Thune takes run to replace McConnell public: ‘I hope to be’ leader

By David Sivak

Published March 4, 2024 2:30pm ET

Thune takes run to replace McConnell public: ‘I hope to be’ leader — Sen. John Thune, R-SD, speaks during a news conference with members of Senate Republicans leadership, Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022, on Capitol Hill in Washington. in Washington.

Sen. John Thune (R-SD) ended any doubt that he is vying to replace Mitch McConnell (R-KY) on Monday after the minority leader announced his retirement last week.

Thune, who has served as the Republican whip since 2019, soft-launched his campaign on Thursday by acknowledging he would sit down with Senate colleagues to explore the possibility of a run but held off on making a formal announcement.