After nearly two decades as the Senate Republican leader, Mitch McConnell has announced his retirement at the end of the year. McConnell's tenure has been marked by both triumphs and controversies, as he navigated the often tumultuous waters of American politics with a steady hand.
As one of the longest-serving Senate leaders in history, McConnell leaves behind a legacy that is sure to be debated for years to come. His strategic maneuvering and ability to rally his party behind key initiatives have earned him both praise and criticism from all sides of the political spectrum.
McConnell, R-Ky., who has served as GOP leader since 2007, made his announcement in a Senate floor speech Wednesday. An election to replace him as leader will occur in November, with his successor taking charge in January.
"One of life’s most underappreciated talents is to know when it’s time to move on to life’s next chapter, so I stand before you today, Mr. President and my colleagues, to say this will be my last term as Republican leader of the Senate," McConnell said, adding in his address that he had "total clarity and peace about the sunset of my work."
McConnell, 82, has suffered several health scares in the past year though his staff say that has nothing to do with his decision. He twice froze when speaking during press conferences in the past year, and he suffered a concussion after falling at a hotel in Washington.
The Kentucky senator said in his speech that he would serve out his term, which ends in January 2027, but he would work "from a different seat in the chamber".
"I still have enough gas in my tank to thoroughly disappoint my critics," he said.
He received a standing ovation at the end of his remarks, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a Democrat from New York, approached him afterwards to shake his hand. He was followed by many of his colleagues from both sides of the aisle, receiving a hug from Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska.
Tea Party, he also established a super political action committee, The Senate Leadership Fund, which has provided more than a billion dollars in support of Republican candidates.
"So this is a good development. My question is: Why wait so long?" Hawley said. "I mean, November's a long time away. We have a lot to achieve between now and then. We need new leadership now. It's my view, but this is better than nothing."
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