Additional Coverage:
Republican Senate Leadership Race Heats Up
As the November elections approach, Republican senators are campaigning and fundraising for colleagues who may succeed Mitch McConnell as Senate leader. However, the candidates’ strategies are largely confidential, and most GOP senators remain undecided.
Front-Runners Emerge
John Thune of South Dakota and John Cornyn of Texas are considered the frontrunners in the secret ballot election on November 13. Both men are well-respected and align with McConnell’s traditionalist approach. However, they have also hinted at moving beyond McConnell’s era by being more inclusive.
Trump’s Influence Uncertain
The outcome of the race remains unclear, and Donald Trump’s endorsement could be decisive. Thune and Cornyn have made efforts to align themselves with Trump despite past conflicts. However, some senators urge Trump to remain neutral.
Fundraising and Campaigning
Thune and Cornyn have been actively campaigning and fundraising for GOP senate candidates. Thune has raised over $31 million, while Cornyn has a long history of fundraising for Republicans.
Policy Similarities
Both candidates generally vote in line with the Republican caucus but have also worked with Democrats. Cornyn played a key role in bipartisan gun legislation, while Thune has experience working across party lines on commerce issues.
Conservative Concerns
Some Republican senators have criticized McConnell’s leadership style and pushed for term limits. Cornyn has proposed such limits, but Thune has been cautious about weakening the leader’s authority. Both candidates have acknowledged these concerns.
Candidate Demands
Senator Mike Lee has put forward demands for candidates, including empowering individual senators and reducing the leader’s control. However, neither Thune nor Cornyn have shown interest in negotiating on these terms.