Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) recently addressed the Senate floor, highlighting what he perceives as hypocrisy among Democrats regarding the filibuster. Thune's remarks were in response to an article by the Washington Examiner that noted Democrats have utilized the filibuster three times in the new Congress.

Thune criticized Democrats for using a tactic they previously sought to abolish, stating, "The party that mere months ago, literally, was gleefully making plans to destroy the filibuster is now using the filibuster left and right." He further remarked on their approach: "For Democrats it’s ‘one rule for me, another for thee.’"

Thune detailed three specific bills that were filibustered by Democrats: The Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, The Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act (ICC sanctions bill), and The Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act.

Regarding The Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, Thune expressed disbelief at its opposition: "Every Democrat in the Senate – every Democrat, without exception – voted against this bill." He described this stance as "morally bankrupt."

On The ICC sanctions bill, Thune argued it aimed to protect U.S. citizens from International Criminal Court actions. He questioned Democratic motives: "I’m not sure if it was anti-Israel animus... or if they’re simply too beholden to Big Tech."

Lastly, Thune discussed The Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act. He cited a United Nations report indicating adverse effects on female athletes due to competition with biological males: "Over 600 female athletes in more than 400 competitions have lost more than 890 medals in 29 different sports."

Thune concluded by criticizing Democrats' priorities and adherence to what he described as extreme ideologies: "Today... has become a party willing to sacrifice born human beings to abortion extremism and equality for women and girls on the altar of transgender ideology."