John Thune Elected Senate GOP Leader, Succeeding McConnell

Senator John Thune of South Dakota has been elected as the new leader of the Senate Republican conference, succeeding Mitch McConnell. Thune, currently the GOP whip, will assume the role in January when the new Congress convenes, with Republicans expected to control the House, Senate, and presidency. With a 53-seat majority, the GOP plans to address key issues such as tax cuts, immigration, and energy policy. Thune, 63, is not up for reelection until 2028 and has not committed to a term limit for his new leadership position.