Rick Scott Reacts To Losing Race To Be Senate Leader

South Dakota's John Thune is the new leader of Senate Republicans.

Thune and Texas' John Cornyn faced off in a secret vote after Florida's Rick Scott was eliminated in the first round ballot for Senate Majority Leader.

Thune will replace Kentucky's Mitch McConnell, who is stepping aside as Republican leader.

Shortly after the voting, Scott issued a statement: “I may have lost the vote, but I am optimistic. I ran for leader with one mission: to fundamentally change how the Senate operates and upend the status quo so we can actually start representing the voters who put us here. When I announced, I said that we are in a moment where we need dramatic change. The voters confirmed that last week when they elected President Trump and Republicans took the majority in both chambers of Congress with a clear mandate.

"I want to thank my friend President Trump and the support I received from so many Americans from every corner of our country. I am truly humbled by the millions of Americans who supported my run, and the many patriots who made their voices heard to demand change. While it isn’t the result we hoped for, I will do everything possible to make sure John Thune is successful in accomplishing President Trump's agenda. I would also like to thank John Cornyn for running a great race."