Senate Republicans reelected Sen. John Thune of South Dakota as their leader Tuesday. The vote came one week after the party lost control of the Senate.
Why it matters: Thune keeps the job but will lead a minority, after two years running the majority. His tenure included passage of Trump's tax, border and defense agenda and two record-long shutdowns.
Where they split: Republicans disagree over whether Thune's leadership contributed to the losses, or whether the party's policy record and economic conditions drove them.
Left coverage, 5 sources: The left frames the story as Republicans choosing continuity under Thune after heavy midterm losses tied to cost of living and the Iran war.
Right coverage, 15 sources: The right frames the story as a failed internal revolt, with conservatives demanding a reckoning that the vote did not deliver.
What’s next: The lame-duck session is the GOP's last stretch in the majority. Sen. Rick Scott wants it used for judicial nominees, funding and the SAVE America Act.
