re: If RGB retires or passes, will we have a nomination and vote prior to

As much as the Democrats will scream bloody murder and call him a hypocrite, Mitch has actually been consistent on this.

Mitch's Rule: When election season has started, and the Office of the President and the Senate are held by opposing parties, then the voters should get to decide.

Because the Presidency and the Senate are held by the same party, then the nomination will go forward.