US Senate Republicans have chosen John Thune as their next leader. 

Shrugging off pressure from Donald Trump supporters to pick a president-elect loyalist, they elected the senator who has a close relationship with many of his fellow Republicans. 

The 63-year-old’s victory is a sign that the Senate could keep some degree of independence from Trump. 

Some of Trump’s loudest supporters have expressed concern that Mr Thune might not deliver on some of Trump’s campaign promises. 

He currently serves as the chamber’s number two Republican and will succeed 82-year-old Mitch McConnell. 

Republicans will hold at least 52 seats in the 100-seat Senate and are on track to retain their majority in the House of Representatives, with several races yet to be called.