SUMMARY
Senator John Thune has won a closely contested race to become the new Senate GOP leader, succeeding Mitch McConnell after nearly 20 years. The decision came after a tense internal election, held behind closed doors. Thune, currently the GOP whip, defeated Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) in a second-ballot vote, following Trump loyalist Senator Rick Scott’s elimination in the first round. Thune ultimately secured at least 27 votes from the 53-member Republican conference. Thune will assume the role in January, when Republicans are set to control the Senate, House, and presidency. Thune’s leadership comes as Republicans plan a bold legislative agenda, including tax cuts, immigration reform, and energy policy, while also aiming for a budget reconciliation package, which would allow passing critical bills without Democratic support. Thune has previously been particularly critical of President Trump, suggesting there could be friction in the future between the branches of government.
