Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell announced on Thursday that he will not seek reelection in 2026, marking the end of a 40-year Senate career that began in 1984.
While celebrating his 83rd birthday, McConnell expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve his home state of Kentucky and reflected on his nearly two decades of leading the Senate Republicans.
“Seven times, my fellow Kentuckians have sent me to the Senate,” McConnell said in a speech. “Every day in between I’ve been humbled by the trust they’ve placed in me to do their business right here. Representing our commonwealth has been the honor of a lifetime. I will not seek this honor an eighth time. My current term in the Senate will be my last.”
Sen. Mitch McConnell (@SenMcConnell): "Seven times my fellow Kentuckians have sent me to the Senate…Representing our Commonwealth has been the honor of a lifetime. I will not seek this honor an eighth time. My current term in the Senate will be my last." pic.twitter.com/b33cR7I36e
— CSPAN (@cspan) February 20, 2025
Learn more about the all-new VT News and subscribe today!
Known as the longest-serving Senate party leader in U.S. history, he plans to complete his current term, which ends in early 2027.
McConnell’s retirement comes after a series of health issues and a shift in the Republican Party towards a more populist agenda under President Trump.
His departure symbolizes a significant change in the party’s leadership and direction as he steps back from a role he held through numerous political challenges and transformations.
McConnell’s influence has been pivotal in shaping conservative policies and the federal judiciary during his tenure.
Add comment