Western South Dakota News

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator John Thune (R-S.D.) addressed the Senate floor on June 4, 2024, criticizing President Biden's recent immigration executive order. Thune argued that the order is an attempt to obscure what he described as failed policies contributing to a worsening situation at the southern border.

Thune highlighted that President Biden has not taken substantial action on border security despite overseeing three years of record-breaking illegal immigration. He condemned the administration's recent move to grant de facto amnesty to hundreds of thousands whose asylum cases have been closed without a decision.

In his prepared remarks, Thune stated, “Mr. President, a couple of weeks ago, at a White House press briefing, the president’s press secretary was asked why the president isn’t doing anything on the border, given the fact that he has the authority to act unilaterally.” He continued by quoting the press secretary: “‘But why should he have to do it unilaterally?’”

Thune criticized this stance as typical of an administration seeking to avoid responsibility for what he termed a self-created crisis. He argued that as president, Biden bears special responsibility for national security and has the authority to implement measures securing the nation's borders.

The senator pointed out that illegal immigration surged following Biden’s dismantling of his predecessor’s border security policies and has persisted throughout his term. "The president has presided over not one, not two, but three successive years of record-breaking illegal immigration," said Thune.

He also raised concerns about "gotaways" – individuals seen by Border Patrol but not apprehended – which pose significant national security risks according to U.S. Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens and FBI Director Christopher Wray.

Thune accused President Biden of prioritizing political interests over national security by delaying action until it became politically expedient with upcoming elections. He questioned whether any announced measures would involve real reforms or be sustained beyond election cycles.

“Given his record so far,” concluded Thune skeptically, “I’m not holding my breath.”