Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune recapped the initial achievements of the 119th Congress during a press conference with Senate Republican leadership. He highlighted significant legislative and procedural developments within the U.S. Senate over the past 100 days.

Thune pointed out the expedited confirmation of presidential nominees, claiming it was the "fastest ... pace in 20 years." He also noted the completion of the longest continuous Senate session in 15 years, spanning 10 weeks. The Senate, under his leadership, has focused on retracting numerous regulations from the Biden administration using the Congressional Review Act.

Legislatively, Thune noted the passing of significant bills such as Laken Riley and the HALT Fentanyl bill, both seen as important measures. Additionally, a budget resolution was passed, paving the way for upcoming legislative priorities. Thune emphasized efforts to extend the Trump tax cuts, rebuild the military, enhance American energy independence, and bolster the southern U.S. border, aligning with fiscal responsibility and deficit reduction.

Thune expressed resolve for future actions, including the importance of the House passing the Senate budget resolution to advance the reconciliation process. He cited objectives such as preventing a significant tax increase, securing the southern border, equipping the military, and reforming energy policies to reduce costs, saying, “[W]e’re excited about what we’ve gotten done so far, but we know there’s a lot more work to do.”

He reiterated the intention to cooperate closely with President Trump and the House of Representatives to pursue an agenda that addresses the mandate from the previous November election.