The key facts

  • John Thune re-elected as Senate Republican leader and will head the minority in the 120th Congress
  • The Senate majority will shift to the Democrats starting in January
  • In the House of Representatives, Republicans earlier elected Jim Jordan as minority leader

Thune's Re-election

Republican senators re-elected John Thune as leader of their conference on Tuesday. Since the Senate majority will shift to the Democrats in January, when the new Congress convenes, Thune will lead the Republican minority as minority leader.

Statement and Plans

“I am grateful for the opportunity for an open, honest, and transparent conversation with my colleagues today, and I am honored by their continued trust and support in leading the Senate Republican Conference in the 120th Congress,” Thune said in a statement. He pledged to work closely with President Donald Trump and Republicans in the House of Representatives to advance their legislative agenda, adding: “We have important work ahead, and I look forward to serving alongside my colleagues in the interest of the American people.”

Context in the House of Representatives

Earlier, House Republicans elected Jim Jordan as minority leader in the next Congress. Thus, both chambers in the new session will be led by Democrats, while Republicans in each have chosen their minority leaders.