Rick Scott Joins Race For Senate GOP Leader

On Wednesday, Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) entered the race to replace Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) as leader of the Senate GOP.

Scott, who is also running for a second term in the Senate this year, joins Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) and second-ranked Sen. John Thune (R-SD) in vying for the top position.

“I believe that our voters want us to use this leadership election to make a choice to upend the status quo in Washington,” Scott said in a letter to colleagues.

“If you also believe this to be true and want a leader dedicated to that principle, I would be honored to have the opportunity to earn your support,” he added.

Scott is a former governor of Florida who first won a Senate seat in 2018. He served two years as National Republican Senatorial Committee chairman.

In 2022, Scott ran a campaign to take the Senate GOP leadership position from McConnell, but lost 37-10 in a secret-ballot election.

Scott endorsed former President Donald Trump in the 2024 election last fall and has been talked about as a potential running mate.

“As Republican leader, I will protect senators’ interests while helping President Trump accomplish his goals,” Scott said in his letter.

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“Our country’s success and our Conference’s success will be dependent on President Trump’s success,” he continued.

McConnell, who is 82, announced in February that he would step aside as GOP leader after 16 years, but plans to remain in the Senate until his term ends in early 2027.

Leadership elections are expected to take place in November, including for the No. 2 whip position, which Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) is seeking. Winners will take over their new roles in January.

In his letter to colleagues, Scott called for more transparency between senators and the public, saying, “There have been far too many backroom deals cut in secret.”

Scott said he believes a leader should be limited to a six-year term and envisioned a “realistic schedule” to prevent continuing resolutions and omnibus spending bills.

“This is not a time to make small adjustments, I believe we need a dramatic sea change to save our country and that’s why I’m running to be Republican leader,” Scott said.