Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune recently addressed the Senate floor, reflecting on changes at the southern border under the Trump administration. Thune began by honoring former colleague Christopher 'Kit' Bond, who passed away at 86. He remembered Bond's service as Missouri's governor and U.S. Senator, noting his dedication to public service.

Thune highlighted recent data from Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for April, quoting their statement: “Driven by the administration’s decisive and effective immigration enforcement, our frontlines continue to see overwhelming improvements when it comes to securing our border.” According to CBP, there were 12,035 illegal immigrant encounters in April, a decrease from previous months.

The senator emphasized an increase in drug seizures and noted Acting CBP Commissioner Pete Flores' remarks: “For the first time in years, more agents are back in the field – patrolling territories that CBP didn’t have the bandwidth or manpower to oversee just six months ago.”

Thune credited new leadership with restoring operational control at the border. He contrasted this with what he described as challenges during the Biden administration when "hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants were crossing" monthly.

Thune expressed gratitude for progress made under President Trump and mentioned a forthcoming reconciliation bill aimed at bolstering border security. The bill proposes funding for finishing the border wall, technology enhancements, additional personnel for Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and increased detention capacity.

In closing, Thune stated Republicans' commitment to addressing past border issues and ensuring continued success for future administrations. He acknowledged potential opposition from Democrats but affirmed support for border security among Americans.