Senator John Thune, R-S.D., intends to run for Senate minority leader following the Republican Party's significant losses in the midterm elections, a source close to the senator told Fox News Digital. The GOP saw its majority in the Senate disappear, losing at least five seats.
Despite the setbacks, which occurred amid declining approval ratings for President Donald Trump and criticism over issues like the war in Iran, immigration, and gas prices, Thune defended the Republican conference's legislative record. He highlighted efforts to advance the president's agenda, including preventing tax hikes, securing the border, confirming Cabinet members, and appointing conservative judges.
In the past, Thune faced criticism from Trump and some House Republicans over the Senate's failure to pass key legislation, such as the SAVE America Act. This election integrity bill passed the House three times but stalled in the Senate due to the chamber's 60-vote threshold to overcome a filibuster.
It remains unclear if Thune will face any challengers for the leadership position. One source suggested that Thune's ambition might face backlash, citing the conference's failure to deliver on promises that could have boosted Republican voter turnout. This source also hinted that outspoken allies of the president, such as Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, could emerge as alternative candidates. The source also pointed to the Senate's limited session days in recent years as a potential factor in low approval ratings among Republican voters that may have hurt turnout in the midterm elections.