In a significant political development, Republican Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming has publicly announced his endorsement of former President Donald Trump’s latest presidential campaign. This makes Barrasso the highest-ranking GOP senator to throw his support behind Trump’s bid for the White House.
“We need a strong republican conservative House and Senate and we need Donald Trump back in the White House, and that’s why tonight I am endorsing Donald Trump for president of the United States,” Barrasso declared on Fox News’ “Hannity.”
Barrasso, the third-ranking member of the Republican Senate leadership, joins the entirety of the House GOP leadership in endorsing Trump’s reelection campaign. This public endorsement comes just days before the crucial Iowa caucuses.
Trump expressed his gratitude to Barrasso for his endorsement in a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Tuesday night.
“Thank you to the GREAT Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming for such a powerful Endorsement, delivered beautifully tonight on the Sean Hannity Show. To know John is to both like and respect him, a truly extraordinary man. THANK YOU JOHN!!!” Trump posted.
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has yet to declare his stance in the race, while Senate GOP Whip John Thune had previously supported South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott before he withdrew his candidacy. Barrasso, who is up for reelection this fall, is considered a potential successor to McConnell, along with Thune and Texas Sen. John Cornyn.
Despite Trump’s continued lead in the Republican presidential primary, recent polls indicate a surge in support for Nikki Haley, particularly in New Hampshire. A new CNN survey shows Trump’s lead over Haley has reduced to single digits. In response, Trump’s team has begun to focus its efforts on his former UN ambassador in an attempt to curb her recent momentum before the first votes are cast next week.
This story has been updated with additional details. CNN’s Alayna Treene contributed to this report.