As Donald Trump embarks on his second term as President, the Republican National Committee (RNC) is already strategizing for the 2026 midterm elections, recognizing the significance of maintaining control of both the House and Senate to further the Trump agenda. RNC Chair Michael Whatley emphasizes that while Trump’s name won’t be on the ballot, he will play a pivotal role in supporting GOP candidates, campaigning actively, and promoting the policies that resonated with voters in the 2024 election. The RNC aims to capitalize on the momentum from their recent victories, including Trump’s presidential win, the Republican takeover of the Senate, and the retention of their House majority. Whatley believes the fundamental strategies that propelled these wins will remain crucial in 2026.
A key focus for the RNC in the upcoming midterm elections will be maintaining and expanding their grassroots efforts. Whatley acknowledges the historical trend of the party in power facing challenges in midterm elections and the absence of Trump’s direct presence on the ballot. However, he is confident that Trump’s continued involvement and endorsement will energize the Republican base and drive voter turnout. The RNC intends to build upon the ground game established in the 2024 election, focusing on engaging low-propensity voters and continuing their outreach to demographic groups that have historically favored Democrats, such as Black, Hispanic, Asian American, young, and women voters. This strategy aims to replicate the significant shifts observed in the 2024 election, where these groups showed increased support for Trump compared to previous cycles.
Fundraising will also be a critical component of the RNC’s 2026 strategy. While the Harris campaign and the Democratic National Committee outraised the Trump campaign and the RNC in the 2024 cycle, Whatley expresses confidence that with Republican control of the White House, the party will be even more competitive in fundraising for the midterms. He plans to appeal to donors by highlighting the RNC’s success in securing Trump’s second term and emphasizing the need to preserve congressional majorities to advance his agenda. This message aims to galvanize financial support and ensure the party has the resources necessary to compete effectively.
Whatley defends the RNC’s ground game efforts in the 2024 general election, dismissing criticisms and highlighting the effectiveness of their new system targeting low-propensity voters. He emphasizes the importance of this demographic in midterm elections and plans to continue developing this program for 2026. Furthermore, he underscores the RNC’s focus on outreach to diverse communities, which he credits for the significant shifts in voter demographics observed in the 2024 election. By engaging with a broader range of voters, the RNC aims to build a stronger and more inclusive coalition.
The RNC’s overarching strategy for the 2026 midterm elections centers around leveraging Trump’s continued influence and building upon the successful strategies employed in the 2024 election. Maintaining control of Congress is crucial for implementing the Trump agenda, and the RNC recognizes the former president’s role as a powerful motivator for Republican voters. The party plans to maintain an aggressive ground game, focusing on low-propensity voters and engaging diverse communities. Simultaneously, the RNC aims to enhance its fundraising efforts, highlighting its successes and emphasizing the importance of supporting Trump’s policies through congressional control.
Trump’s recent request for Whatley to continue as RNC chair underscores the former president’s trust in his leadership and reinforces the RNC’s commitment to his agenda. Whatley’s background as a longtime Trump ally and his support for election integrity efforts align with the former president’s priorities. As the 2026 midterm elections approach, the RNC’s focus will be on maintaining its current momentum, leveraging Trump’s influence, and implementing a comprehensive strategy to retain control of Congress and ensure the continuation of the Trump legacy.
