Mitch McConnell, the longest-serving Senate leader in history, will step down from his position as Republican Senate leader in November.
"One of life’s most underappreciated talents is to know when it’s time to move on to life’s next chapter," McConnell said. “So, I stand before you today, Mr. President and my colleagues, to say that this will be my last term as Republican leader of the Senate."
Kentucky's Republican leaders were briefed slightly before McConnell's decision was announced, but they say they're still shocked.
"I was very surprised," said Kentucky Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer. "He is one of the most consequential Kentuckians in the history of the Commonwealth - right up there with people like Henry Clay."
Thayer and Senate President Robert Stivers told reporters that McConnell's impact has significantly helped Kentucky over the years.
"We will never be represented by someone as powerful as Mitch McConnell in the United States Senate," said Thayer.
"He really gone to bat," he added. "We're a medium-sized state - eight electoral votes, six members of Congress, two in the Senate. He's up against those folks from California, Florida, New York, and Texas when it comes to appropriations. And nobody throws a sharper elbow than Mitch McConnell when it comes to fighting for Kentucky."
"Or punches any heavier and harder," added Stivers.
Stivers also emphasized McConnell's impact on the state level. He credits McConnell for helping Republicans gain control of the Kentucky Senate and House.
"A lot of people don't realize the impact he's had on this building, individuals like us - assisting us, assisting our other members, and changing the body politics here in Frankfort," said Stivers.
"He helped us get in the majority. He's helped us stay in the majority. He's helped us grow our majority," added Thayer. "Our colleagues in other states are envious that we've got Mitch McConnell, who's been helping us out in gaining these majorities that you see at the top of these stairs."
Stivers and Thayer stressed that McConnell will still be helpful as he serves out his term in the U.S. Senate. But what happens next? McConnell's seat is on the ballot in 2026. The question is: will McConnell be running for re-election? Kentucky's Republican leaders say: "Never count out Mitch McConnell."
"Even though this part of Mitch McConnell's political career will be over in November - that of being the Republican leader - I think the last chapter of Mitch McConnell's political life has yet to be written," said Thayer. "More to come, I predict."
"I do not believe that this announcement today is any indication of what his future plans may be," added Stivers. "We, some of our senate members, and the Speaker of the House hosted a small fundraiser for him for the 2026 election."
