Oct 31, 2024 - Politics & Policy

Trump ally Steve Daines privately backs Thune for Senate GOP leader

Stef W. Kight

This is Steve Daines — Photo: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.), who has been leading Republican efforts to win a majority in the Senate, has been privately telling colleagues that he supports Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) for GOP leader, Axios has learned.

Why it matters: Daines' good relationship with former President Trump and this cycle's GOP candidates gives important weight to his endorsement.

Daines has told the current Senate freshman class that he backs Thune, three sources familiar told Axios.

He is expected to give his official support after the election next week.

If Senate Republicans have a good night on Election Day, it would give Daines' leadership endorsement peak influence.
Senate Republicans will hold their internal vote for their next leader on Nov. 13.

What they're saying: "Chairman Daines is focused on taking back the majority. He'll have more to say about leadership races after the election," Daines spokesperson Mike Berg told Axios.

The news comes after Daines put rumors to bed on Wednesday that he could mount a last minute leadership challenge himself.

The big picture: Thune, who is currently No. 2 in the Senate GOP conference, has been considered to have the edge for the leadership position.

But Sen. John Cornyn (R-Tex.) has mounted a real challenge, and has had momentum in recent months, sources have told Axios.
Having someone with a solid relationship with Trump in his corner — like Daines — can be a boost.

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Trump ally Steve Daines privately backs Thune for Senate GOP leader

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