President Donald Trump endorsed Sen. Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota) to chair the Republican National Committee on Thursday. The move follows the president's endorsement of current RNC chair Michael Whatley for Senate in North Carolina.
Sen. Gruters is currently the Treasurer of the RNC. He previously served as chair of the Florida Republican Party from 2019 to 2023.
"Florida leads the way! President @realDonaldTrump just gave his Complete and Total Endorsement to @JoeGruters for RNC Chairman," the Florida GOP said. "As our former Chairman, we know he has what it takes to bring the @GOP to new heights. He’s proven, tested, and ready to lead!"
President Donald Trump also endorsed Gruters to be Florida's chief financial officer (CFO). A tap as chair of the RNC could mean Gruters relinquishes that candidacy.
Last week, Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed Sen. Blaise Ingoglia (R-Spring Hill) over Gruters as CFO. While both are friends, the governor dismissed Gruters as ever having a chance for the role, saying an undead George Washington couldn't even convince him.
While not loved by DeSantis, Florida Congressman Jimmy Patronis praised Gruters on the selection.
"What a huge moment for the RNC to get a leader like Senator @JoeGruters," Patronis said. "He knows how we win in Florida. He’s fiercely loyal to President Trump and he will settle for nothing short of landslide victory in the 2026 midterms."
Gruters has been a member of the Florida Senate since 2018. He also served in the Florida House of Representatives from 2016 to 2018.
Florida Congressman Randy Fine also congratulated Gruters on his selection.
"I couldn't be prouder of my friend @Joegruters being named by @realdonaldtrump the next Chairman of the @GOP," Fine said. "Joe was the first major figure in Florida to get behind Trump in 2016 -- and had the courage to stand up and do the same in 2024. Joe, you are going to do great!!!"
