Trump Reportedly Dismisses Rick Scott’s Bid for Senate GOP Leadership as ‘Not Serious’

Florida Senator Rick Scott’s aspirations to become the next Republican Senate leader have reportedly been dismissed by former President Donald Trump, who is said to have privately told allies that Scott’s bid for the position is “not serious.” According to new reports, Trump’s apparent lack of enthusiasm for Scott’s potential leadership has stirred speculation about the influence his endorsement might hold as GOP senators prepare to select their new leader on November 13.

Scott, along with Senators John Thune (R-SD) and John Cornyn (R-TX), is considered a possible successor to current Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell. With the Senate’s top Republican position up for grabs, each candidate’s standing in the race could be significantly affected by Trump’s backing. However, despite reports of Trump’s private remarks dismissing Scott, a senior Trump campaign official contested these claims, telling Axios that “the president-elect hasn’t weighed in on the leadership race and anyone who says differently is wrong.”

While Trump’s endorsement remains officially undecided, sources close to him are said to be advocating for Scott, including right-wing influencer Laura Loomer and Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson, who have encouraged Trump to support the Florida senator. Yet, despite these recommendations, Trump’s hesitations suggest he may be leaning toward other potential candidates.

The two other main contenders, Thune and Cornyn, are expected to be the frontrunners as GOP senators cast their votes in a private ballot. Capitol insiders reportedly view Thune as the more likely choice, although Cornyn has gathered momentum with a pitch centered on uniting the GOP under a similar agenda to Trump’s first term. In an appeal to voters, Cornyn spoke to Fox News on Monday, noting, “It was a very successful four years, and as I’ve told President Trump I’m interested in getting the band back together again.”

This appeal to Trump’s legacy has drawn attention, particularly as Cornyn seeks to bridge factions within the party by associating himself with the former president’s accomplishments. If Trump decides to back either Thune or Cornyn, his endorsement could solidify the chosen candidate’s position, but his apparent indecision has left the race open.

Thune, with his years of Senate experience and respected standing among his colleagues, is viewed by some as a stable choice to lead the party through the coming legislative challenges. Cornyn, meanwhile, has positioned himself as a staunch Trump ally willing to continue the policy trajectory set during Trump’s term.

For now, the internal race for Senate GOP leader continues to unfold amid speculation about Trump’s ultimate choice. Given the former president’s influence within the party, his backing could be pivotal for any candidate hoping to secure the top leadership position. Trump’s reported lack of enthusiasm for Scott has introduced an unexpected twist to the race, raising questions about the former president’s vision for the future direction of Senate Republicans.

As the November 13 vote approaches, GOP senators face a choice between experienced figures who bring varying degrees of loyalty to Trump’s policies and differing visions for the party’s legislative priorities. Whether Trump’s rumored dismissal of Scott’s bid is indicative of his eventual choice remains to be seen, but his influence will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the outcome.