Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) is seeking another two years as the Senate GOP's No. 2 leader, telling colleagues in a letter Monday that Republicans must draw a "sharp, principled contrast" with the incoming Democratic majority after last week's sweeping Election Day losses. Barrasso, who currently serves as Senate GOP whip, is expected to run unopposed in Tuesday's leadership election. But his pitch comes as Senate Republicans are openly grappling with how to move forward after losing control of the Senate last week. In the letter to colleagues, Barrasso acknowledged the GOP had a "difficult night" last Tuesday and said Republicans "have both an obligation and an opportunity to demonstrate that we heard the unmistakable message voters sent." "As the opposition party in the Senate, we must be equally clear about what we stand for and what we will fight against," Barrasso wrote. "We need to draw sharp, principled contrast with the left-wing Majority." Barrasso also warned that while "bipartisan accomplishments matter," that "bipartisanship cannot come at the expense of our principles." The Wyoming senator's bid for another term as whip comes amid a push by a group of conservative senators led by Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson to delay the leadership elections. Johnson has requested a conference meeting to discuss the request Tuesday morning. Barrasso did not address the calls for a delay in his letter, but he argued that Senate Republicans will be more effective over the next two years if they are united. "Our effectiveness will depend on our ability to work together, make tough decisions, and communicate openly," Barrasso said. "Every Senator deserves to be heard. Every concern deserves consideration. We will not agree on everything, but we remain united in our purpose." Barring a broader mutiny that few Republicans expect, Sen. John Thune of South Dakota is expected to be reelected as top GOP leader later in the day. The leadership elections come as Republicans prepare to become the minority party in January, with Democrats set to take control of both chambers of Congress. The GOP is still reeling from last week's losses, which have sparked a broader debate within the party about its direction and messaging. Barrasso's letter signals that he intends to position Senate Republicans as a unified opposition force, drawing clear distinctions with Democrats on policy while still leaving the door open to bipartisan work when it aligns with conservative principles. "We remain united in our purpose," Barrasso wrote, a phrase that will be tested as the party navigates its new role in the minority.