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The new Senate Majority Leader John Thune has a difficult past with Trump

by November 13, 2024

Topline

Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., was chosen by Republicans on Wednesday to become the party’s first new Senate leader in nearly two decades — although some MAGA Republicans pushed for a more ardent supporter of the president-elect than Thune, who endorsed Donald Trump has this one But the cycle has already been broken with him in the past.

Important facts

The relationship between Thune and Trump began in 2016 when Thune — after endorsing him for president months earlier — became the first Republican leader to call on Trump to withdraw from the presidential campaign after the infamous Access Hollywood video was released.

Shortly after calling on Trump to leave the race and give the nomination to then-vice presidential candidate Mike Pence, Thune said he would still “support our party’s nominee… but he still has a lot of work to do, in my opinion.” does. “I will have any hope of winning this election.”

The couple faced another difficult situation in 2020 when Trump claimed the election was stolen, but Thune encouraged people to “move on” and accept the result.

Thune also said that any attempt by conservatives in the House to challenge the Electoral College results would “go down like a shotgun” – the comments drew the ire of Trump, who said on Twitter that Thune’s “political career (is) over!!! ” and “South Dakota doesn’t like weakness.”

Trump later encouraged South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem to run against Thune — whom he described as a “RINO,” or Republican, in name only — when he ran for re-election in 2022 (Noem had previously said Thune was “a friend of mine and…”) I won’t challenge him.”)

Thune did not vote to convict Trump in either of his impeachment trials, but issued a harsh statement after the second trial, declaring that his vote to acquit Trump was not “exoneration for his conduct on” January 6, 2021.

Trump did not support Thune for re-election in 2022 and after Thune won, he said the Republicans’ big losses were evidence that the party could not rely on Trump, saying: “You can’t have a party that is built on a person’s personality.”

This election season, Thune initially endorsed Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., for president, but later endorsed Trump, saying in February, “I support former President Trump’s campaign to win the presidency and I intend to do everything.” “I’m doing everything I can to get that done.” He has a Republican majority in the Senate that will work with him to restore American strength at home and abroad.”

The Wall Street Journal reported that Thune met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago in March to defuse tensions, and Thune told the Journal the two had “an understanding and it was professional,” adding, “We need to work together.” .” for the good of the country.”

After his election on Wednesday, Thune released a statement saying he was “extremely honored” and that “the Republican team is united behind President Trump’s agenda.”

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Crucial quote

“What former President Trump did to undermine confidence in our electoral system and disrupt the peaceful transfer of power is inexcusable,” Thune said in the February 13, 2021 statement released after Trump’s second impeachment trial.

Surprising fact

Trump did not endorse any senator in the election to become the new Republican leader, but said in a post on Truth Social that the next leader “must agree to allow recess appointments,” i.e.

Important background

Thune defeated Florida Sen. Rick Scott — a right-wing hothead who received support from Trump ally Elon Musk and Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Florida, but was eliminated on the first vote — and Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas. Thune was first elected to the Senate in 2004 and has held the Senate’s No. 2 Republican position since 2019. Thune will replace Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., a key ally of his who is retiring after 18 years as the party’s Senate leader. Thune’s victory comes at a time when Republicans are likely to secure a “trifecta” by taking control of the presidency, the House of Representatives and the Senate – although control of the House of Representatives has not yet been claimed – making it the will likely make it easier for Republicans to pass their agenda.

Big number

29. That’s how many votes Thune received from Senate Republicans to secure the position. In the first vote he received 23 votes, Cornyn 15 and Scott 13. The position was decided in two rounds of voting.

What you should pay attention to

Trump’s comments on Thune’s election. Trump had not yet congratulated him or commented publicly as of mid-Wednesday afternoon, but Thune said in a tweet that he had spoken with Trump and that “Senate Republicans are excited and ready to get to work advancing President Trump’s agenda.” on behalf of the American people.”

Main critic

Some MAGA personalities have criticized Thune’s choice. Far-right commentator Charlie Kirk said in a tweet that Thune has “a short window of opportunity to show us that he will support President Trump, fill his cabinet, confirm his judges and pass his agenda… If he doesn’t, we will.” Benny Johnson, another MAGA commentator, criticized the secret voting process on speak.

Further reading

ForbesJohn Thune elected Senate GOP leader despite Musk’s push for Rick ScottFrom Sara DornForbesHere’s who could replace Mitch McConnell — as Thune runs for GOP leader and Barrasso steps downFrom Sara DornForbesSenate leadership race: Here’s what you need to know if Trump allies support Rick ScottFrom Sara Dorn

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