Sen. John Thune R-S.D. the Senate Minority Whip and the No. 2 Republican in the Senate, has officially endorsed former President Donald Trump in the GOP presidential primary, signaling a significant shift in the political landscape.
Thune’s endorsement comes on the heels of Trump’s decisive victory over his last remaining GOP opponent, former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, in her home state’s primary. With Trump’s continued dominance within the Republican Party, Thune stated that it is evident that Trump will be the Republican nominee for president in the upcoming pivotal presidential election.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Thune emphasized the stark choice facing the American people, asserting that it’s between Donald Trump and Joe Biden. He pledged his support to Trump’s campaign to reclaim the presidency and expressed his commitment to ensuring a Republican majority in the Senate to work alongside Trump.
Thune’s endorsement holds significant weight as he is the highest-ranking Republican in the Senate to back Trump’s presidential bid. His decision diverges from Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who has refrained from endorsing Trump, especially following the tumultuous events of the January 6, 2021 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. Thune, who is often considered a potential successor to McConnell, had previously endorsed Sen. Tim Scott R-S.C. for the presidential bid. However, with Scott exiting the race and endorsing Trump, Thune’s allegiance has shifted.
The endorsement underscores Trump’s enduring influence within the Republican Party and highlights the complex dynamics shaping the GOP’s trajectory leading up to the presidential election. As Trump solidifies his position as the frontrunner, Thune’s support signals a rallying of party members behind the former president, setting the stage for a contentious and closely watched primary season.
