Senator John Thune, the esteemed second-ranking Republican in the United States Senate, has announced his endorsement of former President Donald J. Trump for the upcoming Republican Party nomination. Thune’s support for Trump comes amidst growing evidence of the ex-president’s significant influence within the party, following his triumphant win in the South Carolina primary last weekend.
The endorsement from Thune, a prominent figure in the Republican establishment and a potential successor to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, marks a significant development in Trump’s bid for the nomination. Thune had previously voiced reservations regarding Trump’s abilities as a general election candidate and played a pivotal role within the party’s establishment faction.
Fox News reported the news of Thune’s endorsement prior to any official confirmation from Thune’s office. In the past, Thune had backed Senator Tim Scott for the presidency before Scott’s withdrawal from the race in November.
Despite his earlier reservations and concerns about Trump’s impact on down-ballot races, Thune announced his decision to support the eventual Republican nominee last month. The endorsement comes amidst some unease within the party regarding how Trump’s candidacy may influence various races, particularly those aimed at retaking the Senate.
In an interview with CNN last month, Thune expressed his longstanding concerns about Trump’s potential as a general election candidate. “I’ve always been worried,” he admitted. “General elections are won in the middle of the electorate. All that has repercussions for Senate races, too.” By endorsing Trump, Thune is effectively acknowledging that the former president’s influence and appeal extend beyond the primary season and may be essential to the party’s success in the upcoming elections.
