President-elect Trump praised the choice of Senate Republicans on Wednesday, congratulating Senator John Thune of South Dakota on his election to be the new Senate Majority Leader. Thune will be a vital player in driving the Republican Party’s legislative priorities over the upcoming months.
“Congratulations to Senator John Thune, the Newly Elected Senate Majority Leader. He moves quickly and will do an outstanding job,” Trump posted, lauding Thune’s advancement in GOP leadership. Thune, a seasoned South Dakota senator, is set to take over the reins from Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), who opted not to seek re-election for the leadership post. McConnell, who has been a guiding force in the GOP for nearly two decades, publicly backed Thune’s leadership, signaling party-wide support for the new direction.
Thune’s ascension follows a spirited contest that included Senators Rick Scott of Florida and John Cornyn of Texas, both of whom were seen as viable candidates for the role, according to Fox News.
Despite the competition, Scott and Cornyn pledged to work closely with Thune to advance a cohesive Republican agenda. Scott acknowledged the outcome and underscored his commitment to party unity, saying, “While it isn’t the result we hoped for, I will do everything possible to make sure John Thune is successful in accomplishing President Trump’s agenda.” Cornyn also pledged his support, particularly emphasizing policy issues like addressing the national debt, extending Trump-era tax cuts, and revisiting border policies introduced under the Biden administration.
The leadership transition introduces fresh new faces in the Senate GOP ranks. Trump applauded the entire team, which now includes John Barrasso as Senate Majority Whip, Tom Cotton as Republican Conference Chair, Shelley Moore Capito as Policy Committee Chair, James Lankford as Conference Vice Chair, and Tim Scott as head of the National Republican Senatorial Committee.
In his initial statement following the election, Thune voiced his commitment to working closely with Republican House members to bring forward Trump’s platform. His leadership is expected to play a central role as the GOP seeks to confirm nominees and pass key legislation aligned with the incoming administration’s priorities.
The GOP’s firm control over both legislative chambers and the White House opens the door for significant policy shifts in 2025 and they work to implement Trump’s plan to “Make America great again.”
