Senate Republicans vote to keep Thune as leader after election wipeout

Senate Republicans have reaffirmed South Dakota Sen. John Thune as the leader of the GOP conference after a turbulent day of deliberations on the significant losses they suffered in the mid-term elections. Although Thune was the clear favorite, the party's leaders held three separate meetings on Tuesday to express their discontent over the losses.

Some GOP members, such as Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson, had attempted to postpone the leadership decision, but the conference voted to proceed with the secret ballot election. West Virginia Sen. Jim Justice voiced a legitimate concern about continuing with the same leadership amidst the heavy losses, though he acknowledged that Thune had done a good job.

Despite the indecision and angst, Thune's close ties with the rank-and-file senators, as well as his successful management of President Donald Trump's policies, have contributed to his continued support. As Republicans grapple with the implications of their election setbacks, they are expected to discuss potential changes and strategies before the minority leadership role transitions to Thune.