Longtime Republican leader Sen. Mitch McConnell announced he will step away from leadership in November, creating a leadership election in the GOP conference after the November election. McConnell's decision comes amid discontent with his handling of various bills and his relationship with former President Trump.
Key Points
McConnell announced he will finish his current Senate term, which ends in January 2027.
His health was not a factor in his decision to step down.
Pros
McConnell's legacy includes the nomination and confirmation of hundreds of principled constitutionalists to the federal judiciary.
Gratitude poured in from both McConnell's allies and critics after his announcement.
Cons
Republicans have expressed increasing discontent with McConnell's handling of the bipartisan border bill and national security supplemental package.