Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., has announced his new roles in the 119th Congress. McConnell will chair the Senate Rules Committee and the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense.
In a statement, McConnell emphasized the critical importance of securing America's national security interests, stating that the country faces significant threats. He expressed his commitment to playing an active role in safeguarding U.S. leadership and primacy.
McConnell highlighted his intention to collaborate closely with Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, who currently serves as the vice chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and the ranking member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense.
Regarding his role as Chairman of the Senate Rules Committee, McConnell underscored the committee's vital work in defending the Senate as an institution and protecting the right to political speech in elections.
Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., has been selected to succeed McConnell as Senate majority leader in the upcoming term. McConnell praised Thune's leadership qualities and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the Republican majority in the Senate.
Following the Republican victory in the 2024 elections, Thune is set to assume the role of Senate majority leader, with McConnell voicing support for the transition and the party's commitment to restoring stability and order in Washington.
McConnell, who has served in the U.S. Senate since 1985, is approaching his 40-year anniversary in the chamber. While he has led the Senate GOP since 2007, McConnell announced earlier this year that his current term as Senate Republican leader would be his last.
The article concludes with McConnell expressing confidence in Thune's ability to lead the Republican transformation and the party's readiness to work under Thune's leadership.
