Thread by @burgessev

McConnell actively sought to prevent his senators from challenging the election. Now that they are, he's not whipping anyone against it but has spoken to at least half the Senate GOP conference about the matter

Story with @marianne_levine

politico.com/news/2021/01/0…

@marianne_levine McConnell told senators on a recent conference call that “this is a very difficult decision for each one of you, you each have to make it yourselves,” recounted Sen. Cramer. “‘I've voted twice on declarations of war.’ And he said, ‘this is right up there.’"

@marianne_levine “He’s letting everybody reach their own conclusion here. That’s very much his leadership style on issues like this, is to not say much. I think he hopes we don’t have too many people vote to do this,” said one R senator

"I don't think he's enjoying it," deadpanned a second

@marianne_levine Objectors Daines and Tuberville say they haven't spoken to McConnell. After she was sworn in, asked Lummis what the leadership reaction has been: “A happy day for us. It’s been wonderful.”

Marshall: “Some of the greatest Super Bowl champions had a day of division.”

@marianne_levine While Trump is fighting his electoral loss, McConnell is shaping where his party stands before Ga.

McConnell simply doesn't criticize Trump but is steering the party away from him

- No $2,000 checks
- NDAA override of Trump's veto
- Most Senate Rs expected to certify election