Senator John Barrasso, a key figure in the Republican Senate leadership, has officially endorsed former President Donald Trump for the 2024 presidential race. This endorsement positions Barrasso as the highest-ranking GOP senator to publicly support Trump's bid for a return to the White House.
Appearing on Fox News' "Hannity," Barrasso, the third-ranking Republican in the Senate, emphasized the need for a "strong, Republican, conservative House and Senate," advocating for Trump's leadership to guide the country back on track. His support signals a notable shift in the Senate GOP's stance, as Barrasso is only the second member of the elected leadership to endorse Trump, following Steve Daines, the Republican campaign chief.
Barrasso's endorsement is significant within the Senate GOP, particularly as the conference will soon see a change in its leadership. With Senate Minority Whip John Thune (R-S.D.), former Whip John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Barrasso himself regarded as potential successors to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Barrasso's move cements his status as a pro-Trump senior Republican. Barrasso's advancement to the whip position next year seems likely due to term limits on Thune, and his endorsement means Trump now has the backing of 20 of the 49 GOP senators.
McConnell, who has remained neutral in the primary race, has distanced himself from Trump following the events of January 6. He expressed his intention to stay out of the Republican nomination discussions, though he affirmed he would support the party's nominee. This contrasts with Thune, Cornyn, Senate GOP Policy Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), and Conference Vice Chair Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), who remain neutral in the presidential primary.
Barrasso's announcement comes ahead of the critical Iowa caucuses and amidst a shifting political landscape within the GOP. Recent polls indicate a surge for Nikki Haley, particularly in New Hampshire, where she has notably closed the gap on Trump. Trump's campaign team is reportedly shifting focus to counter Haley's rising momentum as the primary season kicks off.
Senator Barrasso's endorsement not only reflects his personal political stance but also signals a broader realignment within the Republican Senate leadership. It underscores the ongoing influence of Trump within the party and the strategic calculations of GOP leaders as they navigate the 2024 presidential race.
