Mitch McConnell announces his new posts for the 119th Congress
Mitch McConnell, the outgoing Senate Republican Leader from Kentucky, has announced that he will be taking on new roles in the Senate Rules Committee and the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense during the 119th Congress. In a statement, McConnell emphasized the critical need to address America’s national security interests in the face of unprecedented threats.
“As Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, I intend to play an active role in securing the future of U.S. leadership and primacy,” McConnell stated. He also expressed his eagerness to work closely with Senator Susan Collins, who currently serves as the vice chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and the ranking member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense.
In addition to his role on the defense subcommittee, McConnell will also be leading the Senate Rules Committee. He emphasized the importance of defending the Senate as an institution and protecting the right to political speech in elections. McConnell praised Ranking Member Deb Fischer for her work in advancing these causes and highlighted her continued partnership in the committee’s efforts.
Having served in the U.S. Senate since 1985, McConnell is approaching his 40-year anniversary in the chamber. While he has led the Senate GOP since 2007, McConnell announced earlier this year that his current term as Senate Republican leader would be his last. Senator John Thune of South Dakota has been chosen to succeed McConnell as Senate majority leader in the upcoming Congress.
Following the Republican victory in the 2024 elections, Thune will take on the role of Senate majority leader. McConnell expressed confidence in Thune’s leadership abilities, stating that the American people elected Republicans to restore stability and order after years of Democratic rule. He highlighted Thune’s legislative experience and political skill as essential for leading the party’s transformation.
As McConnell transitions to his new roles in the Senate, he remains committed to advancing the interests of the American people and ensuring a strong national defense. The upcoming Congress will see a shift in leadership, with McConnell passing the torch to Thune as Senate majority leader. The Republican Party looks to the future with optimism and a determination to address the pressing challenges facing the nation.
