John Thune Elected as New Republican Senate Leader
Senate Republicans have elected Senator John Thune of South Dakota as their new leader, following a secret ballot held on Wednesday. The 63-year-old Thune won the leadership race, defeating Florida Senator Rick Scott, who had strong support from many of Donald Trump’s allies, and Texas Senator John Cornyn. Scott was eliminated in the first round of voting.
In his victory statement, Thune expressed his gratitude, stating he was “extremely honored” and stood “united behind President Trump’s agenda.” His election comes after the Republican Party secured a 53-47 majority in the Senate, flipping control of the chamber as Trump also won his return to the White House.
Thune will take over from Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell, who is stepping down from the role after 18 years. Thune’s leadership term will begin in January, when the 119th Congress convenes, and he is expected to serve for at least the next two years.
As Senate Majority Leader, Thune will take charge of shaping Republican positions on key issues, managing the legislative agenda, and overseeing the confirmation of Trump-nominated judges and cabinet members. McConnell, who is the longest-serving party leader in U.S. history, played a crucial role in reshaping the U.S. Supreme Court and the federal judiciary. However, he has faced increasing resistance from within his own party, particularly as the Republican caucus has grown closer to Trump.
McConnell, 82, had announced in February that he would step down from leadership but continue serving his Senate term until it ends in 2027. His decision sparked leadership bids from Thune, the current Minority Whip, and Cornyn, the former Republican Whip. Scott, who had unsuccessfully challenged McConnell two years ago, also entered the race.
Scott, a more conservative figure, quickly gained support from Trump’s most prominent allies, including Elon Musk and Tucker Carlson. In contrast, Thune and Cornyn are seen as more aligned with McConnell’s establishment wing. Despite Scott’s efforts, he was eliminated early, receiving only 13 votes. Cornyn garnered 15 votes, while Thune led with 23. However, Thune did not secure the majority needed to win outright. In the second round, Thune triumphed, defeating Cornyn 29 to 24.
McConnell praised Thune’s leadership, calling the result “a clear endorsement of a consummate leader” and recognizing his political skill and legislative experience. Meanwhile, Scott expressed appreciation to those who supported him and said their voices had called for change within the Republican Party.
Although President Trump did not publicly comment on the race, Thune’s win and Scott’s early defeat are seen as a sign that Senate Republicans are asserting their independence and choosing a leader with significant experience and trust within the party. Thune raised over $31 million for Senate Republicans during the election cycle, contributing to the party’s success in flipping three Democratic-held seats and regaining the Senate majority.
Thune’s relationship with Trump has been somewhat complex, especially after Thune criticized Trump’s actions surrounding the January 2021 Capitol riot. Thune had initially backed Senator Tim Scott in the 2024 Republican presidential race, but the two have since built a stronger professional relationship. Thune visited Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort earlier this year, and they have communicated frequently in recent months.
In addition to Thune’s election as Senate leader, Wyoming Senator John Barrasso was chosen as Thune’s deputy, and Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton was named conference chair.
In response to Thune’s election, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a Democrat, congratulated him and expressed hope for continued bipartisan cooperation. “We’ve done many bipartisan things here in the Senate together, and I hope that continues,” Schumer said in his statement.
