Mitch McConnell is Out – Who’s Next?

After Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell announced his retirement on Wednesday, many people began to speculate as to who could take over this important role.

McConnell has been a cornerstone for the Republican Party, having maintain this position for 17 years.

Mitch McConnell acknowledges he’s out of step with the Republican Party as he announces he will leave the Senate:

“I know the politics within my party at this particular moment in time. I have many faults. Misunderstanding politics is not one of them.” pic.twitter.com/OIyOblPhGf

— Citizen Free Press (@CitizenFreePres) February 28, 2024

Once the 2024 election has concluded, and prior to the newly elected members swearing in, there will be a Senate Republican Conference meeting in order to nominate and elect the new Senate Republican leader.

ABC News has some information speculating who are the most likely to take over:

There are three major contenders largely expected to vie for the top spot: the “three Johns,” as some have called them, are Sens. John Thune, John Barrasso and John Cornyn.

The race to succeed Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell atop the Senate GOP conference is on.

Republicans, for the most part, are looking at the trio of Senators John Thune, John Cornyn, and John Barrasso as the leading contenders.https://t.co/S59POcJWXH pic.twitter.com/JwVJpFR6p9

— The Hill (@thehill) February 29, 2024

John Thune seems to be the natural choice, as he is currently the No. 2 Senate Republican and serves as the minority whip.

Mitch McConnell to step down as Republican Senate leader in November. This explains why John Thune (SD), a candidate for GOP leader, endorsed Trump earlier this week. https://t.co/X2ArlPf6Cu

— Dan Weiss (@DanJWeiss) February 28, 2024

If Thune is out, John Barasso is certainly a highly anticipated choice as the No. 3 Senate Republican. He has the most conservative voting record of these three contenders, and was the first of them to endorse Trump.

Finally, John Cornyn, who once served as the Republican whip, is a viable option as he is considered a part of McConnell’s leadership team.

BBC News adds a few dark horses who could be considered for the position:

Sen Joni Ernst of Iowa, who served as the vice-chair of the Republican conference until January, is considered another potential candidate and a reliable backer of Mr Trump.

Another possibility is Senator Steve Daines of Montana. He currently leads the National Republican Senatorial Committee, and is leading the party’s efforts to retake the Senate majority.

Many Republicans feel bullish about their chances, and their electoral success in November could lift Mr Daines’ profile further.

Many people have taken to X to discuss the many options to replace Mitch McConnell:

If you would like to see Senator Rand Paul (@RandPaul) replace Senator Mitch McConnell (@LeaderMcConnell) as Senate Minority Leader, kindly like this post. pic.twitter.com/qnxyF1bkl9

— Simon Ateba (@simonateba) February 28, 2024

Senator John Thune, RSD is the likely choice to replace Senator Mitch McConnell. My thoughts 💭. https://t.co/LjkIv3Fj8f

— Clara Hart (@clara_hart68484) February 28, 2024

Very few are excited about Cornyn:

OH HELL NO. Not another establishment lifer. McConnell said the body needs the next generation to take over. That isn’t Cornyn. Nothing will change. They need the most anti establishment, limited government, constitutionalist Senator we can find.https://t.co/PtzA7hHrXT

— David A. Clarke, Jr. (@SheriffClarke) February 28, 2024

The decision of McConnell will open up a major position in the Senate, and is a major position to watch for in the upcoming months.