Mitch McConnell, the long-serving U.S. Senator from Kentucky, recently shared his views on the current geopolitical climate, describing it as the “most dangerous period since before World War II.” As he approaches retirement after decades of public service, McConnell articulated his concerns about the rising tide of autocratic regimes sweeping the globe. He went on to slam the Trump administration’s foreign policy—including trade tariffs and the current war in Ukraine.
At 83, McConnell is the antecedent legislative leader, first elected to the Senate in 1985. He’s done so while leading the Republican Party for an unprecedented 18 years. Earlier this year, he stepped down from his leadership role, paving the way for a new generation of Republican leaders. This year, he made the shocking move of announcing his intention to retire entirely from the Senate. This decision represents the end of an era for both Kentucky constituents and national politics.
Reflecting on his career, McConnell noted his record of success in Kentucky politics, claiming seven victories in statewide elections and nine wins within the Senate Republican conference. He emphasized that these accomplishments should be weighed against discussions of popularity, saying, “How do you judge popularity? Seven victories in Kentucky, nine victories in the [Senate Republican] conference.”
In those comments, McConnell drew parallels between today’s political climate and the isolationism of 1930s America. He had been making the point that history always repeats itself. He blasted the obsession with trade tariffs during Trump’s presidency, arguing that protectionist policies are a throwback to those same isolationist feelings. As a realist, McConnell hated to see the U.S. caught off guard and unprepared for the global challenge that these ascendant autocrats presented.
I believe this is the most dangerous time since before World War II,” he said. “There’s certain similarities right now to the ’30s.” His comments reflect an understanding that increased watchfulness and readiness are needed in the face of a more hostile global order today than ever before.
The senator knocked the narrative that Americans should not support Ukraine, as Russia’s war of destruction, launched on February 24, 2022, continues. He cautioned that if the international community doesn’t do more and do it better to support Ukraine, the consequences for global stability would be severe. “With regard to Ukraine, what we need to do is avoid the headline at the end of the war, ‘Russia wins, America loses.’ It has huge worldwide implications,” he asserted.
Despite his critical stance on certain policies, McConnell expressed pride in his achievements, particularly the 2004 Kentucky tobacco buyout, which compensated farmers for transitioning away from tobacco crops. He stressed that nearly one dozen of the dollars sent to Ukraine are being reinvested right back into the US. This smart reinvestment has been a huge boon to states like Kentucky.
In reflecting on leadership roles and responsibilities, McConnell has often adhered to a principle established by Ronald Reagan: “Do not speak ill of another Republican.” Though indeed, he has had his share of issues keeping the intra-party coalition together during his time in office. “These suggestions about who’s popular and who isn’t irritate the hell out of me,” he remarked. “When you get into the leadership position, you get beat up.”
As he prepares to step away from politics, McConnell expressed a desire for his legacy to be one of positive impact. “I would like everybody to be able to say, you know, I actually had an impact in a positive way on the country.”
While he has been a staunch supporter of former President Trump, McConnell’s comments indicate a growing concern over Trump’s policies and their potential repercussions. A recent statement from Nate Morris encapsulated this sentiment: “I’m a Trump guy, not a McConnell boy.”