John Thune Elected Next Senate Majority Leader

John Thune of South Dakota has been elected as the new Senate Majority Leader, succeeding Mitch McConnell after 18 years in the role. Thune's election, which comes as Republicans prepare to control both the White House and Congress, signals a potential shift towards maintaining some independence from Trump, despite his past criticisms of Thune. The election saw Thune defeating Rick Scott, a Trump ally, and John Cornyn in a secret ballot, indicating that the GOP may be moving away from more extreme Trump loyalists. Thune's experience and relationships within the party are viewed as assets for advancing Republican policies. The Senate leader emphasized unity behind Trump’s agenda, stating that the work begins immediately. This leadership change reflects a gradual evolution within the Republican Party as it transitions from McConnell's long-standing influence.