We will have a unique opportunity to restructure our conference leadership team this fall. As we approach that window, we can choose to either (1) further democratize the way we do business and return power back to individual members, or (2) further consolidate power in the Leader and weaken the ability of individual members to fully exercise their rights and duties as United States senators.
Over the weekend, Thom Tillis sent a letter comparing Democrat conference governance to Republican conference governance, including several suggested changes to the powers of the Leader. Thom should be commended for his thoughtful analysis. This is, indeed, helpful food for thought.
In determining how our conference should operate, we should consider adopting two guidelines. First, we must play to our strengths as Republicans. And second, we should seek to maximize the Senate’s distinctions from the House.