Mitch McConnell

Elected US Senator from Kentucky

Won his first Senate race in a close election, beginning his long career in the U.S. Senate. He was relatively unknown nationally at this point but began building influence within Republican circles.

Became Senate Majority Whip

Elevated to Senate Majority Whip, the second-ranking Republican position. This marked his ascent into Senate leadership and increased his national prominence.

Senate Minority Leader

Became Senate Minority Leader after Republicans lost control. He proved highly effective at blocking Democratic legislation and became a major force in Washington politics.

Senate Majority Leader

Republicans won the Senate, and McConnell became Majority Leader. He wielded enormous power, most notably blocking President Obama's Supreme Court nominee Merrick Garland in 2016.

Confirmed Brett Kavanaugh

Successfully confirmed Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court despite intense opposition. This solidified his legacy as a master strategist who reshaped the federal judiciary.

Confirmed Amy Coney Barrett

Confirmed Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court just before the 2020 election, completing a 6-3 conservative majority. This cemented his status as one of the most consequential Senate leaders in modern history.

Stepped Down as Leader

Announced he would step down as Senate Republican leader after nearly two decades in leadership positions. He remained in the Senate, but his era of direct leadership influence came to an end.

Senior Senator and Influencer

Continues to serve as senior Senator from Kentucky, now in his 40th year in the Senate. While no longer in formal leadership, he remains one of the most powerful and recognized Republican figures in American politics, with a legacy defined by his judicial appointments and strategic mastery of Senate procedures.