Senate Republican advises Trump to stay out of race to succeed McConnell

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Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma has publicly advised former President Donald Trump to refrain from intervening in the selection process for the next Senate Minority Leader. This leadership position will soon be vacated by Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, who unexpectedly announced his departure effective next November. The race for McConnell’s successor has spotlighted three leading contenders: Senators John Thune of South Dakota, John Cornyn of Texas, and John Barrasso of Wyoming.

Mullin, who supports Thune and serves on his whip team, expressed his viewpoint on CNN’s “State of the Union.” He shared insights from a recent discussion with Trump, emphasizing his recommendation for Trump to avoid the leadership race, describing such involvement as a lose-lose situation. Despite acknowledging Trump’s significant influence, Mullin highlighted the necessity for any future leader to collaborate effectively with Trump, suggesting that direct involvement in the race may not be in Trump’s best interest.

Senator Thune, despite having critiqued Trump in the past, recently endorsed him for the presidency shortly before McConnell’s announcement. Trump, in turn, acknowledged the merit of the candidates aiming to succeed McConnell. Mullin lauded Thune’s leadership, especially noted during McConnell’s absence due to illness, underscoring Thune’s capacity to lead in critical times.