Steve Daines Declines Senate GOP Leadership Bid

Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) has publicly announced that he will not run for Senate Republican leader, a position that will be open following Sen. Mitch McConnell's retirement. Daines, who has been a key figure in Republican efforts to reclaim a Senate majority, expressed a desire to focus on family and life in Montana rather than the demands of leadership in Washington, D.C. He has indicated his support for Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) in the leadership race, which is expected to take place on November 13, 2024. Daines' endorsement is significant given his strong ties with former President Trump, which could bolster Thune's candidacy against Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas). Although Daines has decided against a leadership run, he is anticipated to have a prominent role in Senate leadership should Thune succeed. Daines will be up for re-election in 2026, with plans to focus on that campaign next year.