Thune Emerges as Key GOP Senate Dealmaker, Breaking Logjam on Spending Bill and Positioning Himself for Future Leadership Role

Thune is positioning himself as a future Senate Republican leader, competing with Cornyn and Barrasso.

Thune broke a logjam this week, getting GOP senators to drop holds on a stalled spending package.

Thune warned that holds were gumming up the process and risking an omnibus bill.

Thune got Hawley's hold lifted by promising a vote on his credit card rate cap bill.

Thune is taking a bigger role while McConnell recovers, showcasing his influence over strategy.