Rick Scott Announces Minority Leader Run In A Bid To Replace Mitch McConnell
Florida senator Rick Scott on Tuesday announced a run for Minority Leader, in a move that would see him replace Mitch McConnell.
After a dismal showing at the midterms, Republicans are reckoning with the fallout. Scott, meanwhile, has criticized the status quo.
"I'm writing to you today because I believe it's time for the Senate Republican Conference to be far more bold and resolute than we have been in the past," Scott wrote in a statement to GOP colleagues.
Senate GOP officials met Tuesday to discuss strategy following a midterm where the GOP lost key races, and failed to secure any Democratic-controlled seats. With some races yet to be determined, GOP members are eager to hold off on leadership changes. Despite remaining bullish of gaining his colleagues' support, Scott revealed his intention to run Tuesday.
With several Trump-endorsed candidates losing their races in the midterms, Republicans have indicated they are more likely to back Florida Governor Rick DeSantis. Meanwhile, former president Trump could yet announce a bid for the 2024 presidential race.
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued a warning Tuesday about uncertainty and rushed decision-making within the GOP. Cruz has called for a delay for a GOP leadership vote until the pending races are called.
"It is extremely likely it will be a contested election, that you will see one or more senators run against Mitch McConnell," he said.
Scott, who previously served as Florida governor between 2011 and 2019, also shared the news on Twitter.
Cruz on Monday criticized McConnell for 'abandoning' Arizona GOP nominee Blake Masters. The Texas senator also accused McConnell of prioritizing personal interests ahead of the party's goals.
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