Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) addressed the Senate floor today, criticizing the Democratic Party's stance on the upcoming reconciliation bill. Thune highlighted that Democrats are actively opposing several key components of the bill, including tax relief for American families, funding for border security, military readiness, and energy independence.

Thune stated, "Democrats are going to use every resource at their disposal to fight against extending tax relief for American families." He further criticized their approach towards border security and military funding by saying, "And if the Biden border crisis taught us anything, it’s that Democrats have essentially no interest in securing our borders at all."

The Republican leader also pointed out what he sees as Democrat indifference to military investment and energy resources. "Democrat hostility to conventional energy is also well-known," Thune said.

According to Thune, without the proposed reconciliation bill, a typical family of four making $80,000 would face an additional $1,700 in taxes next year. He claims this is part of a larger $2.6 trillion tax increase affecting Americans earning less than $400,000 annually.

Thune accused Democrats of endorsing continued lax border policies under President Biden and failing to address gaps in U.S. military readiness. He mentioned concerns about technological advancements in China and a decline in munitions supply.

"Americans are looking for the things our bill will provide – from the economic benefits that will come with continued tax relief to a secure border," he concluded.

Republicans aim to pass the reconciliation bill despite Democratic opposition.