President-elect Donald Trump and Republicans are calling for changes for those seeking leadership positions as lawmakers will begin congressional leadership elections this week.
Trump posted on X Sunday that those seeking the position of Senate majority leader “must agree to Recess Appointments (in the Senate!), without which we will not be able to get people confirmed in a timely manner.”
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“Sometimes the votes can take two years, or more. This is what they did four years ago, and we cannot let it happen again. We need positions filled IMMEDIATELY!” he said. “Additionally, no Judges should be approved during this period of time because the Democrats are looking to ram through their Judges as the Republicans fight over Leadership. THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE. THANK YOU!”
Both chambers will begin leadership elections this week after the Republican Party gained control of the Senate and is on the brink of controlling the House again.
Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) commented on Trump’s message, saying he “will do whatever it takes to get your nominations through as quickly as possible.” Shortly after, Scott gained support from Elon Musk, who said that Scott should be the next Senate majority leader.
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Scott is considered the long-shot candidate in the battle to succeed current Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), as Sens. John Thune (R-SD) and John Cornyn (R-TX) are considered the favorites. However, Scott did receive the backing of Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), as well as endorsements from Sens. Ron Johnson (R-WI), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), and Rand Paul (R-KY).
For the other two candidates, Cornyn has been publicly endorsed by Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO), while Thune has been publicly endorsed by Sens. Mike Rounds (R-SD) and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK).
Meanwhile, lawmakers also proposed new rules related to the Republican conference, which were due Thursday but have yet to be made public.
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Politico reported Sunday that Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) proposed a new rule mandating that House members seeking leadership roles resign from their present roles. This would allow more Republicans to enter leadership roles. Still, it could make it challenging for lawmakers who have leadership aspirations.
The rule comes after last year’s chaotic House speakership race to replace former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, including 22 days of fighting to fill the position.
