Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) criticized Senate Republican leadership, accusing them of secrecy, lies, and broken promises that resulted in what he termed a historic pro-migration border surrender.
Lee called for Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) to be replaced, expressing frustration with the lack of transparency during negotiations on critical issues.
In a post on social media platform X, Lee outlined the Senate Republican leadership’s playbook, alleging a pattern of secrecy and manipulation. He highlighted the failure to share details of the negotiated bill while simultaneously insisting that support was essential. Lee described the situation as a “disqualifying betrayal” and called for McConnell’s replacement.
McConnell delegated the representation of Republican negotiations to Senator James Lankford (R-OK), but Majority Leader Chuck Schumer revealed that McConnell was the decision-maker for Republicans. Schumer’s acknowledgment raised eyebrows, considering the history of collaboration between Schumer and McConnell on various issues, such as budget-related matters and taxpayer subsidization of Ukraine’s war efforts.
Although not explicitly naming McConnell, Lee questioned the loyalty of the leadership, suggesting a potential misalignment with the interests of the Republican conference.
He posed a rhetorical question, asking whether, in a similar situation with a lawyer, agent, or employee who botched a deal, one would immediately terminate their services. Lee’s critique reflects internal tensions within the Republican party regarding border policies and aid packages, adding complexity to the leadership dynamics.