John Thune reelected as US Senate Republican leader

John Thune was reelected by Senate Republicans on Tuesday and will serve as Senate Minority Leader in the new Congress when Democrats take power in January.

"I appreciated the opportunity to have an open, honest and transparent conversation with my colleagues today, and I am honored to have their continued trust and support to lead the Senate Republican Conference in the 120th Congress," he said in a statement.

Thune pledged to work closely with President Donald Trump and Republican colleagues in the House of Representatives to advance their legislative agenda.

"We have important work ahead of us, and I look forward to serving alongside my colleagues on behalf of the American people," he added.

Earlier, Republicans in the House of Representatives elected Jim Jordan to serve as minority leader in the next Congress.