Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has voiced strong criticism of the current Republican Party in an upcoming biography, stating that the “MAGA movement” is “completely wrong.” He argues that Ronald Reagan, the founder of modern conservatism, “wouldn’t recognize” the party as it exists today, particularly due to the influence of former President Donald Trump.
In an excerpt from the biography, McConnell highlighted Trump’s significant impact on the party’s direction. “Trump has done significant damage to our party’s image and our competitiveness,” he told author Michael Tackett of The Price of Power, a sentiment shared by many within the GOP. McConnell believes Trump has tapped into the frustrations of those feeling left behind, often blaming others’ successes on perceived unfair advantages.
McConnell’s Sharp Critique of Trump
McConnell did not hold back in his assessment of Trump, describing his behavior after the 2020 election as “erratic.” He pointed out that “about half the Republicans in the country believe whatever he says,” showcasing the polarization within the party. While McConnell voted to acquit Trump during the second impeachment trial, he admitted to Tackett that he had considered supporting a conviction at times.
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In his candid remarks, McConnell referred to Trump using unflattering terms such as “sleazeball” and “narcissist,” asserting that he is “not very smart.” However, he expressed more concern over Trump’s derogatory remarks about his wife, Elaine Chao, which included a derogatory nickname, “Coco Chow,” that Trump used in a 2022 post. McConnell stated that these comments “deeply disturbed” Chao.
Reaction to the Capitol Riot
After the Capitol attack on January 6, 2021, McConnell showed empathy for his staff, asserting, “You are my responsibility, and I hate that you had to go through this.” He described the rioters as “narcissistic,” highlighting their actions as evidence of Trump’s “complete unfitness for office.”
Despite his strong criticisms, McConnell downplayed his comments in a statement to CNN, suggesting that his views on Trump are less severe compared to those of others. He has continued to maintain a relationship with Trump, endorsing him and even meeting with him in June during a gathering with Senate Republicans.
Criticism of Fellow Senators
McConnell’s critique extended beyond Trump, targeting Senator Rick Scott, who led the Senate Republicans’ campaign committee in 2022. McConnell called Scott’s controversial policy plan an “ill-fated effort” to distract from his own actions during the midterms, indicating a divide within the party.
As he nears the end of his term as Senate GOP leader, McConnell reflected on his legacy, particularly his role in reshaping the Supreme Court by confirming three conservative justices. While he acknowledged the success of these confirmations, he expressed concern over Justice Clarence Thomas’s “questionable judgment” in accepting trips from a GOP donor.
Support for Investigations
McConnell has shown support for the ongoing investigation by special counsel Jack Smith into Trump’s actions surrounding the 2020 election and the Capitol insurrection. “If what he did wasn’t indictable, I’m not sure what is,” McConnell stated, hoping for accountability for Trump’s actions.
