The Future of the Republican Senate Is in John’s Hands

With Mitch McConnell leaving leadership, what’s next for Senate Republicans?

John Barrasso, Mitch McConnell, John Thune, John Cornyn
For now, the top candidates to take over as Senate Republican leader are John Barrasso, John Thune and John Cornyn. Alex Brandon/AP

After almost two decades, Mitch McConnell is on his way out as leader of the Senate Republicans. Which means it may finally be time for a John.

“I mean, at this point, we all know who’s interested,” Sen. J.D. Vance said. “I plan to support John.”

Much can and will change between now and the expected leadership elections in November, but for now, the top contenders to lead the Senate GOP are the “Three Johns”: Minority Whip John Thune of South Dakota, Conference Chairman John Barrasso of Wyoming and Texas’ John Cornyn, who previously served as whip.