Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune recently appeared on Newsmax with Greta Van Susteren, where he discussed various legislative issues, particularly focusing on budget reconciliation. Thune emphasized the importance of the budget resolution as a foundational step, stating, “There are a whole range of issues that we’re trying to address, but the budget resolution is the first step.” He highlighted the dual responsibility of the House and Senate to pass the same budget resolution and explained its role in paving the way for budget reconciliation, which he described as where "the really hard work gets done."

Thune outlined several key goals, including preventing a $4.5 trillion tax increase and tackling energy policy. He elaborated, "We want to make sure that the border is secure, we’ve got funding in there to do that. And we want to rebuild our military so that the United States is… able to defend ourselves and protect American interests around the world." Thune expressed optimism about acting on the budget resolution within the next couple of weeks.

Regarding the permanency of President Trump’s tax cuts, Thune stressed, “If we don’t get it done, then… at the end of year, you are going to have the taxes going up on working families across this country.” He pointed out potential consequences, such as reductions in the Child Tax Credit and the standard deduction.

Thune addressed entitlement benefits, noting that “Social Security is not eligible for consideration in budget reconciliation by law.” He emphasized potential Medicaid reforms to improve efficiency without harming beneficiaries, mentioning the prospect of work requirements. Thune argued for bipartisan support on such reforms and highlighted efforts to address waste, fraud, and abuse within federal programs.

Additionally, Thune mentioned efforts to streamline government operations and find cost savings, noting the involvement of Elon Musk and DOGE. He said, "We’ve needed this for a long time, and I think the American taxpayers demand and deserve that." Thune also revealed discussions with White House officials about incorporating DOGE savings into legislation, mentioning talks about a possible rescissions bill.