Senator John Thune (R-SD) is poised to take over as the top Republican in the Senate in 2025, and his allies are being strategically positioned within the Senate Leadership Fund (SLF), a key fundraising group for Senate Republicans. This shift marks a significant change in leadership for the SLF, which was established and cultivated under the guidance of outgoing Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY).

Former Colorado Senator Cory Gardner will assume the role of SLF board chair and is anticipated to play a crucial role in selecting a successor for SLF President and CEO Steven Law, who recently announced his departure. Key figures in Thune's political network, Johnny DeStefano and Paula Dukes, are also expected to contribute to the search for new leadership.

DeStefano praised Gardner's experience, emphasizing his understanding of campaign dynamics and his ability to collaborate effectively with former President Trump. This transition represents the first major leadership change for the SLF since its inception under McConnell. It raises questions about how the organization will function under new leadership and in the context of a changing political landscape.

McConnell built a substantial fundraising network for Senate Republicans during his tenure. While Thune has demonstrated strong fundraising abilities this cycle, it remains to be seen if he can maintain this level of financial support as the new leader.

The SLF and its affiliated group, One Nation, have collectively raised a staggering $2.3 billion over the past ten years, including $400 million in the 2022 Senate cycle and $420 million in the recent 2024 cycle. Thune's team will face the challenge of sustaining this level of fundraising or adapting their strategies if they are unable to replicate McConnell's success in securing financial resources.