Staff Reports
Senator Mitch McConnell, the man who has climbed the Senate ladder longer than anyone else in history, just announced he would not be running for reelection. This decision comes right on the heels of President Donald Trump throwing a little shade McConnell’s way. After a career spanning over four decades and a Senate stint that began back in 1984, McConnell appears to be waving goodbye—and not a moment too soon for many in the MAGA crowd.
McConnell’s departure marks the end of an era when backroom deals and power brokers reigned supreme in Washington. However, with the rise of the MAGA movement, folks are done with tired old figures like McConnell. The former Senate majority leader had earned the ire of Trump supporters, especially after voting against Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence. That faux pas didn’t just raise eyebrows; it was the kind of move that gets an incumbent thrown out on their ear in today’s political arena.
While McConnell’s political legacy may be tainted by criticisms from the right, one cannot ignore the mark he has left on the federal judiciary. Under his leadership, he pushed through the confirmations of six of the nine current Supreme Court justices and appointed a majority of the judges on the federal Courts of Appeals. His influence in reshaping the courts could be his most significant—and perhaps only—saving grace as he exits stage left.
Good riddance, Mitch. Smarmy, old-time, wheeler-dealer getting rich off DC. But winning his seat won't be a cinch. Democrat governor Andy Beshear will prove a formidable candidate if he decides to run. https://t.co/nbJdkcJF88
— J Robert Smith (@JRobertSmith1) February 20, 2025
Despite his lengthy tenure, bipartisan affection was never McConnell’s strongest suit, especially not with Trump lurking around the corner. While the Senator was busy racking up wins, he often found himself at odds with a president who had no qualms about calling him out. Even the spouse of the senator, Elaine Chao, got caught up in the mess when she resigned from her position as Trump’s transportation secretary after the chaos of January 6, 2021. Clearly, there wasn’t much harmony in their political melodies.
Unexpected medical incidents have also plagued McConnell during his final term, reminding everyone that D.C. might as well screen membership based on life expectancy. Between falling and stumbling through speeches, it’s clear that his health has become a topic of concern. On top of that, with a two-year stretch until his term ends in January 2027, Kentucky Republicans are likely scrambling to find a worthy successor. Meanwhile, Democrats are excitedly eyeing their own prospects, with Gov. Andy Beshear ready to take center stage. One can only imagine the discussions around these potential candidates at cocktail parties across the Bluegrass State, which might be the only excitement in town now that McConnell is riding off into the sunset.
