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McConnell’s Replacement Finally Selected

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Here’s what Americans need to know.

In January, Senate Minority Whip John Thune of South Dakota will take on the role of Senate Republican Leader, stepping into a new leadership position for the GOP in the 119th Congress. Thune will succeed Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell, who has served as the longest-standing Republican leader in Senate history.

“I am deeply honored to earn the support of my colleagues to lead the Senate,” Thune said in a statement after securing the leadership post. “Our team is united behind President Trump’s agenda, and I look forward to working with all of my colleagues to advance the conservative priorities that the American people are counting on.”

The leadership election took place in a series of secret ballots, with no clear winner in the first round. Senator Rick Scott of Florida, who had been a contender, was eliminated after receiving the fewest votes. The second round saw Thune triumph over Texas Senator John Cornyn by a margin of 29 votes to 24. Thune’s victory marks a key moment for the GOP as they prepare to take control of the Senate in January.

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Thune’s leadership team will include several prominent Republicans, such as Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming as assistant majority leader, Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas as Republican conference chair, and Senator Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia as Republican Policy Committee chair. Additionally, Senator James Lankford of Oklahoma will serve as Republican conference vice chair, and Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina will chair the National Republican Senatorial Committee.

While Senator Scott had strong backing from figures like Senators Ted Cruz, Rand Paul, and Marco Rubio, it was Thune who ultimately secured the leadership position. Thune’s win was bolstered by endorsements from Senators Markwayne Mullin, Mike Rounds, and Kevin Cramer, along with support from National Republican Senatorial Committee Chairman Steve Daines.

As the GOP prepares to take the reins in the Senate, Thune and his leadership team are poised to challenge the Biden administration’s policies and advance conservative principles in the coming years. The new Senate leadership is united behind President Trump’s agenda, and their focus will be on delivering results for the American people.