Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin advised former President Donald Trump on Sunday to refrain from getting involved in the race to succeed Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, calling it a “lose-lose situation.”
Speaking on “State of the Union,” Mullin suggested that Trump’s interference in the selection process could complicate matters, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the future Senate leader and Trump.
Following McConnell‘s announcement of his intention to step down from his leadership role in November, speculation has intensified over who will fill his shoes. Leading contenders include Senators John Thune, John Cornyn, and John Barrasso.
The succession race not only shapes the future of Republican leadership but also underscores the party’s internal divisions, especially with McConnell’s departure, leaving a void in the Senate GOP’s leadership.
Mullin has thrown his support behind Thune, despite the latter’s previous criticisms of Trump. Mullin downplayed Thune’s past remarks, highlighting the need for party unity and Thune’s acknowledgment of Trump’s influence within the Republican Party.
Thune, once skeptical of Trump’s electability, has since endorsed the former president, signaling a shift in his stance.
While acknowledging that Trump could potentially sway the nomination process, Mullin emphasized his personal friendship with Thune as the basis for his endorsement. He also pointed to other viable candidates like Barrasso, Cornyn, and Rick Scott of Florida.
Mullin’s advice to Trump comes amid heightened tensions within the Republican Party, with various factions vying for control and ideological dominance. His call for Trump to stay out of the succession race reflects concerns about potential rifts and distractions as the GOP prepares for the upcoming midterm elections.
