John Thune’s past criticism of Trump resurfaces amid Senate leadership battle

Senator John Thune of South Dakota, a leading contender for the U.S. Senate Majority Leader position, faces renewed scrutiny over his past reluctance to endorse Donald Trump. 

A resurfaced video shows Thune hesitating to back Trump, stating, “I’m hoping we have OTHER options.” 

Additionally, past tweets critical of Trump have also come to light, sparking mixed reactions about Thune’s candidacy. 

While some Republicans value Thune’s experience, Trump loyalists argue that his hesitance in supporting the former president makes him unsuitable for the role. The leadership race has intensified with GOP supporters of Trump leaning toward Senator Rick Scott of Florida, seen by many as a stronger proponent of Trump’s agenda. 

Adding to the momentum, President-elect Donald Trump publicly commented on the race for the first time on Sunday via Truth Social, stating that any candidate for Senate Majority Leader must agree to allow recess appointments, which would expedite the filling of cabinet positions without requiring Senate confirmation. “We need positions filled IMMEDIATELY!” Trump emphasized, calling for swift Senate cooperation.

Senator Thune, however, voiced his preference that Trump stay out of the race. “If he wants to, he could exert considerable influence…but honestly, I think it’s probably in his best interest to stay out of that,” Thune told CNBC on Thursday. Meanwhile, high-profile endorsements, including from Elon Musk, have rallied behind Rick Scott, adding to the growing divide among GOP members on the Senate leadership choice.