Senate Majority Leader John Thune is downplaying negative reactions he received at the Republican midterm convention, asserting that former President Donald Trump is not frustrated with his leadership.
Speaking in an interview Thursday, Thune acknowledged that he might be perceived as a liability by some Republican frontliners. He stated that he informs every candidate discussing their 2026 campaign that he will "come out for you or against you, whichever helps you the most." He added with a jest that "sometimes when you're the dreaded establishment in Washington, you know what the answer to that is."
Thune indicated that he was present at the convention in Dallas but was not on the main stage, instead participating in behind-the-scenes fundraising events. He mentioned hosting candidates at a dedicated area on Thursday.
Earlier, Trump had praised Thune to the convention attendees, saying the majority leader was destined for "great success." Responding to audible boos directed at Thune, Trump defended him, attributing his challenges to opposition from Democrats and the Senate's institutional procedures. "He's gonna have great success, you watch," Trump told the crowd.
Thune, who said he did not directly hear Trump's compliment, noted that while he "heard there were many boos," he believes Trump's frustration is directed more at the Senate's rules and procedures rather than his specific leadership. He pointed to the stalled progress on Trump's voter ID bill, the SAVE America Act, as an example of institutional hurdles.
He also cited Democratic obstructionism as a reason for difficulties in passing legislation, including measures that have historically garnered bipartisan support. Thune stated that the Senate has seen the highest number of roll call votes since 1976 due to Democrats' unwillingness to cooperate. He emphasized the stakes for Republicans if Democrats gain a majority in both the House and the Senate, characterizing it as a fight "tooth and nail."