Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.) is throwing his hat in the ring to succeed Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) as Senate Republican leader.
Scott, who is currently campaigning for his second Senate term, joins Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) and second-ranked Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) in vying for the top position. (RELATED: John Thune Launches Bid To Become Senate Minority Leader)
“I believe that our voters want us to use this leadership election to make a choice to upend the status quo in Washington,” Scott said in a letter to colleagues.
“If you also believe this to be true and want a leader dedicated to that principle, I would be honored to have the opportunity to earn your support,” he added.
Scott is a former governor of Florida who first won a Senate seat in 2018. He served two years as National Republican Senatorial Committee chairman. (RELATED: Sen. Cornyn Enters Ring To Become Next Senate Minority Leader)
In his letter to colleagues, Scott called for more transparency between senators and the public, saying, “There have been far too many backroom deals cut in secret.”
Scott said he believes a leader should be limited to a six-year term and envisioned a “realistic schedule” to prevent continuing resolutions and omnibus spending bills.
“This is not a time to make small adjustments, I believe we need a dramatic sea change to save our country and that's why I'm running to be Republican leader,” Scott said.
Leadership elections are expected to take place in November, including for the No. 2 whip position, which Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) is seeking. Winners will take over their new roles in January. (RELATED: Sen. John Barrasso Makes Decision On Run For Republican Leadership Role)
McConnell, 82, announced in February that he would step aside as GOP leader after 16 years, but plans to remain in the Senate until his term ends in early 2027.
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