Mitch McConnell, who led the Senate longer than anyone else and stayed strong through big changes in the Republican Party, will step down from his role in November.
He’s 82 and was going to tell everyone his decision Wednesday in the Senate. He said, “One of life’s most underappreciated talents is to know when it’s time to move on.” He’ll keep working in the Senate, but not as leader.
This is part of a big change in the Republican Party from traditional conservatism to the more fiery populism of Donald Trump.
McConnell didn’t give a specific reason for stepping down but mentioned his wife’s sister dying recently. He said, “The end of my contributions is closer than I’d prefer.”
He talked about his time in the Senate, from when Reagan called him “Mitch O’Donnell” to now. He believes America should lead the world and work hard on things like foreign aid for Ukraine.
Mitch McConnell, will step down from his role in November
But there’s been tension with Trump since Trump refused to accept he lost the 2020 election. McConnell blamed Trump for the Capitol attack and said he should face charges.
McConnell didn’t vote to convict Trump during his impeachment trial because he said Trump wasn’t in office anymore.
Despite this, Trump still has a lot of influence in the party, and some Republicans are unhappy with McConnell for not backing Trump more.
McConnell worked his way up in the Senate, eventually becoming leader in 2006. He won many elections and is known for helping other Republicans win too.
Even though some people worry about his health, McConnell says he still has more to give. He loves the Senate but thinks it’s time for new leaders.
