A Republican National Committee (RNC) member, Henry Barbour of Mississippi, has proposed resolutions aiming to halt the RNC’s funding of former President Donald Trump’s legal expenses.
Barbour contends that the RNC’s primary role is to secure electoral victories, not foot the legal bills of individual candidates. He asserts that Trump should finance his own legal battles independently.
To advance the resolutions, Barbour needs two cosponsors from at least 10 states by Tuesday. If successful, the resolutions would proceed to a vote by the RNC’s 168 committee members in March, requiring a simple majority for passage. Barbour anticipates opposition but remains steadfast in his efforts.
Trump, facing four criminal trials and hefty civil judgments, has relied heavily on legal support. His super PAC reported significant expenditures, exceeding $47 million, on legal fees in 2023.
Moreover, Trump aims to solidify his position as the Republican presidential nominee, pushing for greater influence within the RNC by nominating his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, as co-chair.
The resolutions have stirred debate within the Republican Party, with supporters of Trump’s candidacy opposing the measures. Proponents argue that Trump’s legal challenges should not burden the RNC’s resources, emphasizing the party’s broader electoral objectives. Despite the resistance, Barbour remains resolute in his stance.
