J.D. Vance is set to take over the role of finance chairman for the Republican National Committee — marking the first time a sitting vice president has assumed the post.
The move ensures Mr. Vance is in the thick of things ahead of the midterms next year and furthers the notion that he is well-positioned to capture the MAGA mantle in the 2028 presidential campaign
Mr. Vance will be the face of the GOP’s fundraising efforts, letting him strengthen the party’s relationship with donors and build ties with well-heeled supporters, moves that could boost his presidential ambitions.
“Vice President Vance is not only one of our Party’s most talented messengers, he is also a thought leader who has helped remake the GOP into the party of working Americans representing the forgotten men and women of our country,” RNC Chairman Michael Whatley said in a statement Tuesday.
Mr. Vance said the party must build on Trump’s 2024 success at the ballot box.
“To enact the MAGA mandate and President Trump’s vision that voters demanded, we must keep and grow our Republican majorities in 2026,” Mr. Vance said.
Mr. Trump applauded the move, saying Mr. Vance “knows how to fight and win tough races.”
Mr. Vance has received high marks from the party faithful over his first two months as Mr. Trump’s wingman. The CPAC straw poll last month found he was the overwhelming favorite to succeed Mr. Trump as the king of the MAGA movement.
Mr. Vance also has benefited from the immense focus on Elon Musk, who has been a more frequent target of Democratic attacks.
Republicans are preparing to defend their slim majorities in the House and Senate in the 2026 midterms that traditionally serve as a referendum on the sitting president.
Meanwhile, the sitting president’s party typically loses seats in the midterms.
A strong showing for Republicans could further enhance Mr. Vance’s image.
