Susan Collins Poised to Lead Senate Appropriations Committee as Mitch McConnell Takes New Roles

McConnell steps down as Senate GOP leader, assuming key subcommittee and committee roles while Collins prepares to oversee federal discretionary spending.

Sen. Mitch McConnell, stepping down as Senate Republican leader after 18 years, will chair the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense and the Senate Rules Committee.
McConnell emphasized the importance of bolstering U.S. military strength in response to global threats, aligning with his long-standing defense hawk stance.
Sen. Susan Collins, currently vice chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, is expected to assume its chairmanship, overseeing federal discretionary spending decisions.
McConnell’s foreign policy views, particularly his support for aiding Ukraine, may contrast with President-elect Donald Trump’s ‘America First’ approach.
The new Republican Senate majority, led by incoming Majority Leader John Thune, aims to address national security, spending priorities, and Senate procedural reforms.

Portland Press Herald