Thune reelected as Senate GOP leader after brutal midterm losses
November 10, 2026 / 3:46 PM EST / CBS News
TL;DR
- John Thune was reelected as Senate Republican leader by acclamation.
- The reelection occurred after significant midterm losses for the Republican party.
- Senator Ron Johnson led an effort to delay the leadership vote, calling for a change in strategy.
- Johnson's effort to delay the vote ultimately fell short.
- Thune's previous tenure included passing the president's agenda and confirming nominees, but also government shutdowns.
- Some Republicans felt the GOP agenda under Thune was not aggressive enough.
- Thune acknowledged the need for reflection after the midterm results and emphasized focusing on affordability.