President Donald Trump is intensifying his public attacks on Senate Majority Leader John Thune, but Senate Republicans are refusing to play along — leaving the White House isolated in what has become an increasingly public leadership feud.
Multiple GOP senators pushed back this week against Trump's criticism of Thune, telling reporters and party allies they back the South Dakota Republican and see no cause to move against him, according to reports reviewed by the Wail.
Trump has repeatedly questioned Thune's effectiveness as majority leader, pressing for what sources describe as sharper loyalty on key votes. Thune has not responded publicly to the latest round of attacks.
The standoff is more than a personality clash. With a packed legislative calendar ahead — including must-pass budget and spending measures — a fractured relationship between the White House and Senate leadership could stall Trump's agenda before Congress returns from recess.
Republican senators are expected to face continued pressure from the White House when the chamber reconvenes, with procedural votes on key Trump priorities anticipated as early as September.