Amid speculation over whether Sen. Patty Murray will challenge Sen. Richard J. Durbin for minority whip in the 115th Congress, Minority Leader Harry Reid brushed aside the issue and pivoted to praising the Senate leadership team.

“Leadership positions … will be determined after the first of the year — toward the end of next year,” Reid said. “I’m so happy, proud of, in admiration of my three leaders that have been with me during basically my entire tenure. There’s never been a better leadership team in the history of the country as far as leading the caucus.”

Reid has endorsed Sen. Charles E. Schumer to succeed him as the Senate’s Democratic leader.