pam Travis, Wisconsin National Committeewoman
Midwest Region Treasure
Lori Hinz, North Dakota National Committeewoman
Additionally, temporary committees convened during these meetings, focusing on areas such as faith engagement, grassroots advisory committee, and election integrity. These committees play a significant role in shaping future policies and ensuring that the RNC addresses crucial issues that resonate with voters.
Strategic Focus for the Future
Looking ahead, Chairman Whatley has emphasized that the focus will be on consolidating the gains achieved in the previous election, while efforts will concentrate on securing Republican victories in the midterm elections to enhance the Republican majority in both the U.S. House and Senate as we collaborate with President Trump and Make America Great Again.