Republican Senator Mitch McConnell, the longest-serving party leader in Senate history, announced he will not seek reelection in 2026. The 83-year-old Kentucky lawmaker, known as the “Grim Reaper” for blocking Democratic initiatives, called his Senate tenure since 1985 “the honor of a lifetime.”
McConnell played a key role in shifting American politics rightward, securing a 6-3 conservative Supreme Court majority by blocking Merrick Garland’s nomination in 2016. His leadership helped overturn abortion rights and expand gun rights. A staunch defense hawk, he warned that America’s military strength has declined since he entered the Senate during Reagan’s presidency.
In recent years, McConnell saw the GOP move toward Trump’s populism. Though he condemned Trump for the January 6 riot, he later voted to acquit him and supported his 2024 campaign. Despite health issues, including falls and public freeze-ups, McConnell remains committed to defending the Senate’s integrity against efforts to abolish the filibuster.
His retirement leaves an open Senate seat in Kentucky, with Republicans expected to retain it. U.S. Representative Andy Barr and former Attorney General Daniel Cameron have expressed interest in running.
McConnell, who stepped down as GOP leader last year, vowed to use his remaining time to uphold the Senate’s role in U.S. governance. “The Senate is still equipped for work of great consequence,” he said. “And to the disappointment of my critics, I’m still here on the job.”
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