Thune seeks to move up in GOP leadership

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Sen. John Thune is seeking to move ahead in Senate leadership.

“At this time I am announcing my intention to seek the support of my Senate Republican colleagues to serve them as the next chairman of the Senate Republican Conference,” Thune, R-S.D., said Tuesday.

Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., announced Monday he will resign as chairman of the Senate Republican Conference.

That prompted Thune, the chairman of the Republican Policy Committee, to make a bid for the position, considered the No. 3 spot in Senate Republican leadership.

“America is at a crossroads with record deficits and crippling debt, high unemployment, and growing economic uncertainty,” Thune said.

“Now more than ever it is crucial for Republicans to communicate a clear vision to the American people,” he said. “The chairman of the Senate Republican Conference sits in a unique position to support Senate Republicans as we help shape the national conversation and put this country on a new path toward prosperity.”

Alexander, 71, is a former Tennessee governor and U.S. secretary of education. He ran for president in 1996 and 2000.

Thune praised his GOP colleague.

“I am thankful for the time I have had to work beside Senator Alexander at the leadership table and I am grateful that he will remain here in the Senate for years to come,” he said.

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