Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune addressed the press in Washington, discussing the Republican Party's intentions to counteract what they perceive as restrictive energy regulations implemented by the Biden administration. Thune emphasized the significant impact of energy costs on various aspects of daily life and the economy.

"The price of pretty much everything that you buy is affected by the cost of energy," Thune stated, highlighting how energy influences transportation, heating, and grocery costs. He pointed out that energy plays a crucial role in inflation experienced over recent years.

Thune criticized Democratic policies, claiming they tend to tax and regulate sectors they disfavor while mandating others, such as electric vehicles. He argued for an "all-of-the-above" energy strategy aimed at making America energy dominant.

"This week, we’re going to be focusing on trying to drive down the cost of energy in this country," he said, noting a 30 percent increase in energy costs under President Biden's tenure. Thune mentioned plans to introduce Congressional Review Act resolutions with Senators Kennedy and Hoeven to address these issues.

He contrasted Republican efforts with Democratic policies from the past four years and reiterated a commitment to expanding domestic energy production. "We’re going to be doing everything we can to open up energy production in this country," he concluded.