Republican senators will gather behind closed doors Wednesday to decide who will replace longtime Senate leader Mitch McConnell and lead their new majority next year — a decision that could determine the future of the Senate,

Following the election, Republicans will control the Senate with a 53 to 47 majority, but one question remains -- who will become the new Senate majority leader? Outgoing leader Mitch McConnell will remain in Congress but will step aside as the longest serving party leader in history.

Later this week, GOP Senators will select a party leader for the chamber as Mitch McConnell steps down, the first time since 2007.