Senate Minority Whip John Thune, R-S.D., responded to President-Elect Donald Trump’s newly announced litmus test for those vying to be the next GOP leader, exclusively telling Fox News Digital that he was open to it and that “all options are on the table.”
Trump stated that the new leader must agree to Recess Appointments in the Senate in order to ensure timely confirmations of key positions. Recess appointments allow the president to fill federal vacancies that arise while the Senate is in recess, as outlined in the Constitution’s Recess Appointments Clause.
Thune emphasized the need to swiftly confirm the president’s cabinet and other nominees to fulfill the mandate given by the American people. He expressed readiness to explore all avenues, including recess appointments, to prevent Senate Democrats from obstructing the will of the people.
Trump’s call for a commitment to recess appointments follows his struggles with a divided Congress in 2020, where he faced challenges in pushing through appointments during the COVID-19 pandemic due to the Senate’s refusal to adjourn.
In the upcoming race to succeed Mitch McConnell as GOP leader, Senator Thune faces competition from Senators John Cornyn and Rick Scott. Thune’s opponent, Senator Rick Scott, pledged full support for Trump’s nominations, echoing the president’s urgency to expedite the confirmation process.
The election for the new GOP Senate leader is scheduled for November 13 and will be conducted by secret ballot. Despite not endorsing any candidate yet, Trump’s litmus test has set the tone for the leadership race, emphasizing the importance of aligning with the president’s priorities.
As the contenders prepare for the leadership contest, the stakes are high in determining who will steer the Senate Republican Conference in the next chapter, particularly with the pressing need to address key appointments and fulfill the administration’s agenda.
The race for the GOP leadership position underscores the significance of unity and swift action within the party to advance the interests of the American people. With all options on the table, including the possibility of recess appointments, the outcome of the leadership race will shape the trajectory of the Senate and its ability to deliver on the promises made to the electorate.