Though mentioned as one of the favorites to replace Sen. Mitch McConnell as Senate Republican leader, Wyoming’s senior Sen. John Barrasso announced early Tuesday he’s seeking the Republican whip position instead.
Wyoming’s senior Republican is running for the second-highest Senate position in his party.
Sen. John Barrasso announced Tuesday morning he’s running to become Republican whip in the U.S. Senate. If he wins, he’d be No. 2 to the new Republican Leader set to replace current leader Sen. Mitch McConnell, who announced last week he’ll step down in November.
McConnell’s Senate term does not end until January 2027, however.
“I have had time to reflect on how I might best serve the Republican Conference and our country,” says a Tuesday announcement by Barrasso. “After a lot of thought, I will ask my colleagues for their support and help to work for them as Assistant Republican Leader.”
Barrasso currently chairs the Senate Republican Conference, ranking him third-highest in the party.
Former whip Sen. John Cornyn of Texas announced his run for leader Thursday.
Current whip Sen. John Thune of South Dakota announced his own GOP leader run Monday.
cowboystatedaily.com/2024/03/05/barrasso-to-run-for-whip-not-leader/