John Thune Throws Support Behind Trump in 2024 Race
A key Senate ally has given Donald Trump a boost as the former president aims to clinch the Republican nomination once more. Senator John Thune’s endorsement signals Trump’s enduring influence over the GOP.
As the number two Republican in the Senate, John Thune’s backing is significant given his previous reservations about Trump’s electability. However, after Trump’s South Carolina primary victory, Thune placed a call to the former president on Saturday night to pledge his support.
A Shift in Tune
Thune had previously backed Senator Tim Scott’s short-lived campaign before he dropped out in November. More recently, the South Dakota senator openly questioned whether Trump could win over moderate voters in the general election. However, Thune now says he will support the eventual nominee.
John Thune joins other Senate GOP leaders like John Barrasso and John Cornyn who have endorsed Trump in recent weeks. While the House is firmly behind the former president, the Senate has been slower to rally around him. Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has not spoken to Trump in over three years due to their bitter feud.
Thune’s endorsement, following Trump’s South Carolina primary landslide, underlines the ex-president’s control over the Republican party as the 2024 race heats up. It remains to be seen if concerns over Trump’s impact on down-ballot races will prove valid closer to November.
