Mitch McConnell, the longest-serving Senate leader in history, has announced his decision to step down from his position in November, marking the end of nearly two decades of wielding power within the Republican Party, Associated Press reports.
McConnell, 82, made the announcement in the Senate chamber, reflecting on his nearly four decades in politics and citing a desire to move on to the next chapter of his life. McConnell plans to serve out his Senate term, which ends in January 2027, from a different seat in the chamber.
McConnell’s departure marks a significant ideological shift within the Republican Party, from traditional conservatism to the populism of former US President Donald Trump. Despite past collaborations, McConnell and Trump’s relationship became strained following disagreements over the 2020 election and the Capitol riot.
