Former President Donald Trump will be attending the Republican National Committee’s spring retreat in Florida this weekend, where he will participate in a fundraiser luncheon at his Mar-a-Lago club. The event will serve as an opportunity for Trump to connect with his wealthy donors and potential vice presidential contenders as he works to catch up to the Biden campaign’s fundraising efforts. The retreat also includes other high-profile party leaders and Republican politicians on Trump’s VP shortlist, such as Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, and South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott.
In addition to the VP contenders, notable guests at the retreat include Florida Sen. Rick Scott, Tennessee Sen. Marsha Blackburn, and Indiana Rep. Jim Banks. South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, who has been dealing with controversy surrounding a book excerpt where she detailed shooting and killing her dog, will also be in attendance. It remains unclear if Trump will have one-on-one meetings with potential VP picks during the weekend, but the retreat provides an opportunity for them to interact with Trump and possibly influence his decision.
Despite ongoing speculation about his VP pick, Trump is not expected to announce his running mate anytime soon. His team is still in the process of vetting candidates, with a decision expected to be made closer to the Republican National Convention in July. Trump mentioned in an interview that the decision will be made closer to the Wisconsin primaries, indicating that it is still early in the selection process. Trump’s weekend plans also include attending the Miami Grand Prix, where he was initially scheduled to attend a fundraiser but was later sent a cease-and-desist letter by the event organizers.
House Speaker Mike Johnson’s attendance at the RNC retreat is noteworthy given the ongoing internal feuding within the party regarding his position. Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has announced plans to force a vote on Johnson’s removal when members return to the Capitol, prompting concerns from Trump and his inner circle about the party’s unity. Trump has tapped RNC chairman Michael Whatley to convey to House Republicans his desire for a united party and to urge Greene to end the drama. Johnson has previously leveraged his relationship with Trump to demonstrate solidarity amid threats to his speakership, including arranging a news conference with Trump at Mar-a-Lago last month.
Overall, the RNC retreat in Florida provides a platform for Trump to engage with his supporters, potential VP contenders, and party leaders as he navigates the upcoming election cycle. The event showcases the ongoing tensions within the Republican Party, as internal disputes threaten to overshadow efforts to unify behind Trump. Trump’s decision on a running mate is still pending, with a formal announcement expected closer to the party’s convention. The retreat serves as a critical opportunity for Trump and his team to strategize for the upcoming elections and rally support within the GOP.
