Trump is lobbying for a opponent to aid Ukraine in place of McConnell

Former President Donald Trump secretly urged Senator Steve Daines to run for the position of Senate leader, even before Senator Mitch McConnell announced his departure from the post, reports Axios.

So far, three potential candidates have been considered to succeed McConnell, but Trump’s involvement suggests that the Senate may have a prolonged competition for the leadership role. Trump is strengthening his influence among Republicans in Congress, and if successful in the November elections, his support could ensure Daines becomes the Senate leader in January with the new Congress.

Daines cast his vote against the bill that allocated aid to Ukraine, which was separated from a larger package addressing various issues, including $20 billion for handling the immigration crisis at the US-Mexico border. He also opposed the package, arguing that the border issue falls under President Joe Biden’s jurisdiction and doesn’t necessitate further congressional action.