South Dakota Senator John Thune, on Wednesday, emerged the Majority Leader of the U.S. Senate.
Thune defeated Senator John Cornyn of Texas in Thursday’s election to replace Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell, who has held the post for the past 18 years.
He emerged winner in the second-ballot round, while Cornyn polled 24 votes.
Florida Senator Rick Scott, the preferred choice of Trump affiliates, was eliminated at the first round after gathering 13 votes – a round that saw Thune earn 23 votes and Cornyn earn 15.
In a statement after his victory, Thune said he is “extremely honoured” to lead the Senate in the 119th Congress.
“I am beyond proud of the work we have done to secure our majority and the White House. This Republican team is united behind President Trump’s agenda, and our work starts today,” he said.