Battle to replace McConnell remains wide-open as top candidates quietly woo key senators — and Trump
Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell’s potential successors have been working hard to secure support in the final days leading up to the leadership election on November 13. Senators John Cornyn and John Thune, the two top candidates to take over for McConnell, have been crisscrossing the country, rallying GOP candidates and cozying up to former President Donald Trump in an effort to win over their colleagues.
Both Cornyn and Thune have been actively supporting GOP candidates financially and on the campaign trail, hoping to solidify their positions as frontrunners in the leadership race. With the election just days away, the outcome remains uncertain, with senators acknowledging that the decision could go either way.
The looming question of Trump’s influence in the leadership race adds an extra layer of complexity to the situation. If Trump wins the presidential election, his endorsement could play a significant role in determining the next Senate GOP leader. However, if Trump loses, Thune and Cornyn will need to make a compelling case for how the GOP can move forward without the former president at the helm.
Both Cornyn and Thune have been actively cultivating their relationships with Trump in recent months, recognizing his potential sway within the party. From attending campaign events with Trump to meeting with his transition team, both candidates have been making efforts to align themselves with the former president.
While some Republicans believe Trump should stay out of the leadership race, others see his endorsement as crucial to securing the support of a significant faction within the GOP. With McConnell remaining neutral in the race, the outcome remains uncertain, with most senators keeping their preferences closely guarded until the secret-ballot election takes place.
Regardless of who succeeds McConnell, the role of Senate GOP Whip is also up for grabs, with Thune reaching his term limit in the position. Cornyn’s experience running the National Republican Senatorial Committee and his fundraising prowess could give him an edge in the race, but Thune’s relationships with newer senators could also work in his favor.
Both candidates have been engaging with their colleagues to gather feedback on potential changes they would implement if elected as Senate GOP leader. From increasing the influence of committee chairs to preserving the legislative filibuster, Cornyn and Thune are both making promises to shape the future of the Senate under their leadership.
As the leadership election draws near, the race remains highly competitive, with senators closely weighing their options before casting their secret ballots. With the outcome still uncertain, the next Senate GOP leader will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the party and guiding them out of the political wilderness.
