Trump Pushes for Quick Appointments; Elon Musk Endorses Candidate for Senate Leadership

Rick Scott

Elon Musk, a prominent businessman and ally of President-elect Donald Trump, endorsed Republican Senator Rick Scott for Senate majority leader on Sunday. Trump is pushing for a Senate leader who can support his agenda swiftly, as Republicans are set to hold at least 52 seats in the 100-member Senate after flipping Democratic seats in West Virginia, Ohio, and Montana in last week's election.

Current Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, who has led the party in the chamber since 2007, is not seeking re-election for the role. In a social media post on Sunday, Musk, a tech billionaire and recent Trump supporter, wrote, “Rick Scott for Senate Majority Leader!”

Trump has not endorsed a candidate in the majority leader race yet, but he emphasized that candidates must agree not to block temporary presidential appointments during Senate recesses. This would allow Trump to make quick appointments without requiring immediate Senate confirmation.

Scott Backs Trump’s Push for Change, Calls for Senate Reform Alongside Thune and Cornyn

Rick Scott, the wealthiest senator and a former healthcare executive representing Florida, voiced his support for Trump’s call, as did Senators John Thune and John Cornyn, also in the running for the post. In a Fox News interview on Sunday, Scott highlighted the need for the Senate to pursue real change, aligning with Trump’s promise to “be the change.”

If Republicans secure both chambers, Trump’s agenda on issues such as immigration, tax cuts, tariffs, and fiscal policy would likely gain momentum. Republican leadership elections are set for Wednesday, following the Senate's return from its recess. 

As of now, two Senate races in Pennsylvania and Arizona remain uncalled, while control of the House is still undecided. Republicans have secured 214 seats, just shy of the 218 needed for a majority. However, remaining seats in Western states may tip the balance as results continue to come in.