Western South Dakota News

U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) recently addressed the Senate floor, reflecting on his summer activities across South Dakota. Thune emphasized the value of spending time at home, highlighting that the priorities of South Dakotans are his priorities in Washington, D.C.

“Mr. President, like many of our colleagues, I spend a lot of summer days on the road in my state,” Thune began. He noted that the extended summer recess allows him to travel extensively throughout South Dakota, meeting both familiar faces and new individuals.

Thune recounted various interactions during his travels. In Howard, he engaged with healthcare professionals about essential programs supporting rural healthcare. Homebuilders in Sioux Falls discussed challenges posed by what they perceive as overregulation from the Biden-Harris administration. At Dakotafest in Mitchell, agriculture producers expressed frustration over Congress's delay in passing an updated farm bill—a sentiment Thune shares and is actively working to address.

“Another extension is no substitute for the certainty an updated bill would give farmers and ranchers as they make plans for the future, and getting it done should be a priority,” Thune stated.

He also visited local officials in Leola and Eureka, explored developments at Black Hills State University, and toured South Dakota State’s nursing simulation center in Brookings. Additionally, he observed community efforts at the Liberty Center in Box Elder to support service members stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base.

Thune highlighted several local events he attended: Rapid City's annual Military Appreciation Barbecue, Fort Pierre’s Fourth of July Parade, and Murdo’s celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Pioneer Auto Show.

This summer was marked by notable achievements from South Dakota athletes. Taryn Kloth competed in beach volleyball at the Olympics, while Miles Krajewski made history by winning a silver medal in mixed doubles badminton at the Paralympics—the first American to do so. The Sioux Falls Little League All-Star Team participated in the Little League World Series and performed admirably.

Thune concluded by expressing pride in being a South Dakotan and representing his state: “The sunshine on the open prairie, the smell of Ponderosa pine, and the good people I meet along the way remind me how lucky I am to be a South Dakotan and what an honor it is to represent this special place in the U.S. Senate.”