PREVIEW

John Cornyn Wants to Be the Senate’s Next GOP Leader. On Feb. 28, Mitch McConnell announced that he is stepping down as Senate Minority Leader. The next day, Sen. Cornyn threw hit hat into the ring to succeed McConnell, 'The Hill' reports. "I am asking my Republican colleagues to give me the opportunity to succeed Leader McConnell." "Throughout my time I’ve built a track record of listening to colleagues and seeking consensus, while leading the fight to stop bad policies that are harmful to our nation and the Conservative cause." The Republican from Texas went on to call the Senate "broken" and said he could perform a "major role" in fixing it. "From experience, I have learned what works in the Senate and what does not, and I am confident Senate Republicans can restore our institution to the essential role it serves in our constitutional republic." "We will improve communication, increase transparency, and ensure inclusion of every Member’s expertise and opinion." "We will restore the important role of Senate committees and reestablish the regular appropriations process, rather than lurch from one crisis to another." Sen. John Cornyn, via statement. While Cornyn is the first candidate to announce an official bid for the position. other senators that are expected to make a run for leader include John Thune and John Barrasso, 'The Hill' reports. THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT