After stepping down from his position as the longest-serving Senate leader, McConnell is now free to choose his battles and use his power in ways that may clash with President-elect Donald J. Trump.
After stepping down from his role as Senate leader, McConnell is looking forward to choosing his own battles and using his influence in ways that may lead to disagreements with President-elect Donald J. Trump. McConnell, who has held the position for the longest period in Senate history, is now free from the constraints of leadership.
Senator Mitch McConnell, a Republican from Kentucky and the Senate’s leader for the longest period, will be resigning from his position in January. Photo credit goes to Kent Nishimura for The New York Times.
Backed by
Written by Catie Edmondson
Covering news from the government
During President Donald J. Trump’s previous term in office, Senator Mitch McConnell, a Republican from Kentucky who held the position of majority leader at the time, played a significant role in supporting Trump and helping to pass his policies.
After serving as Senate leader for the longest period of time, Mr. McConnell will be stepping down from his position in January. It seems that he is now preparing to take a different approach, prioritizing issues that may lead to disagreements with Mr. Trump regarding policies and personnel as Trump begins his second term.
Lately, Mr. McConnell, who is 82 years old, has been expressing to his colleagues that stepping down from his leadership position has made him feel free. This was evident during a late-night voting session on the Senate floor last week.
He has shown doubt about certain controversial choices made by the incoming president for his team, choosing not to comment on their selections. Last week, he stated that it was right for former Representative Matt Gaetz to withdraw from consideration as attorney general. Additionally, Mr. McConnell has indicated that he will focus on two key issues during his remaining time in the Senate, which happen to be areas where he and Mr. Trump strongly disagree.
Senator McConnell’s term is set to end in 2027, and it is uncertain whether he will run for re-election. He has expressed his intention to prioritize advancing his interventionist foreign policy stance over the next two years, which contrasts with the president-elect’s "America First" strategy. Additionally, McConnell aims to protect the Senate’s independence as President Trump, who will have control over all branches of government in January, has signaled his intention to exert influence over the chamber.
We are experiencing difficulties in accessing the content of the article.
To use all features on this website, make sure to turn
We appreciate your understanding as we confirm your access. If you are currently in Reader mode, please close it and sign in to your Times account, or consider subscribing to access all of The Times content.
We appreciate your understanding as we confirm access.
Are you currently a member? Please sign in.
Interested in accessing all of The Times’ content? Subscribe today.
Prom
Table of Contents
Navigation for Site Information
