Attorneys representing former President Donald Trump sent notices to three GOP organizations demanding they cease all use of Trump’s name or likeness in merchandising or fundraising materials. The cease-and-desist orders were sent to the Republican National Committee (RNC), the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) and the National Republican Senate Committee (NRSC).
Since Trump left office in January, the RNC regularly uses Trump’s image to solicit donations through emails and pamphlets. Despite the former president’s call for “tremendous unity” in his CPAC speech last Sunday, Trump seemingly wants that unity to be on his own terms.
Trump is a public figure, so the RNC and other committees do not have to comply with Trump’s order. Trump and his team may very well be testing the waters to see how loyal the RNC is to him. Trump has become increasingly outspoken against Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky) after he admitted Trump was responsible for the Capitol insurrection. Trump also named each Republican House member and Senator who voted for his impeachment during his CPAC speech last Sunday.
