Senator John Thune of South Dakota
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Thune, 63, is currently the second-highest-ranking Republican senator.
As minority whip, Thune is officially charged with taking the pulse of rank-and-file Republican senators and knowing in advance how votes will be distributed — a position that allows him to build relationships within the conference.
Overall, Thune is the current and potential leadership candidate who most closely resembles McConnell. He has worked closely with the Kentucky Republican and shares his views on aid to Ukraine and foreign policy more broadly.
As he began introducing himself to his fellow Republican senators, he said in interviews that he would represent a “new generation” of leaders — he is nearly two decades younger than McConnell — and would seek to hold every member of the House accountable. the conference.
He might have a problem with former President Donald Trump, however.
Thune supported Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina when he ran for president last year, called Trump’s conduct on Jan. 6, 2021, “inexcusable” and has been willing to criticize the former president in recent years.
He also endorsed Trump relatively late, in February, well after it became clear he would be the party’s presidential nominee.
Even though Trump won’t be able to choose the next Senate GOP leader himself, Thune may be hoping the former president doesn’t get deeply involved in the race.
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