Lara Trump, a prominent figure in the Republican Party, has recently taken on a significant role within the GOP. In February 2024, she was endorsed by her father-in-law, former President Donald Trump, for the position of co-chair of the Republican National Committee (RNC). Following this endorsement, Lara was officially elected to the role in March 2024. Serving as the GOP’s No. 2 under new Chair Michael Whatley, Lara’s political journey and personal life have garnered much attention. Here’s everything to know about the new RNC co-chair and her relationship with her husband, Eric Trump.
Early Life and Family Background
Lara Trump, born Lara Lea Yunaska on October 12, 1982, in Wilmington, North Carolina, was raised in the nearby town of Wrightsville Beach. Her upbringing in a small beach town laid the foundation for her strong family values and work ethic. Lara’s early life was marked by a passion for animals and a love for the coastal environment.
Relationship with Eric Trump
Lara and Eric Trump first crossed paths in 2008 through mutual friends. Their initial meeting was serendipitous, with Lara being impressed by Eric’s height rather than his family name. “When I first met Eric, I did not know who his dad was,” she recalled on her podcast, The Right View. Their relationship blossomed quickly, and by July 2013, the couple was engaged.
On November 8, 2014, Lara and Eric were married at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida. The wedding was a grand affair, with Lara donning a Vera Wang ball gown for the ceremony and a corset gown for the reception. Despite breaking both wrists in a horseback riding accident two weeks before the wedding, Lara’s bridal style remained impeccable with the help of bedazzled gloves designed to cover her casts.
Career and Personal Life
Lara Trump’s career began in journalism, where she worked as a producer for the TV news program Inside Edition. However, her role evolved significantly when she joined her father-in-law’s 2016 presidential campaign as an adviser. Lara’s political involvement deepened during Donald Trump’s 2020 campaign, where she played a crucial role as a consultant and adviser. She also launched the “Real News” Facebook show, which provided updates on Donald Trump’s presidency.
In addition to her political work, Lara pursued a passion for culinary arts, graduating from the French Culinary Institute in New York and working as a pastry chef. She is also a certified personal trainer, showcasing her diverse skill set and interests.
In March 2021, Lara joined Fox News as a paid contributor, a role she held until December 2022. After Donald Trump announced his reelection campaign for 2024, Lara stepped away from the network to focus on her political endeavors and family.
Balancing Work and Motherhood
Lara and Eric Trump have two children: Eric “Luke” Trump Jr., born on September 12, 2017, and Carolina Dorothy Trump, born on August 20, 2019. Balancing her career and motherhood has been challenging, but Lara finds it empowering. In an interview with The Conservateur, she expressed her pride in being a mother and the strength it brings. “I never imagined that the old me before kids would feel as empowered in womanhood as a mom,” she said.
Political Aspirations and RNC Role
Lara Trump’s political aspirations have been evident throughout her career. In 2021, she considered running for the North Carolina Senate seat but ultimately decided against it to focus on her young children. Despite this, she remains a significant figure in the Republican Party.
In February 2024, Donald Trump endorsed Lara for the position of RNC co-chair, praising her communication skills and dedication to the MAGA movement. Lara was elected to the role in March 2024, with a focus on fundraising for the upcoming presidential election. She emphasized the need to raise “about half a billion dollars” before the November election, highlighting the financial challenges facing the party.
Future Prospects
Lara Trump’s role as RNC co-chair positions her as a key player in the Republican Party’s future. With her extensive experience in political campaigning and media, she is well-equipped to navigate the challenges ahead. Her commitment to the party’s goals and her ability to balance her professional and personal life make her a formidable force within the GOP.
As Lara Trump continues to serve in her new role, her influence and impact on the Republican Party will undoubtedly grow. Her journey from a small-town girl to a significant political figure is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and unwavering support for her family and party.
