U.S. Senate Republicans have unanimously voted to give Mitch McConnell of Kentucky a fourth term as leader.McConnell's last term was marked by staunch opposition to President Barack Obama and efforts to give the GOP a majority in the chamber. The latter didn't happen, but all signs indicate McConnell will continue the former. He recently stated that any of the president's plans to increase government revenue by raising taxes on the wealthy will be “non-starters” in the chamber.In a statement, McConnell says “We have an energized leadership team that is committed to finding solutions to the critical issues facing our country. I will also use my leadership post to work on behalf of all Kentuckians to ensure they have a strong voice in the Nation’s Capital.”The most pressing issue of the moment for the White House and Congress is the fiscal cliff, with all sides seeking to cut spending and debt in order to avoid much deeper automatic cuts.
McConnell will also be instrumental in leading his party through the approval process of key cabinet and diplomatic appointments in the coming months.