Sen. Mitch McConnell became the longest-serving party leader in the 234-year history of the Senate on Tuesday when the new Congress took office.
Mr. McConnell, Kentucky Republican, surpassed the 16-year record set by former Senate Democratic leader Mike Mansfield of Montana. Mr. Mansfield still holds the record as the longest-serving majority leader, from 1961 to 1977.
“Designated party floor leaders have been a feature of the Senate for more than 100 years and no two have done the job exactly alike,” said Mr. McConnell, 80.
He said he was inspired by Mr. Mansfield’s tenure as well as that of other Senate leaders in both parties.