John Thune snags another endorsement in competitive GOP leader race to succeed McConnell
In a recent exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., announced that he will be casting his first vote for Senate Minority Whip John Thune, R-S.D., in the upcoming leadership elections. Thune is vying for the position of Republican leader in the Senate against Sens. John Cornyn, R-Texas, and Rick Scott, R-Fla., to succeed the longest-serving party leader in Senate history, Mitch McConnell, R-Ky.
Cramer explained his decision to endorse Thune, citing their long history and shared roots in the Dakotas. He emphasized their personal relationship, dating back to their time as Republican Party directors during the 1990 election cycle. According to Cramer, all four senators from the Dakotas are supporting Thune, with Thune and Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., publicly backing him.
Despite pressure from external figures aligned with former President Donald Trump to support Scott, Cramer highlighted the unity within the Republican conference in supporting Trump’s agenda. He emphasized that while everyone is entitled to their opinions, the majority of the Republican Senate is aligned with Trump’s priorities.
In discussing the leader race, Cramer predicted that the outcome may necessitate a second secret ballot, as a candidate must secure 27 votes to win. He acknowledged the high-profile endorsements that Scott has received from Trump-aligned individuals, but reiterated his confidence in Thune’s leadership.
It is worth noting that Trump has not officially endorsed a leader candidate, despite pressure from his allies. Thune has garnered support from Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., while Cornyn has been backed by Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., and Scott has received endorsements from several senators, including Bill Hagerty, Rand Paul, Ron Johnson, Tommy Tuberville, and Marco Rubio.
As the leadership elections approach, the Republican Senate faces a pivotal decision in selecting its next leader. With competing candidates and a diverse range of endorsements, the outcome remains uncertain. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
