Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune addressed the media in Washington, D.C., highlighting the Senate Republicans' commitment to their legislative agenda. Thune emphasized their focus on budget reconciliation, energy policy, military rebuilding, and border security.

During the press conference, Thune stated that recent developments within the Democratic Party have not deterred Republican efforts. "Last week’s vote – or, I should say, it’s the week before last week’s vote – not to shut the government down has seemed to create something of a civil war among the Democrats," he remarked.

Thune outlined ongoing priorities for Senate Republicans: "This week is getting the president’s people into place, continuing to process nominations so that the president has his team ready to go to work." He also mentioned efforts to reverse certain regulations from the Biden administration through the Congressional Review Act.

The central focus remains on budget reconciliation. Thune explained its significance: “And that end goal is coming up with a budget reconciliation bill in the end that extends the existing tax policy, which, if isn’t done, will lead to a $4.5 trillion tax increase at the end of this year; unlocking and restoring America’s energy dominance; rebuilding our military; and making sure that our border is secure.”

He asserted these issues align with what voters supported in November's elections: “Those are the issues that we believe need to be addressed in the budget reconciliation bill...”

Thune contrasted Republican goals with Democratic proposals: “But it draws a stark contrast with what the Democrats want to see – and that clearly is a $4.5 trillion tax increase at the end of the year...”

As discussions continue between party leaders and President Biden's team, Thune reaffirmed their dedication: “So we think that the work we’re doing is going to draw a clear contrast between us and the Democrats..."