Steve Wynn Steps Down as RNC Finance Chair
Last Saturday, the gambling king‑pin, Steve Wynn, bowed out from his role as the Republican National Committee’s finance chief. The resignation followed a Wall Street Journal story accusing him of making women in his organization uncomfortable with unwanted advances.
The Fallout
- RNC Chair Ronna Romney McDaniel announced the change: “Today I accepted Steve Wynn’s resignation as RNC finance chair.”
- Wynn, defending himself, called the allegations “preposterous” and blamed his ex‑wife for allegedly engineering the mudslap to sway their divorce battle.
- In a pow‑wow statement, he said he was stepping down to keep the political machine on track. He also thanked President Donald Trump for the appointment.
- Even a night earlier, his supporters were vocal about him staying in the chair and fighting the charges.
Why People Are Frowning
These accusations join a growing list of powerful figures who’re being held to account for behavior that was never subject to public scrutiny before.
Wynn’s Casino Legacy
At 76, Wynn’s empire includes Wynn Resorts, along with a past rivalry with Trump. After flipping his stance to outright support Trump in 2016—and pumping money into Republican causes—he landed the finance chair spot once Trump hit the White House.
Potential Replacement
Sources hint at U.S. Rep. Francis Rooney of Florida stepping into the role, but the RNC hasn’t made a formal announcement yet.
The Company’s Response
Wynn’s own board convened an independent panel to dig into the claims, chaired by Patricia Mulroy, a former Nevada Gaming Commission member.
Wynn’s Denial
He claimed, bluntly: “The idea that I ever assaulted any woman is preposterous.” He also asserted that his ex‑wife, Elaine Wynn, is the real culprit behind the allegations, citing their ongoing divorce litigation.
Context: #MeToo and the Push for Accountability
Following the Harvey Weinstein scandal, a wave of calls for justice has emerged. Weinstein, once a staple of Democratic donors, saw his funding get called back. After the Journal’s allegations, Democrats pressured Republicans to return Wynn’s contributions.
Bottom Line
Wynn’s departure underscores the wealth and influence no longer immune to the scrutiny of the #MeToo movement. As the dust settles, the Republican Party looks to keep its fundraising ship sailing smoothly—without any storm in the harbor.
