Mitch McConnell, the longtime Republican leader of the US Senate, declared his intention to step down from his leadership post in November, marking the end of a 17-year tenure atop the party, Reuters reported.
McConnell, who turned 82 last week, cited the inevitability of time catching up with him and expressed sincere recognition of the need for a transition to the next generation of leadership.
“I'm no longer the young man sitting in the back waiting for his colleagues to remember my name. It's time for the next generation of leadership,” an emotional McConnell declared on the Senate floor.
The departure of the 82-year-old Kentucky lawmaker will leave a void in negotiations with Democrats over crucial spending deals and the functioning of the federal government.
McConnell's departure is significant not only for his role in shaping Republican strategies, but also as a departure from the tumultuous style associated with figures like Donald Trump and the hardline House Freedom Caucus.
His departure will also end a career marked by controversial moves, including his pivotal role in securing a 6-3 conservative majority on the Supreme Court.
McConnell's decision comes amid concerns about his health, with incidents last summer raising questions about his ability to meet the demands of his job.
As Republicans prepare to elect a new party leader, McConnell's departure may intensify conservative pressure in budget negotiations, particularly regarding potential spending deals with Democrats.
The upcoming leadership elections have implications for the party's stance on crucial issues leading up to November's elections for president, the House of Representatives and one-third of the Senate.
