For instance, The Associated Press reported in 2020 that both McConnell and Democratic Sen. Chuck Schumer had won their party's leadership elections in secret ballots (although which of the two would be the "majority" leader and which would be the "minority" leader was still up for debate, since runoff elections in Georgia had not yet taken place).

Who senators choose, and whether Trump ultimately endorses a candidate in the final hours, could set the tone for Trump’s attempts to assert control over the legislative branch.

U.S. Senator John Thune (R-SD) walks on Capitol Hill on the day U.S. Senate Republicans meet to vote on leadership positions, including Senate Majority (Republican) Leader, for the 119th Congress in Washington,

The incoming Senate Republican majority made their very first major move, electing South Dakota Senator John Thune as their next leader. The Washington Post's Rhonda Colvin reports from the Capitol.

GOP Whip John Thune of South Dakota was elected by the Senate Republican Conference to succeed Mitch McConnell as leader in a secret election.

U.S. Sen. John Thune of South Dakota was chosen by his peers to lead his Republican senators in the 119th U.S. Congress.