Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune addressed the Senate floor to discuss President Trump's vision for the nation and upcoming Cabinet nominee votes. Thune highlighted Lori Chavez-DeRemer, nominated for Secretary of Labor, praising her diverse background in public service and business.

Thune stated, "Ms. Chavez-DeRemer's mother would always tell her, 'when you know better, you do better.' And we need the Labor Department to do better than what we saw from the Biden administration."

He criticized the previous administration's mandates, including those related to COVID vaccines and independent contractor status. Thune emphasized Trump's commitment to working Americans and a shift from policies seen under President Biden.

Regarding border security, Thune noted Trump's early accomplishments: "There were approximately 8,450 encounters at our southern border during the month of February... a 25-year low." He stressed Republican support for additional funding to enhance border protection.

Addressing energy issues, Thune cited concerns over America's power supply and critiqued Biden's energy policies. He praised Trump’s efforts to reverse regulations on conventional energy development: "Fortunately, we're in a new era."

Thune also referenced tax relief as a priority under Trump: "We are hard at work laying the groundwork for permanently extending the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act this year."

He concluded with gratitude for Trump's leadership: "I'm grateful for President Trump's faith in America."