Mitch McConnell Warns of 'Big Setback' For Republicans
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
Republican Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky warned fellow Senators and Republicans that Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican Senator, not seeking re-election after serving out his term is a "big setback" for Washington.
Newsweek reached out to Tillis' office via email Monday for comment.
Why It Matters
Tillis' announcement highlights ongoing ideological and leadership tensions within the Republican Party. Both Senator Tillis and Representative Don Bacon, a Nebraska Republican, have drawn criticism and isolation after challenging elements of President Donald Trump's policies.
Their decisions to step down occur just as Republicans consolidated power in both congressional chambers after the 2024 election—a period when the party would typically anticipate increased cohesion and influence. This sequence of retirements signals heightened intra-party rifts, amplifying debates about the future direction of Republican leadership amid the party's electoral resurgence.
Bacon formally announced his plan to retire on Monday, following numerous media outlets reporting his intent on Friday.
What To Know
Tillis announced his desire not to seek re-election in a post on X, formerly Twitter, over the weekend.
"It has been a blessing to go on a journey from living in a trailer park and making minimum wage as a young man to having the honor of serving as U.S. Senator for North Carolina," Tillis said in part in his statement.
"I am proud of my career in public service, including hard-fought victories like passing historic tax reform as North Carolina Speaker, and working in the Senate to help pass the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and confirm three conservative Supreme Court justices and counting," the North Carolina lawmaker added.
Tillis later continued: "As many of my colleagues have noticed over the last year, and at times even joked about, I haven't exactly been excited about running for another term. That is true since the choice is between spending another six years navigating the political theatre and partisan gridlock in Washington or spending that time with the love of my life Susan, our two children, three beautiful grandchildren, and the rest of our extended family back home. It's not a hard choice, and I will not be seeking re-election."
Tillis' announcement brought bipartisan reaction from establishment lawmakers like McConnell and Independent Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont.
McConnell posted to X on Monday, saying, ".@SenThomTillis is one of the most effective and collegial members that I have ever served with in the United States Senate."
"His announcement is a big setback for the Senate and the Republican Conference. I want to thank him for his service in this institution representing the people of North Carolina and our nation," McConnell said.
Tillis's departure could impact committee assignments and majority margins in a closely divided Senate, while Bacon's pending retirement has Democratic strategists eyeing possible congressional gains in upcoming election cycles.
Both races are expected to attract significant attention and resources as party leaders calculate risks of further moderate departures or primary challenges backed by Trump-aligned Republicans.
Tillis' announcement also comes amid Senate lawmakers ramping up to vote on the reconciliation bill, dubbed the "big, beautiful bill" by Trump, which Tillis has been outspoken against regarding Medicaid.
Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) can be seen listening during a Senate Judiciary Hearing on June 18, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Photo by)
Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) can be seen listening during a Senate Judiciary Hearing on June 18, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Photo by)
What People Are Saying
Sanders on X on Sunday: "I do not agree with N.C. Senator Thom Tillis on much. But he's right on this. Trump's Republican Party does not allow for independent thought. The Republican Party today is a cult. Either you do as Trump wants, or you're out. Pathetic."
Charlie Kirk, CEO and founder of conservative Turning Point USA, on X on Sunday: "Thom Tillis routinely fought to increase American intervention abroad while rejecting border security at home. He has also been a chief obstacle to the timely confirmation of President Trump's nominees.
"His retirement is a golden opportunity to make North Carolina's senators reflect the priorities of North Carolina's Republican voters."
What Happens Next
Senator Tillis's retirement will trigger a new Senate race in North Carolina as party leaders and prospective candidates announce intentions to run.
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