Voters unsure about McConnell’s replacement in Senate leadership

Listen To Story Above

A recent Rasmussen Reports survey reveals that most likely voters lack a definitive opinion on Senator John Thune (R-SD), who is positioned to succeed Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) as Senate leader.

Following a competitive race in November that included Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Rick Scott (R-FL), Thune emerged as McConnell’s prospective replacement.

BREAKING: GOP Senate Majority Leader John Thune says it's time to check the bureaucratic machine by taking a hatchet to the regulatory apparatus.

"I will work every day to serve my colleagues and to advance President Trump's agenda."

What are your thoughts on Thune's message? pic.twitter.com/dDlx6sW0YR

— Tucker Carlson Network 🇺🇸 Fan Account (@TCNetworkFans) November 14, 2024

The poll indicates minimal strong sentiment toward Thune among voters. While 28 percent view him favorably, with only eight percent expressing strong approval, 27 percent hold an unfavorable view, including 11 percent who strongly disapprove.

Notably, 44 percent of respondents are undecided about Thune. This uncertainty spans political affiliations, with 42 percent of Republicans, 45 percent of Democrats, and 46 percent of independents expressing uncertainty.

Regarding Thune’s potential performance compared to McConnell, 27 percent expect improvement, 21 percent anticipate decline, 33 percent predict similar leadership, and 19 percent remain uncertain.

“Forty-seven percent (47%) of Republicans think Thune will be a better Majority Leader, as do 10% of Democrats and 25% of voters unaffiliated with either major party. Thirty-four percent (34%) of Democrats believe Thune will be worse than most recent Senate Majority Leaders, a belief shared by nine percent (9%) of Republicans and 19% of unaffiliated voters. Thirty-three percent (33%) of Democrats, 28% of Republicans and 37% of unaffiliated voters say Thune will be about the same as most recent Senate Majority Leaders.”

The survey, conducted November 20-21 and 24, 2024, included 1,266 likely U.S. voters with a +/- 3 percent margin of error.

Thune, favored by establishment Republicans, secured victory after two rounds of voting. Initially receiving 23 votes against Cornyn’s 15 and Scott’s 13, he ultimately prevailed over Cornyn 29 to 24.

Republicans have a mandate from the American people to enact change, and our work starts now.

Joined @BretBaier for a great conversation on my role as the new incoming Senate majority leader. pic.twitter.com/SCxfWivdsC

— Senator John Thune (@SenJohnThune) November 15, 2024

This victory positions him to replace McConnell, whose health concerns last year intensified calls for his resignation.

Thune has already engaged with the incoming administration, meeting with Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth, praising his military background, stating, “He’s obviously an experienced veteran, combat veteran, so he brings a lot of experience about what the warfighters’ needs are and how to keep America ready for the potential battles of the future.”