McConnell looks to cement legacy as ‘Reagan Republican’ with crusade for Ukraine support

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., is planning to devote much of his energy in the remaining months of his term as Republican leader, as well as the next few years of his term, to ensuring Ukraine is supported as its war with Russia rages on.

"It may not be fashionable now, but I’m a Ronald Reagan Republican: peace through strength," the longtime Senate GOP leader said during a speech in Shelbyville, Kentucky, per local outlet the Kentucky Lantern.

McConnell has been a proponent of continued support for Ukraine, even after members of his party began to push back.

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"Mitch McConnell is a Reagan Republican through and through," said Republican strategist Doug Heye. Therefore, its unsurprising that he is "standing strong on those principles," he said.

But not everyone equates Ukraine support with republicanism in the image of former President Reagan. According to Republican strategist Matt Dole, "Reagan republicanism, or any label that is historical in nature, is not driven by one issue or one vote."

He posited that such labels have been used by some "as a way to encourage people to their side."

"I don't think a senator voting for or against aid to the Ukraine takes them closer or further away from the legacy of Ronald Reagan," he added.

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Speaking to a local radio station last week, McConnell said Ukraine and preventing Russia's advances would be "the main part of my focus in the coming years."

He said Ukraine's war presents "a worldwide problem for democracies."

"McConnell understands the long game that Russia