How GOP, Dem senators are using 2024 campaign trail to lobby for conference influence

Republican and Democrat senators have been out on the 2024 campaign trail in full force ahead of critical elections, including those who are not seeking office themselves this cycle. 

As the GOP looks to retake the majority in the Senate, leader candidates Senate Minority Whip John Thune, R-S.D., and Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, have not been the only ones lending a helping hand to candidates. 

Sens. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, Tom Cotton, R-Ark., Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Tim Scott, R-S.C., and Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., are among those who have used the congressional recess to campaign with other Republicans. 

Both Ernst and Cotton are notably running to be the next Republican conference chair. 

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Senate Republican Conference Chairman John Barrasso, R-Wyo., has also hit the trail often, even as he vies for re-election in a noncompetitive Wyoming race. He is running unopposed to replace Thune as Republican whip. 

"No candidate ever forgets the help they receive in their moment of need, and any senator looking to build relationships is smart to lend a hand on the campaign trail. And all of your existing colleagues appreciate when you're giving up your time to earn a majority," said former top aide to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., John Ashbrook, a Republican strategist.