McConnell Told Rick Scott He Was off Commerce Committee Through Text

SMitch McConnell, Republican-KY, is the enate minority leader One of his top intraparty rivals was removed From the Commerce Committee, the blow is delivered via text message.

McConnell pulled Sens. Rick Scott (R-FL). Mike Lee (R-UT) from their positions on the Commerce Committee, a decision that some conservatives say is an act of retribution after the pair sought to challenge the Kentucky Republican’s leadership. Scott ran unsuccessfully against McConnell to be the Senate minority leader. Lee supported McConnell’s bid.

RICK SCOTT CRIES POLICITICAL RETRIBUTION, AFTER THE SENATOR LOSES SPOT ON COMMERCE

“This is what happens when you challenge leadership,” Scott stated this in a Statement provided The Washington Examiner. “It was McConnell’s decision to remove someone who has actually run businesses and ran the third largest state from a committee I’ve served on for four years. You’ll have to ask him why.”

Scott and Lee were members of the Commerce Committee in the previous Congress. They helped to lead the panel that supervises regulation of consumer products, services, and the activities of many federal agencies. The pair of senators have long voiced opposition to McConnell’s leadership, forming a group known as the “Breakfast Club” This group openly complains to the GOP leadership.

Scott noted his challenge to McConnell’s Senate leadership position was likely what led to his ouster — a decision he found out about through a text message, According to The Hill. However, McConnell has maintained he was not offended by Scott’s challenge, eventually besting the Florida senator in a 37-10 vote.

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“I’m not in any way offended by having an opponent or having a few votes in opposition,” McConnell stated this shortly after winning the leadership election. “I’m pretty proud of 37 to 10.”

McConnell replaced Scott and Lee — as well as Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI), who voluntarily stepped down to join the Finance Committee — with freshman Sens. Ted Budd (NC), Eric Schmitt(MO) and J.D. Vance (OH).