By Charles Switzer
10:45am PDT, May 1, 2025
Scott Jennings Contemplates Senate Run
Scott Jennings, a prominent conservative CNN pundit, is considering a run to replace the retiring Kentucky GOP Senator
Mitch McConnell,
The Daily Beast reported.
At an afterparty following the White House Correspondents' Dinner on Saturday, April 26, Jennings revealed his potential candidacy, stating, "If the president wants me, I'll run." He added, "If he wants somebody else, I'll support that candidate."
The remark is reportedly meant to highlight his respect for President
Donald Trump's influence over the GOP's decision-making process.
Here's a rundown of everything you need to know about the pundit's reported political ambitions.
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A Strategic Move for Jennings
Scott Jennings, 47, a seasoned political strategist with experience as an adviser to Mitch McConnell, has been vocal in his political career and gained recognition through his frequent CNN appearances.
He has notably become a go-to commentator on CNN's News Night With Abby Phillip over the past year. His strong stances and debates with liberal pundits have made him a popular figure, attracting praise from both Republican and Democratic circles alike.
While the idea of running for Senate is certainly real, sources close to Jennings insist that his candidacy hinges on Donald Trump's approval.
Support from Trump
Donald Trump has expressed support for Scott Jennings in a campaign-style rally, even joking about Jennings' possible Senate bid. "He defends me all the time on CNN, and he defends me really well, but he can't go too far because he'll get fired," Trump remarked, humorously adding that inviting Jennings on stage would mark the end of his CNN career. The endorsement from Trump holds significant weight in Kentucky's Republican landscape, where loyalty to the 45th and 47th president seems to remain a key political currency.
Opposition and Other Candidates
Scott Jennings is not the only one eyeing Mitch McConnell's Senate seat.
Former Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron announced his candidacy just minutes after McConnell's retirement news in February.
Additionally, Rep. Andy Barr joined the race last week, and businessman Nate Morris has also expressed interest. Morris, in particular, has taken shots at both Cameron and Barr on social media, calling them "puppets" for McConnell and accusing them of turning their backs on Kentucky conservatives.
Morris has been vocal in his criticism, saying, "I'm not gonna let Mitch McConnell dictate whether I run or not."
Reactions from the Political Sphere
The potential for Scott Jennings to run for Senate has garnered significant attention in the conservative media sphere. Conservative radio host Erick Erickson tweeted in February, "Could I nominate [Scott Jennings] for the United States Senate from the Commonwealth of Kentucky? He'd be a h*** of a McConnell replacement."
Jennings' ability to challenge liberal narratives on CNN has further solidified his appeal as a potential candidate who could represent the state's conservative base. However, the National Republican Senatorial Committee has declined to comment on whether Jennings will officially launch his bid for McConnell's seat.
While Donald Trump has not made any formal endorsements yet, Jennings' decision to run appears tied to Trump's political strategy, highlighting the influence the president continues to wield within the Republican Party.
