Washington, D.C., USA — Senate Republicans have reelected South Dakota Senator John Thune as their leader despite growing frustration over the party's major midterm election losses. The decision came after Republicans lost their Senate majority, including at least seven seats. Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson led an effort to postpone the leadership election, arguing that the party needed time to examine its defeat. However, senators voted 31-15 to proceed with the election. Missouri Senator Josh Hawley also criticized the decision, saying, “If you don’t think after losing seven Senate seats minimum that we need to change course, I don’t know what planet you’re on,” West Virginia Senator Jim Justice acknowledged the arguments for new leadership but also defended the current leadership team, saying they “didn’t cause this problem to happen,” and “They do a good job.” Despite the disagreements, no alternative candidate emerged to challenge Thune. Thune first became Senate Republican leader in early 2025 after replacing Mitch McConnell. He has maintained support for President Donald Trump on most policies but resisted calls to eliminate the Senate filibuster to advance voting legislation. Republicans are now preparing to enter the minority in January, while two outstanding Senate races in Alaska and Mississippi could further affect their numbers. The party is also pushing to complete its legislative priorities before Democrats take control. Source: Associated Press (AP), CBS News. #JohnThune #RonJohnson #JoshHawley #USA #japd - @japdmedia26