Trump privately backed John Thune in tight leader race, Sen Steve Daines suggested

The National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) Chairman and top Trump ally, Senator Steve Daines, recently suggested to senators ahead of the Wednesday Republican leader election that President-elect Donald Trump was supporting Senate Minority Whip John Thune to win, despite not publicly endorsing him.

Daines, who gave one of Thune’s two nominating speeches before voting began, hinted that Trump was backing Thune in the race against Senators Rick Scott and John Cornyn. Daines is privately encouraging other Republicans to support Thune, according to sources.

Rick Scott had received public endorsements from Trump-aligned individuals, including Elon Musk, and had the support of several Trump-ally Senate colleagues. However, he was eliminated on the first secret ballot, receiving only 13 votes.

Thune ultimately won the leader’s race on the second secret ballot, receiving 29 votes compared to Cornyn’s 24. Thune had early backing from another top Trump ally, Senator Markwayne Mullin.

Despite the fractured relationship between Thune and Trump during Trump’s first term as president, they have apparently repaired their relationship. Daines’ office clarified that he had told colleagues “Trump likes Thune” before the ballots were cast, but denied endorsing Thune.

After Thune’s win, Trump congratulated him on Truth Social, praising him for his quick action and leadership skills. Thune’s office did not immediately provide comment on Trump’s private support.

Thune had previously hedged on committing to allow recess appointments, a request Trump had made to the leader candidates. Thune stated that everything was on the table when it came to confirming Trump’s selections for his administration, without committing to allowing recess appointments.

In conclusion, Senator John Thune’s win as the new Senate GOP leader was a result of support from both Trump and his allies, despite the previous strained relationship between Thune and Trump. Trump’s private support for Thune indicates a potential mending of their relationship and a united front within the Republican Party.