Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) will run for Senate Republican whip, one step up from his current position as conference chair. He decided against challenging Sen. Mitch McConnell for the top spot. Sen. John Thune (R-SD) is running for Leader, along with Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX). Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) is seeking Barrasso's current seat as conference chair. McConnell will not step down until after the elections, when a new Leader will be chosen by secret ballot.
Key Points
Sen. John Barrasso will run for Senate Republican whip.
Sen. Mitch McConnell will not be challenged for the top spot.
Sen. John Thune and Sen. John Cornyn are also running for leadership positions.
Sen. Tom Cotton is seeking Barrasso's current seat as conference chair.
New Leader to be chosen by secret ballot after the elections.
Pros
Clear explanation of the current Republican leadership dynamics in the Senate.
Cons
Limited analysis of the potential impact of these leadership changes on policy decisions.