Uncertainty about Sen. John McCain’s future has set off a flurry of hushed conversations and concern in the Republican Party about a possible vacancy that could make it harder for the GOP to hold its Senate majority.
As the Arizona Republican battles brain cancer, party leaders are contemplating the unusual prospect of defending two Senate seats in the state this year – something they are already doing in Mississippi as they seek to improve on their 51-49 advantage in the midterm elections.
McCain’s health has been shrouded in secrecy, leading many Republicans to privately wonder whether he will remain in office beyond May 30.