No sooner had Kentucky Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell last week announced that he would step down in November as Senate minority leader did replacement surface – and chatter about how likely GOP Presidential nominee Donald Trump would respond.
Three potential candidates have emerged: Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), John Cornyn (R-Texas) and John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) – each members of McConnell’s leadership team.
“President Trump and I had a really good conversation last week,” Mullin told CNN. My advice to President Trump … is to kind of stay out of the race because it’s a lose-lose situation.”
Mullin has already expressed support for Thune, who recently endorsed Trump. But there remains speculation Thune is not Trump’s preferred pick and might try to upend his bid.
Cornyn has also endorsed Trump, who has expressed support for Montana Sen. Steve Daines to become the next Senate Republican leader.
“It’s really not in his best interest to lean in the race at this point,” Mullin also said. “However, if he chooses to do it, it will make a difference.”
