Mitch McConnell will step down as Senate minority leader in November

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell will step down as Republican leader in November.

McConnell, of Kentucky, announced his plans in an emotional speech on the Senate floor shortly after aides confirmed his plans to reporters. The move gives McConnell an opportunity to influence the process of selecting the next leader of his party in the Senate at a time of intense divisions within the Republican Party.

"This will be my last term as Republican leader of the Senate," McConnell said, his voice cracking. "I'm not going anywhere anytime soon, however. I will complete the job my colleagues have given me until we select a new leader in November and they take the helm next January."

He talked about waiting for a day when he would have total clarity about the end of his work.

"That day arrived today," McConnell said.

McConnell said he intends to serve out the rest of his Senate term, which ends in 2027.

"I still have enough gas in the tank to thoroughly disappoint my critics, and I intend to do so with all the enthusiasm which they have become accustomed," he joked.

The Kentucky Republican, 82, had faced questions about his health for several months. Most recently, he abruptly froze and seemed unable to speak during two news conferences, in July and August. In March of last year, hefell during a dinner event at a D.C. hotel and spent five days in the hospital. His office said he received treatment for a concussion and spent about a week in inpatient rehab to also address a "minor rib fracture."

Changes within the Senate GOP

McConnell's announcement comes at a time when the base of the Republican Party is increasingly rejecting his brand of conservatism. He has consistently clashed with former President Donald Trump — most