In a major reshuffle within Senate Republican leadership, Senator John Thune of South Dakota has been elected as the next Senate majority leader. Following a private vote on Wednesday, Thune’s victory highlights a new chapter for Senate Republicans as they prepare to support President-elect Donald Trump’s agenda in the 119th Congress. Thune, previously an ally of longtime Senate leader Mitch McConnell, emerged victorious in a closely watched, two-round election that saw him edge out Senator John Cornyn (R., Texas) and Senator Rick Scott (R., Fla.), both formidable contenders in the leadership race.
The vote, conducted behind closed doors, came down to a head-to-head battle between Thune and Cornyn. Thune ultimately prevailed by a 29-24 margin after Scott was eliminated in the first round. The selection of Thune reflects a mix of his deep-rooted relationships within the Senate and policy alignment with Trump’s vision. Following his election, Thune expressed his gratitude, saying, “I am extremely honored to have earned the support of my colleagues to lead the Senate in the 119th Congress. I am beyond proud of the work we have done to secure our majority and the White House. This Republican team is united behind President Trump’s agenda, and our work starts today.” He added that Senate Republicans would focus on Trump’s priorities, such as immigration reform and bolstering U.S. energy independence.
In other leadership changes, Senator John Barrasso (R., Wyo.) was elected as the Senate majority whip, the second-highest leadership position, while Senator Tom Cotton (R., Ark.) was appointed GOP conference chair after defeating Senator Joni Ernst (R., Iowa) for the role.
In a strategic appointment to his incoming cabinet, President-elect Donald Trump announced that Senator Marco Rubio (R., Fla.) will serve as Secretary of State. Rubio, who has been a senator since 2011, is known for his strong foreign policy stances and support of Trump’s “America First” approach. Rubio’s nomination will go before the GOP-controlled Senate, where Republicans hold a 53-47 majority, for confirmation. If confirmed, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis will appoint a successor to fill Rubio’s Senate seat.
Trump lauded Rubio’s dedication to U.S. foreign policy, stating, “Marco is a Highly Respected Leader, and a very powerful Voice for Freedom… He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries.” Rubio has been a vocal supporter of key Trump administration positions, including strong support for Israel and a
firm stance against adversaries like Iran, China, and Russia. Once regarded as a neoconservative, Rubio has increasingly aligned with Trump, transforming from a primary challenger in 2016 to a close ally.
Another large announcement was when President-elect Trump nominated Representative Matt Gaetz (R., Fla.) as Attorney General. Gaetz, a prominent conservative and attorney with a background in criminal justice reform, is expected to bring a strong focus on transforming the Department of Justice. Trump praised Gaetz’s legal skills and commitment to reform, saying, “Matt is a deeply gifted and tenacious attorney… who has distinguished himself in Congress through his focus on achieving desperately needed reform at the Department of Justice.”
Trump stated Gaetz’s alignment with his goal of “ending the partisan Weaponization of our Justice System.” As Attorney General, Gaetz would be tasked with dismantling criminal organizations, strengthening border security, and restoring public confidence in the DOJ. Gaetz has been a vocal member of the House Judiciary Committee, where he has overseen DOJ activities and was involved in investigating the FBI’s handling of past investigations.
Gaetz expressed his gratitude for the nomination on social media, posting on X (formerly Twitter), “It will be an honor to serve as President Trump’s Attorney General!” Gaetz’s confirmation process will go before the Republican-led Senate.
