Summary
Sen. Mitch McConnell announced he will not seek reelection in 2026, marking the end of his long career as a Republican leader.
The longest-serving Senate party leader, McConnell played a key role in shaping the Supreme Court, tax cuts, and major political battles but saw his influence wane amid Trump-era populism.
His departure signals a shift in the GOP, as a competitive race for his Kentucky Senate seat looms.
McConnell pledged to continue advocating for national defense and other priorities before retiring in January 2027.
Go die somewhere. Probably in the comfort you took away from millions of Americans. But I’m hoping it hurts as much as possible. I’m hoping that existential dread kicks into overdrive and all you feel is fear at the end.