Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell is preparing to step down from leadership at the end of the year, but his influence will be felt for years to come. A seasoned politician with nearly 18 years in the Senate, McConnell plans to use his seniority to speak out on foreign policy and counter President-elect Donald Trump’s agenda.
McConnell’s departure marks a significant shift in the Senate, with Minority Whip John Thune taking over as majority leader. However, McConnell alone won’t have veto power with a three-seat majority next year, leaving him among a handful of pragmatic Senate Republicans who can shape Trump’s agenda.
Experts say McConnell could become a check on Trump’s presidency, using his experience and knowledge to block controversial Cabinet nominees or influence key policy decisions. “I don’t know that he wants to play that role, but if he does, he could do it better than anybody,” said Sen. Kevin Cramer.
McConnell’s post-retirement plans are not yet clear, but his continued presence in the Senate will be felt by both parties. He has built a reputation as a voice of reason and pragmatism, earning respect from colleagues despite his establishment streak.
As Trump prepares to shape the Senate agenda, McConnell’s responses to key Cabinet nominees, such as Attorney General Matt Gaetz and Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., will be closely watched. His influence could also be felt in the defense budget, where he may hold a Senate Appropriations subcommittee chairmanship.
The shift in leadership marks a new era for the Senate, with Thune promising more member input and regular order. As McConnell prepares to step aside, his legacy as a pragmatic leader will be put to the test, and his continued influence will be closely monitored.
Source: https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/senate/3231926/mcconnell-pelosi-retirement-leadership