Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) called for a change in GOP Senate leadership after longtime leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) froze up twice in apparent medical episodes. Despite back-to-back concerning freeze-up episodes, McConnell has given no indication that he plans to resign while a physician has medically cleared him to continue his work.
“McConnell stays in as leader through the end of 2024. How does that affect Republicans’ chances? Are you concerned?” Fox News host Laura Ingraham asked Hawley on Thursday. “Yeah, I am concerned,” Hawley replied.
“I get asked about it constantly. I understand why people are concerned about it, I’m concerned about it. Listen Laura, I’ll be honest with you, I didn’t vote for Mitch McConnell for leader. He is not my choice to be leader and so I think we need a change,” he continued. “I’ve said that for months.”
Hawley was among 10 Republicans who voted against McConnell’s continued leadership this past January. Other known “no” votes included Senators Rick Scott (R-FL), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Mike Lee (R-UT), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Mike Braun (R-IN) Rand Paul (R-KY), Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Hawley.
Josh Hawley says Mitch McConnell is done and the GOP will struggle