Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senator John Thune, a Republican from South Dakota, appeared on Fox News with Bret Baier following his election as majority leader for the 119th Congress. During the interview, Thune discussed several topics, including President Trump's nominees and government efficiency.

Regarding the nomination process under President Trump, Thune stated: “Well, I mean, these are exciting times, obviously, right? The president got a big mandate." He emphasized the Senate's role in confirming executive branch nominations: "All these people have a process that they have to go through. All these nominees are – it's, you know, advise and consent. That's the Senate's constitutional role when it comes to confirmation of nominations to the executive branch of the government."

Thune also addressed concerns about government efficiency. He noted a low percentage of federal workers returning to offices and questioned the necessity of having numerous agencies located in Washington D.C.: “And frankly, for that matter, why do we have all these agencies and departments here in Washington, D.C.? They could be other places around the country because people aren't showing up at the office anyway."

He expressed hope for bipartisan cooperation with Democrats following recent election results: “I would hope so. I would think that the election results were an incredible repudiation of where they've been taking the country.”

The interview provided insight into Thune's perspectives as he steps into his new leadership role.