Senate GOP Leader John Thune Expands Campaign Trail to Defend Majority

Senate Majority Leader John Thune is intensifying his travel schedule across critical battleground states as Senate Republicans work to maintain control of the upper chamber. Thune confirmed to CBS News that he will visit North Carolina on Thursday, followed by stops in Nebraska, Kansas, Minnesota, Florida, South Carolina, Ohio, and two trips to Iowa. The Senate Majority Leader also indicated he would participate in additional fundraising efforts.

Politico initially reported on the upcoming travel itinerary. In an interview from his office near the Senate floor, Thune emphasized a candidate-centric approach. “I’ve told all our candidates if it’s useful, if I can come in and help you in any way, I will,” Thune said. “If it’s not, I won’t, and I’m fine with that.”

This expansion follows a recent trip to Georgia, where Thune campaigned alongside Republican nominee Rep. Mike Collins in his bid against Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff. Thune also highlighted fundraising events he attended earlier in the week in New York as he prepares for a busier schedule once the Senate recesses later this week. He noted that his involvement would be limited to events that provide tangible support, whether through fundraising or media presence.

Thune has faced scrutiny from the right wing of his party and occasionally from President Trump regarding his stance on the SAVE America Act, a controversial election-related bill championed by the president. During the primary season, the South Dakota Republican suggested that his endorsement might not benefit certain GOP Senate candidates. However, acknowledging the shift to the general election, Thune stated, “Is it useful or not? Probably in most cases, not in primaries… But now we’re in a general election setting.”

Financially, Senate Republicans are well-equipped for the final stretch. The Senate Leadership Fund and allied groups announced in August that they have amassed over $500 million to support their candidates. With 53 seats currently under Republican control, the party is defending a map that has become increasingly competitive. While the initial landscape appeared favorable to GOP candidates, growing unpopularity surrounding the conflict with Iran and persistent voter concerns about affordability have opened up races in previously safe Democratic districts.

Describing the current political climate as a “jump ball,” Thune expressed confidence in the party’s positioning despite the uncertainty of close races. “I think we’re in position to preserve our majority, depending on how some of these close races break,” he said. He pointed to historical trends where Republican candidates have outperformed polling data, noting that with roughly 35 days remaining, the outcome will likely depend on execution in the final weeks of the campaign.