Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune addressed the Senate, outlining the agenda for the upcoming days, which includes considering two nominees for key cabinet positions. Kristi Noem has been nominated to serve as Secretary of Homeland Security, while Pete Hegseth is the nominee for Secretary of Defense.

Thune highlighted Noem's qualifications, stating: "A former House member and current governor of the great state of South Dakota, Kristi brings both experience and commitment to her new role." He emphasized the challenges facing the Department of Homeland Security, particularly regarding border security. "Four years of record-breaking illegal immigration at our southern border has left our country vulnerable to a whole host of security concerns," Thune remarked. He asserted that addressing these issues is a priority for President Trump and Republicans.

Regarding Hegseth's nomination, Thune noted his military background: "A veteran of the Army National Guard who served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, Mr. Hegseth will bring a warrior’s perspective to the role of defense secretary." Thune expressed confidence in Hegseth's ability to refocus the Pentagon on its core mission: "Gone will be the days of woke distractions. The Pentagon’s focus will be on warfighting."

Thune concluded by reiterating his commitment to expedite the confirmation process for President Trump's team: "I will continue to ensure that the Senate works as quickly as possible to get President Trump’s team in place."