In a shocking turn of events, it seems that not everyone in the Republican party is thrilled with the leadership of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. Prominent GOP Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri has openly called for McConnell to step down, citing concerns about the future of the party and the upcoming 2024 election. According to Hawley, he was continuously bombarded with questions about McConnell during a recent visit to his home state.
Hawley didn’t mince words when expressing his views on McConnell’s leadership. In fact, he stated that he had voted against McConnell in December and believes that it’s time for a change. Hawley emphasized the importance of the 2024 election for the Republican party and expressed his hope that the focus would be on reclaiming the Senate instead of maintaining McConnell’s leadership.
A) Hawley: We were just home for a month in my home state of Missouri. I was asked everywhere I went about Senator McConnell before the most recent incident and then absolutely afterwards. I mean, everywhere I went
— Chad Pergram (@ChadPergram) September 6, 2023
Adding fuel to the fire are two incidents that have raised concerns about McConnell’s fitness to lead. The first incident occurred in July during a press conference on Capitol Hill when McConnell inexplicably stopped speaking. Then, just over a month later, he had another freeze-up moment while answering reporters’ questions.
These incidents, combined with Hawley’s call for McConnell to step down, paint a picture of a leader who may no longer be up to the task. As the Republicans gear up for the next election, it’s becoming increasingly clear that some members of the party believe they need a new direction. Whether McConnell heeds the calls for his resignation remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure – the GOP is in for a shake-up.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell begins his weekly press conference, freezes for 20 seconds, and then is escorted away by fellow Republicans. pic.twitter.com/mYdBaU0Acv
— The Recount (@therecount) July 26, 2023