A rare power-shift is happening in Washington as three top-ranking Republicans seek to fill the soon-to-be empty Senate leadership seat. Mitch McConnell whose long-time control of GOP Senate operations ends early 25‚ announced his planned step-down – creating the first real leadership race in decades
The competition brings together three experienced lawmakers: John Thune from South-Dakota‚ John Cornyn representing Texas and Rick Scott of Florida (each bringing their own style to the race). The trio is working hard to get support before the secret-ballot vote happening this wednesday
Each candidate is trying to show their colleagues that they can work with president-elect Donald Trump and push forward his ideas; making their connection to Trump a key selling point. The nominees have been meeting one-on-one with other senators trying to build alliances before the crucial vote takes place
The importance of this change cant be understated – its the first time in many years that Republicans will pick a new Senate leader through a real contested election. The timing of this shift lines up with Republicanʼs expected return to Senate majority control