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◆ Mixed look for ThuneImmigrationElections / Campaigns

Is Donald Trump now the GOP's biggest obstacle to keeping the Senate?

Thune is working to protect vulnerable Republican seats as Trump’s actions complicate the party’s reelection efforts.

Is Donald Trump now the GOP's biggest obstacle to keeping the Senate?
Image · The Independent

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Outlet credibilityThe Independent77/100 HIGH
This article1 analysis · Oct 11, 2026
tl;dr

The article argues that Donald Trump’s actions are complicating Republicans’ efforts to retain the Senate, including his refusal to back several incumbents and his offer to support a potential challenger to Bill Cassidy. It also describes Senate Majority Leader John Thune’s efforts to protect vulnerable seats.

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John Thune R · SD · SEN

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John Thune
R · SD · SEN

Senate Majority Leader working to protect Republican Senate seats

PRIMARY SUBJECT
Donald Trump
R · President of the United States

President whose actions and endorsements are described as complicating Republican Senate races

Trump's version of this story ↗

Democratic Senate candidate cited as viewing Paxton as Democrats’ strongest potential opponent

Texas representative cited as viewing Paxton as Democrats’ strongest potential opponent

Susan M. Collins
R · ME · SEN

Maine senator whose reelection prospects may be affected by immigration enforcement activity in the state

Mike Johnson
R · LA-4

Speaker of the House, whom House Republicans are described as openly criticized

Republican Senate candidate in North Carolina

Bill Cassidy
R · LA · SEN

Louisiana senator facing a potential primary challenge from Julia Letlow

Julia Letlow
R · LA-5

Louisiana representative reportedly preparing a possible Senate primary bid against Bill Cassidy

Ken Paxton
R · TX

Texas attorney general and Republican Senate candidate challenging Cornyn

Democratic Senate candidate in Maine

Roy Cooper
D · NC

North Carolina governor and Senate candidate

Maine governor and Democratic Senate candidate

John Cornyn
R · TX · SEN

Texas senator facing a primary challenge from Ken Paxton

Part of a bigger story

2 OUTLETS
Trump Endorses Julia Letlow Over Bill Cassidy in Louisiana Senate Race

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