Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senator John Thune from South Dakota addressed the Senate floor regarding the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), highlighting its significance for American national security and specifically for Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota. The NDAA, which recently passed in the House, is expected to be taken up by the Senate soon.

Thune criticized the delay in bringing the bill to the Senate floor, stating, "The Senate Armed Services Committee passed its version of the bill six months ago... But Leader Schumer never bothered to bring the Senate bill to the floor." He emphasized that under a new Republican majority next year, such delays would not occur.

Thune stressed the importance of passing this legislation amid global instability, citing threats from Iran-backed groups, China's actions in the Indo-Pacific region, Russia's war on Ukraine, and other international tensions. He stated that "the United States military stands guard against these threats and countless others."

He acknowledged shortcomings in U.S. military readiness compared to adversaries like China and noted issues such as inadequate munitions supply and aging infrastructure. However, he expressed satisfaction with certain provisions of this year's NDAA that address these challenges.

While disappointed by some omissions in funding increases proposed by Senator Wicker, Thune highlighted positive aspects of the bill: upgrades in advanced technologies like hypersonics and missile defense; expansion of Navy shipbuilding; support for allies Israel and Taiwan; pay raises for troops; and full funding for Ellsworth's B-21 mission.

Reflecting on his efforts to save Ellsworth Air Force Base from closure early in his Senate career, Thune praised its current status as an asset to national defense. He reiterated his commitment to prioritizing national security through strong military investment.