Western South Dakota News

WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) addressed the Senate floor today, criticizing Senate Democrats' strategy to force votes on bills that he argues are intended to score political points rather than become law. He specifically mentioned a bill that he claims threatens Americans’ conscience rights.

Thune suggested that if Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer were genuinely interested in passing legislation, he would permit a vote on Sen. Joni Ernst’s (R-Iowa) pro-contraception bill, which Thune believes could garner bipartisan support.

"Later today we will take up another bill intended to provide a talking point for Democrat candidates – and, the Democrat leader hopes, put Republicans in a tight spot," Thune stated. "But if he thinks to see Republicans quaking in their boots over being asked to take these votes, he should think again."

He further criticized the proposed legislation for purportedly funneling money to Planned Parenthood and undermining conscience protections for healthcare providers. "The bill specifically targets the Religious Freedom Restoration Act," said Thune.

Thune expressed concern over what he perceives as Democrats' selective support for religious freedoms: "Apparently Americans are free to live out their deeply held moral and religious beliefs – when they don’t conflict with Democrats’ policy positions."

Highlighting previous Democratic actions, Thune argued that recent border legislation was another example of politicking: "Three years of national security crisis were not wiped out by a show vote intended to provide electoral cover to Democrats."

Thune concluded his remarks by predicting more such political maneuvers throughout the summer: "Look for this to be the summer of show votes here in the Senate."

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