John Thune, the newly-elected Senate Majority Leader, is surrounded by a mix of long-time Washington insiders and key Trump allies. His inner circle includes chief of staff Geoff Antell and trusted adviser Ryan Nelson, along with other long-serving staffers. Thune also benefits from the influence of former Trump officials like Johnny DeStefano and has strong connections with K Street through former staffers now in influential positions. As he prepares to lead the Senate, Thune will navigate a political landscape shaped by Trump's influence and policy priorities.
John Thune has been elected as the Senate majority leader, marking a significant shift in Republican leadership during Donald Trump's second term. Thune's election is seen as a rebuke to Trump allies who supported Rick Scott for the position. Despite past criticisms from Trump, Thune's leadership could serve as both an ally and a check on Trump's agenda. The election comes as Trump prepares for a transition of power with outgoing President Joe Biden, following his recent electoral victory.
Senate Republicans have elected John Thune as the new Senate Majority Leader, succeeding Mitch McConnell. Thune, who is currently the No. 2 GOP leader, will lead the Republican agenda in the Senate with a 53-47 majority, focusing on confirming Trump's Cabinet nominees and renewing Trump's 2017 tax cuts. Despite some opposition from Trump allies, Thune's experience and relationships secured his election. Democrats, including Chuck Schumer, have congratulated Thune, expressing hope for bipartisan cooperation.
Senator John Thune of South Dakota has been elected as the new Senate Majority Leader, replacing Mitch McConnell, despite opposition from MAGA supporters. Thune won the position in a secret ballot, defeating Senators John Cornyn and Rick Scott. His election signifies some independence from the MAGA movement, as Thune had previously endorsed Tim Scott over Trump in the 2024 Republican presidential primary. Thune's leadership comes as Republicans regain Senate control, with Trump in the White House and conservatives holding sway in the Supreme Court.
Senator John Thune of South Dakota has been elected as the new Senate majority leader, succeeding Mitch McConnell. Thune won against Texas Senator John Cornyn and Florida Senator Rick Scott. The Republicans are poised to take control of the Senate majority starting in January, following the current Democratic majority.
U.S. Senator John Cornyn is vying to become the next Senate Majority Leader, aiming to succeed Mitch McConnell. Cornyn, a seasoned politician with a strong fundraising record, faces competition from John Thune and Rick Scott. Despite his extensive experience and connections, Cornyn faces criticism from the right wing of his party, particularly for his bipartisan efforts and support for gun safety legislation. The leadership decision will be made by a secret ballot among Senate Republicans, with Cornyn's ability to navigate party dynamics and his legislative record being key factors in his bid.
Elon Musk has endorsed Florida Senator Rick Scott for Senate Majority Leader, following a poll he conducted on X, where Scott received 65.5% of the votes. This endorsement comes as the Republican Party seeks a successor to Mitch McConnell, with Scott, John Cornyn, and John Thune as the main contenders. Musk's influence in politics is growing, having been a major contributor to Trump's campaign and continuing to support political activities through his super PAC, America PAC.
Elon Musk and several Trump allies have publicly endorsed Florida Senator Rick Scott for the position of Senate Majority Leader, following the Republicans' control of the Senate in the recent elections. Scott, a Trump-backed candidate, is vying to replace Mitch McConnell, who is stepping down. Despite some reports suggesting Trump dismissed Scott's bid, a senior Trump campaign official denied these claims. Other contenders for the leadership role include Senators John Thune, John Cornyn, and John Barrasso.
Senator Josh Hawley has endorsed Senator John Cornyn for the position of Senate Majority Leader, citing Cornyn's efforts in fundraising and supporting competitive Senate races. Cornyn is competing against Senators Rick Scott and John Thune for the role, following Mitch McConnell's announcement that he will not seek another term as Senate Republican leader. The GOP senators will vote on the new leader on November 13.
Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic has announced that her cancer has returned, and she will be stepping down from her leadership position to focus on her health. Dziedzic, who has been a strong advocate for cancer research and treatment, expressed gratitude for the support she has received and stated that she will continue to serve her constituents as a senator.
Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro blames Governor Joe Lombardo for the failure of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget bill, which was voted down by Senate Republicans in the final hour of the 2023 regular legislative session. Cannizzaro said the governor failed to uphold his end of a handshake deal to close down the session, which included passing all five major budget bills and several of the governor’s major policy priorities. A special session is expected to be called to pass the CIP budget and possibly some other high-profile items.
