John Thune re-elected as US Senate Republican leader after midterm losses

John Thune has been re-elected unopposed to lead Senate Republicans, despite calls from some colleagues to delay the vote and review the party’s midterm losses. The decision gives him another term in a diminished position as Republicans prepare to lose control of the Senate, while President Donald Trump remains in office.

Republicans lost at least seven Senate seats, though Alaska and Mississippi were still uncalled. Senators Josh Hawley and Ron Johnson said the party needed time for reflection, but no rival challenged Thune; supporters cited his willingness to hear differing views. Thune said the result reflected several factors, especially the cost of living, and will now have to navigate the party’s relationship with a White House pursuing controversial policies.