Republicans Pick John Thune As Next Senate Majority Leader

Sen. John Thune (R-SD) was selected as the next Republican leader of the U.S. Senate, succeeding Mitch McConnell.

Thune defeated Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) and Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) in what was a hotly contested race. Scott was eliminated after the first ballot, and Thune won on the second, 29-24, according to Punchbowl News.

First elected in 2004, Thune has most recently served as minority whip. He will enter the next Congress as majority leader, one of Washington’s most powerful positions in that he will direct which legislation will make it to the Senate chamber for a vote.

For the next two years at least, Thune will be tasked with shepherding through Donald Trump‘s agenda, as well as his slate of nominees and judges.

Republicans are expected to have a 53-47 majority in the next Congress, after four years of Democratic rule.

More to come.