Mitch McConnell's Potential Successor Makes His Move

Senator John Barrasso has officially endorsed Donald Trump for president amid speculation the Wyoming Republican is gearing himself up to replace Mitch McConnell as the GOP Senate leader.

In a statement, Barrasso confirmed just days ahead of the Iowa caucus that he is backing Trump in the 2024 election, declaring that "America was better off" under the former president's leadership.

Barrasso, the third highest ranked Republican in the Senate, is facing re-election in November, and has often been touted as the potential replacement for McConnell as Senate GOP leader when the Kentucky senator steps down.

Discussions about McConnell's potential successor were raised last year after the 81-year-old suffered a number of apparent medical episodes. Barrasso led McConnell away after he froze and appeared disorientated while speaking to reporters at Capitol Hill in July 2023.

Garrett Haake, a senior Capitol Hill correspondent for NBC News, was one of those who suggested that by becoming the highest ranked Republican senator to endorse Trump for president, Barrasso is "maneuvering" to be the next GOP Senate leader.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, CNN's chief congressional correspondent Manu Raju said: "Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell is neutral in the race as is Senate GOP Whip John Thune, who had backed Sen. Tim Scott before he dropped his bid.

"Barrasso, who is up for re-election in the fall, is seen as a potential successor to McConnell, as are Thune and Sen. John Cornyn, who also is neutral in the presidential race."

Right-wing YouTuber Charles J. Svestka added: "He's preparing to take over for Mitch McConnell in 2024. He's doing this to protect himself against Trump blocking his ascension to Republican Senate Leader & endorsing a Challenger. Don't let this fool you, Barrasso is still Mitch's Boy."

Barrasso's office has been contacted for comment via email.

McConnell has previously said he intends to serve out his current Senate term, which currently ends in January 2027, but has not confirmed either way if he will remain GOP Senate leader after November's elections.

Confirming his endorsement for Trump, Barrasso said that the former president "created the strongest economy of a generation, secured our Southern Border against a lawless drug and crime invasion, and made America an energy dominant superpower" during his previous term.

"All of these accomplishments are in stark contrast to the high prices and low expectations of the last 3 years. Biden administration policies have plunged America into decline," Barrasso added.

"President Trump and a new conservative led Senate partnership will restore American greatness. That means putting freedom ahead of government power and economic strength over government subsidies. It means putting affordable, available, reliable American energy and American energy workers back on top."

Barrasso has become the 20th Republican senator to endorse Trump, the frontrunner in the GOP primary, in the 2024 race.