url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/south-dakota-cattle-groups-support-johnsons-cattle-contract-library,South Dakota Cattle Groups Support Johnson’s “Cattle Contract Library”,2021-12-17,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Last week, the Cattle Contract Library Act (H.R. 5609), introduced by Ranking Member of the Livestock & Foreign Agriculture Subcommittee Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), passed the U.S. House by 411-13.

South Dakota agriculture groups expressed support for H.R. 5609 following passage:

""Ranchers and feeders across the state agree that there is a need for more cattle market transparency including reporting details of all cattle marketing arrangements, and there is no reason to wait on getting this signed into law,"" said South Dakota Farm Bureau President and American Farm Bureau Federation Vice President Scott VanderWal. ""We are very pleased that the House overwhelmingly voted in support of this bill and hope for quick passage in the Senate.""

""South Dakota cattle producers have increasingly utilized Alternative Market Agreements to add value to their beef product. There has not been an adequate reporting system to keep up with the changes in marketing as the AMA's have become more prevalent,"" said Eric Jennings, President, South Dakota Cattlemen's Association.""The Cattle Contract Library Act addresses the need for market transparency for contracted cattle sales. South Dakota Cattlemen's Association thanks Representative Johnson for his hard work in achieving passage of this important piece of market reform in the U.S. House of Representatives.""

H.R. 5609 creates a library for cattle contracts within the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA's) Agriculture Marketing Service Department. Currently, cattlemen are unaware of contract terms being offered by packers, leading to a decline in leverage for smaller producers during price negotiations. This is the first cattle market bill to pass out of the Agriculture Committee in over a year and follows the recommendation of the July 2020 Boxed Beef & Fed Cattle Price Spread Investigation Report. The investigation recommended the implementation of a cattle contract library.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=7B26D4FE-4F29-4B6B-8AD5-199840F776FA,"Thune, McClain Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Protect Toddlers From Federal Mandates",2021-12-16,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) today introduced the Preventing Mandates on Toddlers Act. This bicameral legislation would nullify an interim final rule (IFR) that was published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that requires universal masking for all individuals in a Head Start facility above the age of two, including all staff, volunteers, and contractors. The IFR also requires toddlers to wear masks while they are outside on the playground, and it mandates staff and volunteers to be vaccinated by January 31, 2022.

“The long arm of the federal government should not extend to the kickball field at our kids’ and grandkids’ playground,” said Thune. “A toddler mask mandate highlights everything that’s wrong with Washington, which is why I introduced this common-sense bill that would prohibit the Biden administration from enforcing or implementing this intrusive, one-size-fits-all Washington rule. It would ensure these decisions can continue to be made by individual Head Start programs and families who know these kids best – as they have been doing since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“The science shows masking is detrimental to early child development. It’s time we start following the science, not the political science, and put policies into place that are beneficial to our toddlers and children,” said McClain. “This commonsense legislation ensures not a single dollar of taxpayer money will go to enforcing the HHS rule that is detrimental to our future generations.”

“South Dakota Head Start programs have successfully implemented appropriate COVID-19 mitigation strategies, and the majority have been open and safely functioning since June 2020,” said Katie Sieverding, executive director of South Dakota Head Start Association. “We thank Senator Thune for his work to protect our children and families from blanket masking mandates and keep these important decisions at the local level where they are best made.”

This legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Sens. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and U.S. Reps. Rick Allen (R-Ga.) and Lance Gooden (R-Texas).

The Head Start program is a federal government program that provides qualifying, low-income children with early education services. Program facilities are located throughout the nation and, up until this point, individual locations have been able to set and enforce their own COVID-19 protocols.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=7D725F3A-9221-4ECB-B4C7-DC861CA961BE,"As Inflation Soars, Thune, Boozman Lead Colleagues in Standing up for Farmers and Ranchers",2021-12-16,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), a longtime member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, and John Boozman (R-Ark.), ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, this week led several of their colleagues in urging federal financial regulators to provide community banks, credit unions, and Farm Credit institutions with the regulatory flexibility they need to responsibly work with their agriculture clients as the profit margins of farmers and ranchers shrink from higher input costs. The senators are also requesting that federal financial regulators monitor how inflation and inflationary-related pressures are affecting the agriculture industry and, in turn, the community financial institutions that serve it.

“The destructive impact of inflation has already affected individuals, families, and businesses across the nation, and no one is immune from these price increases,” the senators wrote. “Caused in large part by an unprecedented increase in federal government spending, in addition to supply chain bottlenecks, these higher prices are not just increasing grocery bills and home heating costs, but they are also raising costs on businesses, including on our nation’s farmers and ranchers.”

The letter was also signed by U.S. Sens. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), James Inhofe (R-Okla.), John Kennedy (R-La.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.).

Full letter below:

The Honorable Jerome Powell The Honorable Jelena McWilliams

Chairman Chairman

Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation

20th Street and Constitution Avenue Northwest 550 17th Street Northwest

Washington, D.C. 20551 Washington, D.C. 20429

The Honorable Michael Hsu The Honorable Todd Harper

Acting Comptroller of the Currency Chairman

Office of the Comptroller of the Currency National Credit Union Administration

400 7th Street Southwest 1775 Duke Street

Washington, D.C. 20219 Alexandria, VA 22314

The Honorable Glen Smith

Chairman

Farm Credit Administration

1501 Farm Credit Drive

McLean, VA 22102

Dear Chairman Powell, Chairman McWilliams, Acting Comptroller Hsu, Chairman Harper, and Chairman Smith:

We write to highlight the specific impact that inflation and higher input costs are having, and will continue to have, on our nation’s agriculture economy for the foreseeable future. As the cost of doing business continues to grow at a rate not seen in several years, we believe it is of utmost importance that you continue to provide community financial institutions with the regulatory flexibility they need to responsibly work with their agriculture clients as the profit margins of farmers and ranchers shrink. We also believe it would be helpful for you to specifically monitor how inflation and inflationary-related pressures are affecting the agriculture industry and, in turn, the community financial institutions that serve it. This information would be invaluable as Congress begins considering improvements to the producer safety net in the next farm bill.

The destructive impact of inflation has already affected individuals, families, and businesses across the nation, and no one is immune from these price increases. Caused in large part by an unprecedented increase in federal government spending, in addition to supply chain bottlenecks, these higher prices are not just increasing grocery bills and home heating costs, but they are also raising costs on businesses, including on our nation’s farmers and ranchers.

As you are aware, year-over-year inflation is currently at its highest level in nearly four decades. This problem has proven to be more than transitory, and estimates suggest that heightened inflation will remain well into next year. This directly affects the ability of individuals, families, and businesses to purchase goods and pay their bills.

Specific to agriculture, inflation is hiking the cost of doing business on everything from fertilizer to fuel to machinery, among a number of other things needed to keep farm and ranch operations running. To name just a few examples, fertilizer prices have increased by 265 percent since May 2020, and farm diesel prices and used farm machinery prices are up year-over-year by over 50 percent and 34 percent respectively. And these rising input costs are one of the factors contributing to declining optimism among farmers, according to a recent study by Purdue University.

Net cash farm incomes, a broad measure of U.S. farm profitability, have been boosted in recent years by higher commodity prices and federal government payments, and they are projected to be approximately 23 percent higher in 2021 than they were in 2020 according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service. As a result, we believe farmers and ranchers are in a healthy financial position as they make strategic plans, in partnership with their lenders, going into the 2022 growing season. It is important to recognize, however, that in order for producers to weather the storm of higher input costs and lower profit margins, new regulatory burdens should not be imposed on financial institutions that service agriculture as farm and ranch customers experience increased credit needs.

Therefore, as producers potentially seek greater amounts of credit, we urge you to not increase regulatory or examination burdens upon community financial institutions, which could interfere with their ability to extend credit to agriculture customers. We believe that community financial institutions have the necessary capital to help their farm and ranch borrowers keep up with rising input costs as profit margins tighten, while maintaining the proper safety and soundness considerations.

As you and your examiners continue your work to supervise community financial institutions, we look forward to working with you as you monitor the impacts of inflation on the agriculture economy and as you ensure these lenders have the flexibility they need to serve the agriculture sector in this time of heightened inflation. Thank you for your attention to our concerns.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=E36AC76F-CCC9-4A83-9207-1BCB700CF120,Thune: Reckless Tax-and-Spending Spree Highlights Democrats’ Big-Government Vision for the Future,2021-12-16,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today discussed how the radical proposals in the Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending spree highlight the massive difference between the two parties when it comes to their vision for the future of America. Thune noted that preserving liberty is a fundamental purpose of government, and the Democrats’ policies would transfer some of Americans’ decision-making power over to politicians and Washington bureaucrats.

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, Democrats’ push to pass their tax-and-spending spree continues to throw into sharp relief the difference between Republicans’ and Democrats’ vision of government.

“And it’s about a lot more than just the amount of money we want to spend.

“Of course the amount of money we’re spending matters.

“But it’s also about what that money represents.

“In general, more money means more government.

“And more government usually means less freedom.

“And Republicans don’t oppose Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree just because it would cost a lot of money, or drive up our national debt.

“It would do both of those things, of course, with negative consequences for our economy and the prosperity of American families.

“And the negative economic consequences alone are sufficient reason to oppose Democrats’ Build Back Bankrupt plan.

“But it’s about a lot more than the excessive spending.

“With their Build Back Bankrupt plan, Democrats envision a society in which government is intimately involved in nearly every aspect of Americans’ life – from, to quote a New York Times article, ‘cradle to grave.’

“And that’s not a vision Republicans share.

“Primarily because a government that is intimately involved in nearly every aspect of your life is a government that is going to exert control over your life.

“More government inevitably means more government control.

“Take Democrats’ child care plan in their Build Back Better legislation.

“To hear Democrats talk about it, you might think this plan involves nothing more than cutting checks to American parents to help with their child care bills.

“That’s not the case.

“First, of course, Democrats take the opportunity to add a lot of new child care mandates and regulations.

“According to one estimate, Democrats’ child care subsidy measure could drive up the cost of day care by somewhere around $13,000 per child.

“Good luck working that into the family budget.

“Democrats’ government subsidy program is set up to favor certain kinds of child care and child care providers.

“It’s set up to favor institutional child care, rather than home care or other models like neighborhood co-ops.

“And it’s set up to place religious providers at a disadvantage.

“That’s right.

“Despite the fact that a majority of working families who use center-based care opt for faith-based centers, Democrats’ program is set up to put these providers at a disadvantage.

“It denies them facilities funding that is granted to secular providers.

“And it could disqualify many providers with traditional religious beliefs – like those shared by millions upon millions of Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, and Muslim families around the country.

“It could even disqualify a provider simply because the provider gave placement preference to families of its own faith!

“So if you’re a Catholic church with a child care program and you give preference to families who attend your church, you could be accused of discrimination and disqualified from receiving government subsidies.

“And if you’re a parent who can’t afford that program without those government subsidies – thanks to government mandates and regulations that have hiked up the child care bill – you’re out of luck.

“If you need those government subsidies, you’ll have to send your child to one of the providers the government prefers.

“Mr. President, the child care program in Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree provides a perfect example of what happens when government gets involved.

“And it’s about a lot more than how much money the government is spending.

“With government money comes government control.

“The decision is no longer just in the individual’s hands.

“And the more substantial the government involvement, the larger the government’s role in decision-making is likely to be – whether the issue is child care, health care, education, or anything else.

“Mr. President, in his 1967 inaugural address as governor of California, Ronald Reagan said, and I quote, ‘Freedom is a fragile thing and it's never more than one generation away from extinction. It is not ours by way of inheritance; it must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation, for it comes only once to a people.’

“Freedom is a fragile thing, Mr. President.

“Here in the United States, we have enjoyed an unprecedented degree of individual liberty – a liberty that it is very easy for us to take for granted.

“But that liberty is not guaranteed.

“It is something that must be fought for and protected.

“And that doesn’t involve simply safeguarding our liberty from external threats from foreign powers, it involves making sure that government doesn’t start to exceed its proper role.

“The loss of freedom can come dramatically.

“Or it can come quietly, through a steady increase of government encroachment.

“And it’s important to remember that freedom can be eroded or taken away by the well-meaning – not just those actively hostile to it.

“I believe that my Democrat colleagues likely do not see their ideas for dramatic government expansion as threatening Americans’ personal freedom.

“The problem is that when you expand the reach of government, the diminishment of liberty is inevitable.

“Expand the reach of government into Americans’ lives, and it’s inevitable that you’re going to transfer some of Americans’ decision-making power over to politicians and bureaucrats in Washington.

“Mr. President, Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree – and its major expansion of government – is far from the only threat to Americans’ liberties that we’re seeing from the Democrat Party.

“I am increasingly disturbed by Democrats’ tendency to play fast and loose with religious liberty and the First Amendment – whether that involves disadvantaging religious child care providers, threatening individuals’ right to live according to their conscience, questioning judges’ fitness for office based on their religious beliefs, or, as we learned recently from a courageous whistleblower FBI agent, even opening the door for the FBI to collect information on parents voicing their opposition to local school policies during school board meetings.

“I’m also disturbed by Democrats’ clear belief that Americans should defer to government and Democrat-approved experts – as spectacularly evidenced in the Virginia governor’s race, which was unquestionably decided based partly on the Democrat candidate’s repeatedly expressed belief that parents shouldn’t be involved in the content of their children’s education.

“I’m puzzled as to why Democrats are so convinced that Washington elites or Democrat-approved experts are better at making decisions than ordinary Americans.

“As Ronald Reagan said in that same speech, “[I]t's hard to explain those among us who even today would question the people's capacity for self-government. I've often wondered if they will answer, those who subscribe to that philosophy: if no one among us is capable of governing himself, then who among us has the capacity to govern someone else?”

“I believe that the American people are capable of governing themselves – of making their own decisions – and that they’re actually generally going to be better at it than a bunch of bureaucrats in Washington.

“And I strongly oppose efforts to substitute the judgments of Washington bureaucrats – or Democrat politicians – for the judgment of individual Americans.

“Mr. President, it states in the Declaration of Independence that governments are instituted to preserve our unalienable rights, including the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

“Preserving liberty is a fundamental purpose of government, but of course before you can enjoy liberty, you have to enjoy the right to life.

“And for a long time now the Democrat Party has consistently denied the right to life of a whole segment of the American population – unborn Americans.

“And there’s no better example of their aggressive pro-abortion extremism than the so-called Women’s Health Protection Act that Democrats in the House passed in September.

“This legislation – which would more accurately be termed the Abortion on Demand Act – would eliminate almost every democratically passed state abortion restriction, no matter how mild.

“It would endanger the religious and conscience rights of doctors and nurses.

“And of course it ignores the clear position of the American people, a strong majority of whom support restrictions on abortion.

“Apparently Democrats are not content with joining repressive regimes like China and North Korea as one of a tiny handful of nations that allow elective abortion past 20 weeks of pregnancy.

“No, they want to remove even the mildest and most widely supported restrictions on abortion.

“It’s yet another example of Democrats’ tendency to think they know better than the American people.

“Mr. President, the Republican vision – the conservative vision – the vision I share – is a vision that foregrounds liberty, not government.

“That believes that individuals acting freely generally tend to do a better job of making decisions than a small handful of politicians and bureaucrats in Washington.

“We believe in government as backstop, not Big Brother.

“A system of permanent government dependence erodes individual liberty – to say nothing of the ways in which it undermines prosperity and robs individuals of the purpose and pride that come with work and achievement.

“Government should create the conditions in which freedom, opportunity, and prosperity can flourish – not attempt to secure particular outcomes or dictate the paths Americans should take.

“We are privileged to live in the freest country the world has ever known.

“It’s not a privilege we can or should take for granted.

“And it’s a privilege we can all too easily lose.

“Our liberty is, as Ronald Reagan said, ever only one generation away from extinction.

I will continue to make safeguarding that liberty we’ve been given one of my most cherished priorities – whether that involves fighting for the right to life of unborn Americans, opposing attempts to restrict religious liberty, or fighting against an expansion of government that would push out parents and put the government in the driver’s seat on too many issues.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-ndaa-including-rounds-south-dakota-priorities,"Senate Passes NDAA, Including Rounds’ South Dakota Priorities",2021-12-15,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON– U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and ranking Republican member of the Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, today issued the following statement on the Senate’s passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2022. It now heads to the president’s desk for signature.

“This year’s NDAA includes many wins for South Dakota – including victories for Ellsworth Air Force Base, Dakota State University and Raven Aerostar,” said Rounds. “Additionally, a lot of work has been done to remove radical pieces of legislation – like red flag laws and selective service requirements for women – that were included in the House version of this bill. Providing our troops with the tools they need to complete their missions fulfills one of our most fundamental duties: to provide for our national defense.”

Earlier today on the Senate floor, Senate Armed Services Ranking Member Jim Inhofe noted Rounds expertise on cybersecurity. “We have…not just experts on the outside,” said Inhofe. “Senator Mike Rounds probably knows more about cybersecurity than any of the advisors that are out there.”

South Dakota Wins Included:

Authorizes the following construction at Ellsworth Air Force Base:

- $41M for B-21 2-Bay Low Observable Restoration Facility.

- $24M for B-21 Addition/Alteration to the Existing Flight Simulator.

- $47M for B–21 Field Training Detachment Facility.

- $70M for B–21 Formal Training Unit/Aircraft Maintenance Unit.

- $36M for B–21 Mission Operations Planning Facility.

- $65M for B–21 Wash Rack & Maintenance Hangar.

$2.87 billion for continued B-21 development.

Strengthened the university cyber consortium of academic institutions which are designated as Cyber Centers of Academic Excellence, including Dakota State University.

Authorized $6.5 million for stratospheric balloon research. Directly impacts a successful manufacturer based in Sioux Falls, SD, Raven Aerostar which develops and deploys stratospheric balloon technology.

Authorizes $9.8 million for Joe Foss Field F-16 Mission Training Center.

Additional Rounds Provisions Included:

Secured $300 million for National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence recommendations, including accelerating processes to apply artificial intelligence capabilities to military systems, processes and operations (pending coordination with the Appropriations Committee).

Created an emerging technology education requirement for Department of Defense senior leaders.

Directed creation of Artificial Intelligence performance objectives and metrics for incorporation of artificial intelligence and digital readiness across all DOD platforms, training and operations.

Tightened up the Department of Defense’s Principal Cyber Advisor position to prevent dual-hatting with the Chief Information Officer.

Modified a pilot program led by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, Department of Defense and National Cyber Director to establish voluntary public-private partnerships with internet ecosystem companies

Authorized full funding for U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) to include items on their unfunded requirements list.

Maintained CYBERCOM’s budgetary controls.

Requires the Department of Defense to assess how the department can protect the United States from ransomware.

Restored the Close Combat Lethality Task Force as a cross-functional team and direct report to the Secretary of Defense after the Secretary moved it out of the Pentagon (to the Army) and several echelons below the Chief of Staff of the Army.

Bill Highlights:

Increases military basic pay for all service members by 2.7%.

Bans dishonorable discharges for service members who refuse the COVID-19 vaccine.

Creates a new National Defense Strategy Commission to review the upcoming Biden National Defense Strategy.

Requires the Secretary of Defense to report on U.S. counterterrorism efforts and plans to evacuate U.S. citizens and allies from Afghanistan.

Authorizes a Guam Integrated Air and Missile Defense System.

Extends the prohibition against using funds to transfer or release GTMO prisoners to the United States and extends the prohibition on closing the base.

Radical House Provisions Removed from Bill:

Removed a provision that required women to register with the selective service.

Successfully stripped red flag law provisions that violated the Second Amendment rights of our nation’s service members by allowing military judges and magistrates to issue military court orders to confiscate privately owned firearms.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=80DDCE38-5243-48CF-993D-1660E77CF464,"Thune Applauds Senate Passage of Annual Defense Bill, Ellsworth Funding",2021-12-15,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Clickhere to watch the video.

U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today applauded the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2022. Thune noted that the bill contains numerous priorities that benefit South Dakota and the future B-21 bomber mission at Ellsworth Air Force Base.

NDAA priorities for South Dakota include:

$2.87 billion for B-21 development

$47 million for a B-21 Field Training Detachment Facility

$36 million for a B-21 Mission Operations Planning Facility

$65 million for a B-21 Washrack and Maintenance Hangar

$24 million for a B-21 additions to the flight simulator facility

$70 million for a B-21 Formal Training Unit/Aircraft Maintenance Unit

$41 million for a B-21 two-bay Low-Observable Restoration Facility

$9.8 million for an F-16 Mission Training Center at Joe Foss Field

$15 million for a South Dakota Guard Readiness Center in Sioux Falls

Preservation of B-1 maintenance and operational squadrons through at least fiscal year 2023 or until their replacement by B-21 units

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, I am pleased that today we will finally move to a vote on the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022.

“Thanks to Democrats’ focus on their reckless Build Back Better tax-and-spending spree, consideration of the NDAA – one of the most important bills we consider every year – was delayed for months.

“And of course once we finally got onto the bill, Democrats rushed the process.

“Senators of both parties filed a total of 1,000 amendments on this bill, but not one of those amendments received a vote on the Senate floor.

“But at least we’re finally here, set to pass this critical legislation.

“And I am pleased that Republicans were able to strengthen this bill in committee and in the so-called pre-conference negotiations.

“This includes removing troublesome provisions like “red flag” laws that would summarily suspend the Second Amendment rights of our men and women in uniform.

“Thanks in large part to Republican efforts, the final bill is $25 billion above President Biden’s inadequate budget request.

“We’ve made a lot of progress over the past several years on rebuilding our military, which – after years of underfunding and budgetary uncertainty, combined with heavy operational demands – had been left under-equipped, under-manned, and under-prepared to meet the threats of the 21st century.

“The situation had gotten so bad that in 2018 the bipartisan National Defense Strategy Commission released a report warning that our readiness had eroded to the point where we might struggle to win a war against a major power like Russia or China.

“An especially chilling warning considering the mounting destabilization from both of these countries today.

“And the commission noted that we would be especially vulnerable if we were ever called on to fight a war on two fronts.

“But, as I said, over the past several years we’ve made a lot of progress on restoring military readiness.

“Unfortunately, President Biden’s inadequate budget request threatened to undo some of that progress.

“So I’m very pleased that thanks in large part to Republican efforts, Democrats and Republicans have agreed on a final number that will continue our reinvestment in our military so that our men and women in uniform will have the resources they need to address the threats of the 21st century.

“With both China and Russia flexing their military power – and the growing danger of a further Russian invasion of Ukraine – it is critically important that we ensure that our nation is always prepared to defend itself and our vital national interests, whatever the threat.

“And on the subject of Ukraine, I am very pleased that the final bill we’ll vote on today includes an additional $50 million in military assistance for Ukraine.

“Ukraine has spent years dealing with a Russian invasion that threatens to push further into its sovereign territory, and we should be supporting the efforts of this free nation to defend itself from Russian aggression.

“Mr. President, I am particularly proud to announce that this year’s NDAA contains the necessary funding to continue essential preparation for the B-21 mission at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota.

“We found out in June of this year that Ellsworth had officially been named Main Operating Base 1 for the future B-21 bomber – ‘Home of the Raider.’

“This designation not only means that Ellsworth will be the first base to host the B-21 Raider, but that it will also host the formal training unit and the first operational squadron.

“The stealth B-21 bomber will eventually replace the Air Force’s B-1s, which have been a proven workhorse within Global Strike Command but must be divested to free up capacity and resources for an even more agile and capable bomber fleet.

“Once operational, the B-21 Raider will be a critical part of our nation’s long-range strike capabilities and nuclear deterrent well into the future.

“And I am incredibly proud that South Dakota and Ellsworth were chosen to serve as the first operating base for the B-21s.

“When I first came to the Senate, the outlook for Ellsworth wasn’t so rosy.

“I had barely arrived here in the Senate when Ellsworth was placed on the Base Realignment and Closure, or BRAC, list.

“It was an all-hands effort by the congressional delegation and Ellsworth and state and community leaders to make the case to the Bush administration and the BRAC Commission to remove Ellsworth from the closure list.

“Many thought South Dakota might not have the clout to make this stand – that we didn’t wield enough influence.

“We were only given about 12 percent odds of pulling through.

“But we were determined that we weren’t going to lose Ellsworth.

“And we stood our ground and won the day.

“Ellsworth was removed from the BRAC list that August.

“And we got right to work on building up the base so that we would never again find ourselves in the same position.

“In 2007, we saw the Air Force Financial Services Center open at Ellsworth.

“2011 saw the arrival of the 89th Attack Squadron, and its command and control stations for MQ-9 Reapers.

“And in 2015 a decade-long mission paid off with the quadrupling of the training air space for the base.

“The Powder River Training Complex is now the largest training air space in the continental United States and can be used for large-force exercises that draw combat aircraft from across the country.

“It’s also well-suited for B-21 training – which is undoubtedly one of the reasons that Ellsworth was chosen as the first home of the Raider.

“And I am committed to ensuring that Ellsworth has everything it needs for its new mission, so that it can continue to serve as one of our nation’s essential military assets for decades to come.

“To that end, I worked to ensure that this year’s NDAA contained not only full funding for B-21 development, but full funding for the first of many equipment and support facilities that will be needed for the B-21 mission at Ellsworth, including a low-observable coating restoration facility, a wash rack and maintenance hangar, expanding the flight simulator facility, and more.

“It's imperative that these and the follow-on military construction projects at Ellsworth stay on pace to ensure that the B-21, once fielded, can begin operations alongside the current B-1 mission at Ellsworth to enable a smooth transition from one mission to the next.

“This NDAA also ensures adequate support for our B-1s in South Dakota, Texas, and deployed on Bomber Task Force missions so that they have the resources they need until they are replaced by the B-21.

“I will continue to do everything I can here in Congress to support our B-1s at Ellsworth and advance the B-21 mission.

“Mr. President, providing for our nation’s defense is one of our most serious responsibilities as members of Congress.

“We have an obligation to ensure that our nation is prepared to meet any threat, whether the danger comes from terrorism, rogue states, or major powers.

“And we have an obligation to ensure that our men and women in uniform have the resources they need to confront the threats we ask them to face.

“I am frustrated that it took us so long to move to consideration of this year’s NDAA.

“But I am happy that we did at least manage to secure a solid piece of legislation.

“And I look forward to voting for this bill later today.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=1153CDC3-77C3-4C1F-A718-7843F7FF364C,Thune: Democrats Double Down on Failed Policies That Have Created Record-High Inflation,2021-12-14,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today discussed how the Democrats’ plan to double down on their failed policies and pass their reckless tax-and-spending spree would worsen the already record-high inflation and continue to hurt families in South Dakota.

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, the latest inflation numbers came out on Friday, and the news was not good.

“Inflation is currently at its highest level in nearly 40 years.

“40 years.

“The last time inflation was this bad, E.T. and Rocky III were in theaters, and the Packers were being coached by Bart Starr.

“Mr. President, high inflation is taking a major toll on American families.

“Gas prices are at a seven-year high.

“The price of used cars and trucks is up 31 percent.

“31 percent.

“Propane, kerosene, and firewood are up 34 percent.

“Food prices have increased significantly.

“Ground beef is up 14 percent.

“Apples are up 7.4 percent.

“Pork is up 17 percent.

“Eggs are up 8 percent.

“Baby food is up 6.7 percent.

“Bacon and related products are up 21 percent.

“And the list continues.

“Mr. President, rent prices are up.

“Utility prices are up.

“Furniture prices are up.

“And on and on.

“Inflation is so bad that despite wage growth this year, Americans have seen a de facto pay cut, with real average hourly earnings down 1.9 percent for the year.

“Mr. President, inflation is what happens when you have too many dollars chasing too few goods and services.

“And a big reason for our current inflation situation is Democrats’ decision to pour a lot of unnecessary government money into the economy earlier this year – despite being warned that their partisan $1.9 trillion ‘American Rescue Plan’ spending spree could stoke inflation.

“And you don’t have to take my word for it.

“Here’s what former Obama economic adviser Jason Furman had to say recently when discussing our inflation problem: ‘The original sin was an oversized American Rescue Plan. It contributed to both higher output but also higher prices.’

“That quote from Mr. Furman appeared in a New York Times article that also noted, and I quote, ‘But some economists, including veterans of previous Democratic administrations, say much of Mr. Biden’s inflation struggle is self-inflicted. Lawrence H. Summers is one of those who say the stimulus bill the president signed in March gave too much of a boost to consumer spending … Mr. Summers, who served in the Obama and Clinton administrations, says inflation now risks spiraling out of control and other Democratic economists agree there are risks.’

“Mr. President, inflation is spiraling out of control.

“And Democrats are preparing to throw more fuel on the fire.

“That’s right.

“Democrats are preparing to double down on the strategy that helped get us in this mess in the first place and pass ANOTHER massive government spending bill.

“I’m not sure whether Democrats simply don’t care about the inflation situation facing American families, or whether they’re operating under the delusion that they can somehow pass another major government spending bill without serious consequences for our economy.

“Regardless, there’s no question that pouring another $1.75 trillion in government money into the economy would likely make our inflation crisis even worse.

“Mr. President, I say $1.75 trillion, because that’s what Democrats have been selling as the price tag for their so-called Build Back Better plan.

“But as we learned on Friday from the Congressional Budget Office’s latest analysis, Democrats’ spending spree would far exceed $1.75 trillion.

“When you take away the shell games and budget gimmicks, Democrats’ spending spree would cost almost $5 trillion.

“$5 TRILLION.

“And of course the tax hikes in Democrats’ plan, as large as they are, would not even come close to funding that amount.

“Democrats’ Build Back Better proposal – if implemented over 10 years as they plan – would add an eye-watering $3 trillion to our national debt.

“It turns out that Build Back Better is more like Build Back Bankrupt.

“Mr. President, Democrats have attempted to disguise the true cost of their Build Back Bankrupt plan by strategically sunsetting various provisions before the end of the bill’s 10-year budget window.

“Of course Democrats have never had any intention of actually sunsetting these provisions.

“But by claiming that they are going to sunset these measures, they have been able to – sort of – disguise the fact that their spending spree would actually cost nearly $5 trillion.

“Now Democrats are implicitly admitting that they plan to extend these programs but are saying that people shouldn’t worry – that the cost of extensions will be offset.

“I’d like to know how exactly they plan to do that.

“With massive new tax hikes – on top of the tax hikes they’ve already included in their bill?

“Just how many tax hikes do Democrats think our economy can handle?

“And if Democrats had a plan for future offsets, why didn’t they include those offsets in their bill in the first place, along with an honest accounting of the length of their programs?

“Is it because they thought the American people would balk if they knew the true cost of the bill?

“That they might not be crazy about the idea of a bill that would cost them $5 trillion?

“Mr. President, I am hard-pressed to think of anything more irresponsible than for Democrats to pass their Build Back Better – or Build Back Bankrupt – measure right now.

“Inflation is soaring – and there’s no clear end in sight.

“We’re emerging from a pandemic that required a lot of government expenditure – and a corresponding increase in our debt.

“And we have no idea what government money might be needed down the road.

“Passing a $5 trillion spending spree – that would add $3 trillion to our national debt – is the very last thing we should be doing.

“I hope that at least some of my Democrat colleagues will think better of their spending plans before the American people are forced to discover just what building back bankrupt is like.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=A24CCD99-391D-4F8F-8186-5270884D0593,"Thune, Smith, Rounds, Tester Introduce Legislation to Encourage Homeownership Across Indian Country",2021-12-14,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Jon Tester (D-Mont.) today introduced the Tribal Trust Land Homeownership Act. This bipartisan legislation would create statutory timelines in which the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) would be required to process and approve mortgages involving property located on tribal trust land. Additionally, it would enhance the ability of certain federal agencies to operate their tribal housing programs and improve communication between the BIA and tribes, tribal members, and lenders through the establishment of a realty ombudsman within the BIA who can communicate with relevant parties.

“Affordable housing opportunities on tribal trust land can be hard to come by in South Dakota and across the nation, due in part to the BIA’s challenging mortgage approval process, which can complicate lenders’ ability to provide financing and participate in federal tribal housing programs,” said Thune. “My bipartisan legislation would expedite this mortgage approval process and encourage more lenders to provide mortgages across Indian Country, which would, in turn, expand tribal members’ opportunities for homeownership.”

“Without a safe, affordable place to live, nothing in your life works,” said Smith. “The Indian Home Loan Guarantee program is a key federal tool to help Native families buy a home, but for too long, the program has been plagued by bureaucratic delays that have left families waiting months to complete home purchases, especially on Tribal trust lands. Our bipartisan legislation seeks to cut through the red tape and help Native homebuyers acquire homes in a timely manner.”

“As a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, I strongly support this legislation that benefits home and business ownership opportunities for tribal members,” said Rounds. “This bill is a product of many discussions with tribal entities, lenders and the South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition. The Tribal Trust Land Homeownership Act will hold the BIA accountable to timely processing of mortgage packets and title status reports.”

“Housing availability and affordability are serious issues in Indian Country, and the red tape around getting a mortgage on Tribal land is making it even worse,” said Tester. “This legislation will hold bureaucrats to timelines and help folks in Indian Country access financing quickly and efficiently. Expanding access and availability of housing is critically important for families to thrive and businesses to grow, and I’m going to keep fighting to make sure the federal government isn’t getting in the way.”

“The South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition really appreciates Senator Thune’s and Rounds’ leadership in promoting Native homeownership opportunities,” said Juel Burnette, branch manager of 1st Tribal Lending and member of the South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition’s executive committee. “This legislation will go a long way with putting sound processes in place so that more Native Americans can enjoy the benefits of homeownership on our reservations in South Dakota and across the nation.”

“The Mortgage Bankers Association commends Senators Thune, Smith, Rounds, and Tester for taking action to improve and encourage access to quality affordable housing on trust land,” said Bill Killmer, senior vice president of legislation and political affairs at MBA. “Specifically, this legislation will reduce or eliminate BIA processing delays, thereby encouraging more lenders to participate in trust land mortgage lending.”

Currently, mortgages involving property on tribal trust land must be reviewed and approved by the BIA in order for the mortgage to be finalized. This pertains to residential, commercial, and right-of-way mortgages, to name a few. The BIA Mortgage Handbook establishes timelines for BIA offices to process and approve these mortgages, to which the timelines are not always adhered. Placing these timelines into statute would improve the timeliness of mortgage approvals and ensure lenders are not disincentivized from providing homeownership opportunities on tribal trust land.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=D63BBE7C-0452-4E29-82C3-B2CA9036F979,"Thune, Smith Bill to Provide Financial Stability to Federally Impacted School Districts Unanimously Passes Senate",2021-12-14,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) today issued the following statements after the Senate unanimously passed their Supplemental Impact Aid Flexibility Act last night. This bipartisan legislation would allow school districts that participate in the Impact Aid Program to use previously reported student headcounts on their Impact Aid applications for the 2022-2023 school year due to ongoing, yet temporary, enrollment fluctuations stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s critical for school districts in South Dakota that participate in the Impact Aid Program to have the funding stability and certainty they need,” said Thune. “I’m glad the Senate unanimously passed this important legislation to help ensure these schools have the necessary resources for next school year.”

“As the pandemic continues to hit many Minnesota school districts hard, it’s important that districts receiving Impact Aid maintain reliable, stable funding so students can keep learning,” said Smith. “I’m glad we could once again deliver on this and ensure that while the pandemic continues to affect school operations, our Impact Aid districts won’t have to recalculate their student headcounts.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rounds-announces-nominations-for-us-service-academies-for-2022-2023-school-year,Rounds Announces Nominations for U.S. Service Academies for 2022-2023 School Year,2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) today announced that he has nominated three students for appointments to the nation’s service academies. Rounds nominated Luke Jegeris of Rapid City as his principal nominee to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point; Aiden Kasten of Brandon as his principal nominee to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis; and John Costello of Sioux Falls as his principal nominee to the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs.

“It’s a privilege to nominate our nation’s future military leaders to U.S. service academies,” said Rounds. “The U.S. service academies are among the most elite educational institutions in the world. After receiving a top-notch education, these South Dakotans will courageously serve our country as active-duty military members. We’re proud of Luke, Aiden and John for their desire to answer the call of duty to serve our nation.”

“I am blessed to be receiving a principal nomination to the United States Military Academy from Senator Mike Rounds,” said Luke Jegeris. “It has always been my dream to have an occupation where I am in a position to serve others. Serving in the Army will grant me this opportunity, and will allow me to be part of a team that strives for perfection.”

""Receiving a nomination from Senator Rounds is a great honor to me and my family,” said Aiden Kasten. “My grandfather served our country during Vietnam and inspired me to pursue a military career path. Going to the United States Naval Academy and becoming a commissioned officer would truly make my country and grandpa proud.""

“To me, serving in the armed forces is about contributing to a higher purpose in life,” said John Costello. “Defending our country through service in the Air Force is a part of my desire to put service before self.""

Each year, Sen. Rounds nominates South Dakota students to the U.S. service academies. Each academy then gives full and fair consideration to these nominations when selecting applicants. Students interested in attending a service academy go through a rigorous application process. Because the academies are highly competitive, students must meet eligibility requirements in leadership, physical fitness, character and scholarship. The young people joining the military directly from the academies are among the highest caliber our country has to offer—a result of the challenging training and education they received at U.S. service academies. Students applying for service academies are required to receive a Congressional nomination as part of the application process. The students listed below have now fulfilled that requirement and their names have been submitted to the respective academies. Each service academy admission board will determine final appointments. Those appointed receive a scholarship and military appointment and are required to serve in the military for at least five years upon graduation. Principal nominees are guaranteed admission if they meet all of the requirements of the academy to which they are nominated.

Luke Jegeris of Rapid City, S.D.—Principal Nominee, U.S. Military Academy (West Point)

Luke is the son of Karl and Jill Jegeris of Rapid City, South Dakota. A senior at Stevens High School, Luke is a team captain in varsity football and catcher for Post 22 baseball. Luke is involved in Raiders Respect Club, National Honor Society and Economics Club. Luke frequently participates in volunteer service including mission trips to Tijuana, Mexico, regular snow removal at his church and holds a 4.14 GPA.

Aiden Kasten of Brandon, S.D.—Principal Nominee, U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis)

Aiden is the son of Travis and Amy Kasten of Brandon, South Dakota. A senior at Brandon Valley High School, Aiden participates in football, powerlifting and track & field. Aiden is involved in National Honor Society and Math National Honor Society. Aiden regularly volunteers with the Brandon Valley Elementary School Lunch Program, the Boy Scouts of America and holds a 3.95 GPA.

John Costello of Sioux Falls, S.D.—Principal Nominee, U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs)

John is the son of Pat and Shawn Costello of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. A senior at O’Gorman High School, John participates in basketball and ultimate Frisbee club. John is involved in National Honor Society, OGHS Student Ambassadors, and Future Business Leaders of America. John has obtained the rank of Eagle Scout as a member of the Boy Scouts of America, is a frequent volunteer at Saint Mary Church and holds a 4.0 GPA.

In addition to the three principal nominees for the Class of 2026, Rounds is also nominating ten South Dakotans as competitive nominees to the service academies. Information on the other students Rounds nominated for academy appointments are below:

U.S. Military Academy (West Point)

Weston Mason of Dell Rapids– Competitive Nominee

Grace Kaiser of Aberdeen - Competitive Nominee

Daniel Colby of Sioux Falls– Competitive Nominee

Jocelyn Prewett of Mitchell– Competitive Nominee

Elijah Fraasch of Milbank – Competitive Nominee

U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis)

Halle Fjelland of Spearfish – Competitive Nominee

Daniel Colby of Sioux Falls – Competitive Nominee* (*Applicant has received a letter of assurance from the U.S. Naval Academy)

Elijah Fraasch of Milbank – Competitive Nominee

Merci Arbach of Sioux Falls – Competitive Nominee

Jocelyn Prewett of Mitchell – Competitive Nominee

U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs)

Halle Fjelland of Spearfish – Competitive Nominee

Gunnar Kvistad of Clark – Competitive Nominee

Jocelyn Prewett of Mitchell – Competitive Nominee

Anders Enga of Mitchell – Competitive Nominee

Clare Dahlhoff of Vermillion – Competitive Nominee

Daniel Colby of Sioux Falls – Competitive Nominee

Elijah Fraasch of Milbank – Competitive Nominee

Individuals interested in applying for a service academy nomination for academic year 2023-2024 (Class of 2027) should apply by October 2022. Questions about the academy nomination application process can be directed to Rounds’ Sioux Falls office by calling (605) 336-0486 or by emailing Academy_Nominations@rounds.senate.gov. Additional information on service academy nominations is available on our website here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=0E345A0F-FC75-43A1-A9E9-E3B5F38FD057,"Thune, Luján Lead Fight For Cattle Producers, Demand Halt of Brazilian Fresh Beef Imports",2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), members of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today led a bipartisan group of senators in expressing support for the cattle industry’s recent requests for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to immediately suspend fresh beef imports from Brazil. In 2017, Brazilian fresh beef imports were suspended due to food safety concerns, and USDA allowed these imports to resume in 2020. The senators are concerned with Brazil’s recent failure to quickly disclose two cases of atypical spongiform encephalopathy – a neurological disease of cattle – which could pose a significant threat to the health and safety of the U.S. cattle herd.

“Cattle producers across the country work hard to produce the highest quality beef in the world,” the senators wrote. “This industry should not be jeopardized by Brazilian beef imports that may contaminate U.S. herds and our food supply. We support the requests to suspend Brazilian fresh beef imports until a thorough investigation can be made into Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Food Supply food safety review process.”

In February 2020, Thune led a bipartisan group of his colleagues in sending a letter to USDA questioning the department’s decision to lift the U.S. ban on Brazilian beef imports.

This letter was also signed by U.S. Sens. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), and Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.).

Full letter below:

The Honorable Tom Vilsack

Secretary

U.S. Department of Agriculture

1400 Independence Avenue, S.W.

Washington, D.C., 20250

Dear Secretary Vilsack:

We write to express support for the cattle industry’s recent requests for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to immediately suspend fresh beef imports from Brazil.

As you know, bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) is a significant concern for cattle producers and consumers, and the United States has gone to great lengths to put in place extensive interlocking safeguards to ensure our cattle producers and consumers are protected from this devastating disease. In 2017, Brazilian fresh beef imports were suspended due to food safety concerns, and unfortunately, USDA allowed these imports to resume in 2020.

Due to a lengthy delay in the reporting of two recent atypical BSE cases, we have concerns that these events are evidence that Brazil may lack credible animal health and food safety systems. While health officials state these two atypical BSE cases arose spontaneously in the infected cattle, Brazil’s irresponsible behavior may pose a significant threat to the health and safety of the U.S. cattle herd.

We believe these concerns warrant the immediate suspension of Brazil’s fresh beef imports until a thorough review can be performed by USDA and livestock producers can be assured that Brazilian beef does not place our herds or consumers at risk from BSE or other potentially devastating livestock diseases.

Cattle producers across the country work hard to produce the highest quality beef in the world. This industry should not be jeopardized by Brazilian beef imports that may contaminate U.S. herds and our food supply.

We support the requests to suspend Brazilian fresh beef imports until a thorough investigation can be made into Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Food Supply food safety review process. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. We look forward to your response.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=B13808AF-6156-4553-86BD-0DF5ECB1F2BB,Thune Questions Industry Experts on Big Tech’s Use of Persuasive Technology and Secret Algorithms,2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, today questioned industry experts on technology companies’ use of algorithms and artificial intelligence at a subcommittee hearing titled, “Disrupting Dangerous Algorithms: Addressing the Harms of Persuasive Technology.”

Yesterday, Thune questioned Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, about the company’s use of secret algorithms that work to keep users on their platform for a longer period of time. Thune also pressed Instagram on giving consumers more options, and in response, Instagram announced it would provide users with the ability to select a feed displayed in chronological order on its platform. At both hearings, Thune expressed deep concern about social media platforms’ use of persuasive technology and their ability to manipulate users’ experience while online. Thune highlighted two bills he reintroduced earlier this year: the Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency (PACT) Act and the Filter Bubble Transparency Act, which would help increase transparency for consumers and accountability for big tech.

Thune recently questioned representatives from TikTok, Snap Inc., and YouTube about social media platforms’ ability to manipulate users’ experience through algorithms. Thune also questioned Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen about the dangers of big tech’s use of algorithms.

Thune’s opening remarks below (as submitted to the hearing record):

“Thank you, Chairman Lujan.

“In 2019, six months before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, I served as chairman of this subcommittee, and convened a hearing on the use of algorithms and persuasive technology on internet platforms.

“During that hearing, I noted that former Google Executive Chairman, Eric Schmidt, once said modern technology platforms “are even more powerful than most people realize, and our future will be profoundly altered by their adoption and successfulness in societies everywhere.”

“Now we are near the end of 2021, and it seems like 2019—only two years ago—was a different age.

“Since that time, the pandemic has accelerated the use of technology platforms, and algorithms have become even more ubiquitous in every aspect of the technology we use each day, largely without us even realizing it.

“Indeed, while the pandemic has damaged many sectors of the economy, 2021 has been a year for Big Tech’s record books, even more so than was 2020.

“Already in June of this year, the Financial Times observed that Apple, Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and Facebook were adding a combined $51 billion dollars of equity value a week.

“The current stock market value of these five companies, at over $9 trillion dollars, is more than the value of the next 27 most valuable companies put together.

“As Eric Schmidt predicted, these technology companies have grown exponentially more wealthy and powerful, especially over the course of the pandemic.

“So Mr. Chairman, I appreciate you convening today’s hearing to continue the conversation on how these massively wealthy and powerful big tech platforms are using persuasive technology, and how they are profoundly altering our future.

“There is no question that internet platforms, and especially social media platforms, have transformed the way we communicate and interact with friends, family, and the public.

“So much of the content we see on social media is entertaining, educational, and can be beneficial to the public.

“However, I, along with several of my colleagues, and the public, have become more and more concerned about the influence and power of big tech within our society and the potentially damaging effect these platforms can have on individuals.

“We’ve heard testimony earlier this year about social media’s damaging effects on consumers.

“Hearing after hearing demonstrated that users are not aware of how their data is being used by big tech to affect their behavior and influence certain outcomes.

“We know that a major problem with social media platforms, as well as search engines, is their use of secret algorithms – artificial intelligence developed by Silicon Valley software engineers that’s designed to shape and manipulate users’ experiences.

“The powerful AI behind these platforms serve as prediction engines, creating a unique universe of information for each user, a phenomenon that’s often referred to as the “filter bubble.”

“The filter bubble contributes to political polarization and social isolation.

“Perhaps the most important thing to understand is that most users don’t make a conscious decision to enter the filter bubble.

“This can be particularly troubling for younger users.

“For example, a recent Wall Street Journal investigation described in detail how TikTok’s algorithm serves up highly inappropriate videos to minors.

“As a general matter, the economic incentives are aligned for big tech to keep the filter bubble in place, without users’ awareness, because platforms only make money by keeping eyeballs on their platforms as long as possible.

“Without congressional intervention, platforms have very little incentive to be more transparent about the existence of the filter bubble.

“The days are over when you logged into your favorite social media platform and consumed content that had been posted chronologically since your previous log-in.

“Now platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok – and other social media platforms, as well as search engines – use algorithms to shape your newsfeed and suggest additional, seemingly never-ending content, emphasizing posts the platforms think you’ll be interested in and deemphasizing the ones they want you to scroll past.

“And looking to the future, at the cutting edge of the use of algorithms, machine learning, and artificial intelligence on internet platforms, is the idea of the “embodied internet,” or “metaverse,” which Mark Zuckerberg described as “the next evolution of social connection” when he changed the name of his company to Meta this past October.

“The aspect of algorithms amplifying or suppressing content leads to increasing dissatisfaction and suspicion about bias being built in to the algorithms.

“Big tech platforms are certainly free to deploy algorithms that select content based on what will keep each user engaged.

“But the platforms should not be free to keep their users unaware of the fact that an algorithm is controlling which content each consumer sees on the platform.

“With some rare exceptions, people aren’t given a choice to easily opt out of a black-box algorithm that secretly selects the content they see.

“We’re learning more and more about what the problem is, and I have offered several proposals aimed at giving the public more transparency into these systems, and more control and accountability for consumers.

“I’ve introduced the bipartisan Filter Bubble Transparency Act, which would give consumers the privacy, choice, and transparency that has been absent on these platforms for too long.

“Specifically, large-scale internet platforms would be required to notify users that their platform uses secret algorithms to select the content they see, what’s often described as the “filter bubble.”

“In addition, users would be given the choice to switch to a different version of the platform that is filter bubble-free.

“At the very least, users should have the option to engage on these platforms without being manipulated by secret algorithms.

“There’s also a growing bipartisan consensus that we need to shed greater light on the secretive content moderation processes social media companies use.

“That’s why I’ve introduced the bipartisan PACT Act, which, among other things, would require internet platforms to make biannual transparency reports outlining material they’ve removed from their sites or chosen to deemphasize available to the public — and not just in intentionally complicated, hard-to-understand legalese. Sites would also be required to provide consumers with more due process and explanation when content is removed or otherwise moderated.

“It's time to make big tech more transparent and accountable, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to get these proposals across the finish line.

“Today, each of our witnesses has deep expertise regarding algorithms and artificial intelligence more broadly, as well as in the more narrow context of engagement, prediction, behavior modification, and persuasion, and brings valuable perspective about where we are today and what we can expect in the future on these matters.

“Your participation in this important hearing is appreciated, particularly as this Committee works to enact meaningful legislation to hold big tech accountable.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=E277E1BE-7E4C-4723-B394-191EDDDA3C09,"Thune: Democrats Move to Double the Size of the IRS, Jeopardize Taxpayers’ Privacy",2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today discussed the Democrats’ desire to double the size of the Internal Revenue Servicein order to pay for their reckless tax-and-spending spree. Thune noted that the agency’s poor reputation and mismanagement of taxpayer dollars would further jeopardize the privacy of South Dakotans’ personal information.

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, the one thing you can say for Democrats’ so-called Build Back Better plan is that it provides a never-ending supply of bad proposals to talk about.

“And the bad Build Back Better measure I want to discuss today is Democrats’ plan to double the size of the IRS.

“Yes.

“Double the size of the IRS.

“Mr. President, the IRS is not exactly the most popular government agency.

“And with good reason.

“The agency has gained for itself a reputation for poor taxpayer service and, most seriously, for mishandling the confidential taxpayer information it has access to.

“In fact, the IRS was subject to a massive leak or hack of private taxpayer information mere months ago – information that somehow ended up in the hands of advocates at ProPublica.

“And neither Treasury nor the IRS has provided meaningful follow-up about the data breach, much less any accountability.

“For months, Republicans on the Senate Finance Committee have pressed the administration for details about the breach of private taxpayer information.

“I would have hoped that my friends on the other side of the aisle would have shown similar concern for taxpayers’ privacy.

“And who could forget the IRS scandal during the Obama administration, when the IRS targeted a number of organizations based on their political beliefs.

“Mr. President, those are two notorious examples of IRS misconduct.

“But there are plenty of others.

“The Treasury inspector general for tax administration has repeatedly found instances of IRS agents violating taxpayer rights.

“And then there’s the agency’s record of irresponsibility or incompetence – or both.

“Losing track of laptops that may have contained sensitive taxpayer information.

“Rehiring employees who had been fired for bad behavior.

“Work delays due to a lack of simple printer maintenance.

“Hanging up on taxpayers who call the IRS for information.

“Customer service departments in general can be frustrating, but at least at many companies you can reach an actual person in a fairly reasonable amount of time.

“If you call the IRS you have a one in 50 chance of reaching a human being.

“One in 50.

“Mr. President, I could go on.

“Suffice it to say, there are good reasons why Americans tend not to be big fans of the IRS.

“And why they think this agency already has too much power.

“But Democrats would like to double the size of this agency.

“Democrats’ bill would add 87,000 new IRS employees.

“87,000.

“That’s enough employees to fill an entire football stadium – with some left over.

“87,000 is more than the population of Rapid City, South Dakota – the second-largest city in my state.

“The Congressional Budget Office estimates that increasing the size of the agency in this way would result in significantly higher audit rates of American taxpayers.

“Many of those audits would hit middle-income Americans and small businesses – in other words, individuals without easy access to an army of accountants to help them navigate the process and ensure that their rights are protected.

“Mr. President, Democrats’ primary reason for this IRS expansion is to raise revenue to help pay for their partisan tax-and-spending spree.

“They claim that hiring all these new IRS agents and employees will allow them to close or reduce the tax gap – the difference between taxes owed and taxes paid.

“But there are a couple of problems with that.

“In the first place, it’s extremely doubtful that they will be able to raise the money they claim they’ll be able to raise.

“In fact, the Congressional Budget Office doesn’t even score hoped-for revenue from enforcement since it considers the acquisition of that revenue to be so uncertain.

“And even if Democrats are able to raise a meaningful sum from increased enforcement, what exactly is it going to cost Americans for Democrats to recapture this money?

“Increased scrutiny – and costly audits – of law-abiding taxpayers?

“IRS intimidation and harassment?

“And just in case anyone thinks I’m exaggerating about that intimidation, I would note that a provision in the House version of Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending spree would repeal a measure requiring written approval of a supervisor before an IRS agent can assess any penalties.

“The provision was intended to prevent overreaching IRS agents from threatening Americans with unjustified penalties.

“And it’s hard to imagine why Democrats are trying to repeal this measure if they’re not trying to pave the way for much more aggressive IRS pressure and enforcement.

“And I haven’t even mentioned the provision that was in Democrats’ proposal for a long time and which some Democrats – including the president’s treasury secretary and other administration officials – would still like to see included: a provision that would empower the IRS to snoop on the details of Americans’ bank accounts.

“Under one version of this provision, the IRS would be able to sift through the bank records of any American with just $600 in annual transactions.

“$600.

“In other words, the IRS would be able to look through the bank records of just about every American and find out just how much you spent on Starbucks or your last doctor’s bill or that new winter coat.

“It’s staggering that Democrats could even contemplate giving that much power to an agency that has a track record of mishandling sensitive taxpayer information.

“But that’s the kind of power the president’s treasury secretary, for one, would like this agency to have.

“Mr. President, with their so-called Build Back Better plan, Democrats are proposing a massive expansion of government.

“And we’re apparently just supposed to take it on faith that the government will be able to handle all these new responsibilities.

“Well, I – and many other Americans – have my doubts.

“And the IRS provides a perfect example of why.

“The IRS can’t even properly handle the staff and responsibilities it already has.

“And yet Democrats think it’s a good idea to double the size of this agency and give it new enforcement powers – and, if some have their way, expanded access to Americans’ personal information.

“Mr. President, doubling the size of the IRS is a terrible idea.

“And it’s one more reason why ‘Build Back Better’ is a bad deal for the American people.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-garamendis-ocean-shipping-reform-act-passes-us-house,Johnson & Garamendi’s “Ocean Shipping Reform Act” Passes the U.S. House,2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the Ocean Shipping Reform Act passed the U.S. House by 364-60. This bill is the first major overhaul of federal regulations for the global shipping industry in over 30 years and was sponsored by U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and John Garamendi (D-CA). Click here for Johnson's full remarks during floor debate.

The Ocean Shipping Reform Act addresses the ongoing supply chain crisis and safeguards South Dakota agriculture exporters from unfair trade practices. It will ensure a more competitive global ocean shipping industry, protect American businesses and consumers from price gouging, and establish reciprocal trade opportunities to reduce the United States' longstanding trade imbalance with export-driven countries like China. The bipartisan legislation passed by the U.S. House of Representatives now heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

South Dakota businesses from Strider Bikes in Rapid City, S.D. to Valley Queen Cheese in Milbank, S.D. are experiencing port delays, equipment access issues; and declined bookings that have a negative impact on our local economy. More than 2 million pounds of lactose that's been sold, paid for; and is ready to ship is sitting in Valley Queen's warehouse waiting for an empty container to become available. The National Milk Producers Federation estimates that in the first six months of 2021, export supply chain challenges have cost the U.S. dairy sector nearly $1 billion in additional expenses, lost sales, and eroded value. According to a survey by the Ag Transportation Coalition, agriculture exporters report that 22% of their export sales are lost because it is not possible to deliver to foreign customers affordably and dependably due to supply chain delays.

The Ocean Shipping Reform Act is supported by more than 360 national, state and local groups and businesses. Johnson and Garamendi introduced the bill in August following months of severe supply chain delays and anti-competitive and unfair practices on behalf of foreign flagged ocean carriers.

""We've all been impacted by the backlog in the supply chain and shipping delays,"" said Johnson. ""China and the foreign flagged ocean carriers aren't playing fair, and accountability is long overdue. If you want to do business with American ports, you need to play by our basic rules. I am proud of the coalition Congressman Garamendi and I have worked to build over the last year. The Ocean Shipping Reform Act puts American consumers, farmers, ranchers, retailers, truckers, manufacturers, and small businesses first. Our bill passed the House with strong bipartisan support and I look forward to seeing it pass the Senate.""

""Access to the American market and its consumers is a privilege, not a right,"" Garamendi said. ""Congress must restore balance at our ports and tackle the longstanding trade imbalance our nation has with China and other countries head on. I am pleased that the ‘Ocean Shipping Reform Act' has passed the U.S. House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support, bringing us one step closer to protecting American consumers and businesses from price gouging by foreign-flagged ocean carriers. I continue working with my Republican colleague, Congressman Dusty Johnson of South Dakota, to enact our bipartisan bill into law.""

The Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2021 (H.R.4996) would:

Establish reciprocal trade to promote U.S. exports as part of the Federal Maritime Commission's (FMC) mission.

Require ocean carriers to adhere to minimum service standards that meet the public interest, reflecting best practices in the global shipping industry.

Require ocean carriers or marine terminal operators to certify that any late fees —known in maritime parlance as ""detention and demurrage"" charges—comply with federal regulations or face penalties.

Shift burden of proof regarding the reasonableness of ""detention or demurrage"" charges from the invoiced party to the ocean carrier.

Prohibit ocean carriers from declining opportunities for U.S. exports unreasonably, as determined by the FMC in new required federal rulemaking.

Require ocean common carriers to report to the FMC each calendar quarter on total import/export tonnage and twenty-foot equivalent units (loaded/empty) per vessel that makes port in the United States.

Congress last overhauled the Federal Maritime Commission's authority to regulate the global ocean shipping industry under the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 (Public Law 105-258). The People's Republic of China was granted permanent normal trade relations with the United States, so-called ""most-favored nation"" status, in December 2001 following the country's admission to the World Trade Organization. In 2001, the United States' trade imbalance with the People's Republic of China was approximately $83 billion in nominal dollars, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In 2020, our trade imbalance with mainland China was $310 billion, having increased year-over-year most years.

In late April 2020, the Federal Maritime Commission announced ""Fact Finding No. 29"" to investigate congestion, bottlenecks, and fees at our ports. In November 2020, the Commission expanded this investigation (Fact Finding No. 29) to include reports of ocean carriers declining to ship American exports.

On July 20, 2021, the FMC launched a new audit program to assess ocean carriers' compliance with federal regulations on detention and demurrage and increase the agency's monitoring of the marketplace for ocean cargo services. This action underscores the need for legislation.

The following organizations have endorsed the Ocean Shipping Reform Act (H.R.4996):

National Endorsements: Agriculture Transportation Coalition; National Industrial Transportation League; American Farm Bureau Federation; National Retail Federation; American Trucking Associations (ATA); American Apparel & Footwear Association; Agricultural & Food Transporters Conference, ATA; American Chemistry Council; American Cotton Shippers Association; American Feed Industry Association; American Pulse Association; American Seed Trade Association; Consumer Brands Association; Corn Refiners Association; Cotton Warehouse Association of America; Dairy Farmers of America; Hardwood Federation; Intermodal Motor Carrier Conference; International Dairy Foods Association; International Housewares Association; International Paper; Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, Inc.; Leather and Hide Council of America; Meat Import Council of America; National Association of State Departments of Agriculture; National Association of Chemical Distributors; National Chicken Council; National Cotton Council; National Council of Farmer Cooperatives; National Hay Association; National Milk Producers Federation; National Oilseed Processors Association; National Onion Association; National Pork Producers Council; North American Meat Institute; North American Renderers Association; Outdoor Industry Association; Pet Food Institute; Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance; The Fertilizer Institute; Travel Goods Association; Truckload Carriers Association; U.S. Dairy Export Council; U.S. Dry Bean Council; U.S. Forage Export Council; U.S. Meat Export Federation; U.S. Pea and Lentil Trade Association; United Fresh Produce Association; USA Dry Pea and Lentil Council; Western Agricultural Processors Association; Wine and Spirits Shippers Association

South Dakota Endorsements: South Dakota Dairy Producers Association; South Dakota Soybean Association; South Dakota Association of Cooperatives; South Dakota Grain & Feed Association; South Dakota Pork Producers Council; South Dakota Farm Bureau Federation and South Dakota Agri-Business Association",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnsons-cattle-contract-library-passes-us-house,Johnson’s “Cattle Contract Library” Passes the U.S. House,2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Ranking Member of the Livestock & Foreign Agriculture Subcommittee Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) led debate on the Cattle Contract Library Act (H.R. 5609) on the U.S. House floor. Tonight, his bill passed by 411-13 and heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

H.R. 5609 creates a library for cattle contracts within the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA's) Agriculture Marketing Service Department. Currently, cattlemen are unaware of contract terms being offered by packers, leading to a decline in leverage for smaller producers during price negotiations.

""Today marks a big win for cattle producers in South Dakota,"" said Johnson. ""Since I came to Congress, producers have made it clear they want transparency. The Cattle Contract Library provides just that and increases competition in an industry that desperately needs it. While no single piece of legislation can solve all problems, getting this bill across the finish line was a team effort, and I'm grateful to all of the producers that helped get this done.""

In October, the Cattle Contact Library Act unanimously passed out of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee. This is the first cattle market bill to pass out of the Agriculture Committee in over a year and follows the recommendation of the July 2020 Boxed Beef & Fed Cattle Price Spread Investigation Report. The investigation recommended the implementation of a cattle contract library.

Click here or on the image above to watch Johnson debate the Cattle Contract Library.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=4A772C47-A2CA-496A-902D-93331BF73BF7,Thune: South Dakotans Pay the Price at the Pump Amid Biden’s Energy Crisis,2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today called out the Biden administration for its egregious energy policies that are stifling American energy development through out-of-touch and overly burdensome regulations. Thune noted that the Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending spree would further drive up energy prices for South Dakota families and make energy less reliable.

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, Americans are currently dealing with the worst inflation in more than 30 years.

“High grocery prices, high rent prices, high gas prices, high car prices, increases in the price of household goods … the list goes on.

“Inflation is so bad that it has outstripped wage growth, resulting in a de facto pay cut for many Americans.

“Mr. President, one of the price hikes hitting Americans hard is the increase in the price of gas.

“Gas prices have risen 40 percent since President Biden took office.

“40 percent.

“That takes a tremendous toll on family budgets.

“And of course high gas prices and other energy costs contribute to price increases on a whole host of other goods.

“Manufacturers facing higher transportation costs thanks to high gas prices, for example, are likely to pass on at least some of those increased costs to consumers in the form of price hikes.

“In my home state of South Dakota, families are facing an increase in home heating costs as high as 50 to 100 percent, depending on how severe of a winter we face.

“Nationwide, concerns over high heating costs this winter have been tempered by mild weather so far, but predictions of huge home energy bills could return with a period of sustained harsh weather.

“And that would be another financial blow for families whose budgets are already severely stretched by our current inflation crisis.

“It’s easy for, say, a wealthy Democrat politician to dismiss the consequences of inflation, but for families living paycheck to paycheck, an increase in the grocery bill or heating costs or the cost of a tank of gas can mean tough decisions – like choosing between adequately heating the house or filling the car to get to a job.

“So what has President Biden been doing to help alleviate rising energy prices and inflation?

“Well, the answer is, not much.

“First, he pleaded with the OPEC cartel to increase oil production and increase global supply, which is the single most influential factor when it comes to gas prices.

“OPEC was unmoved.

“Then the president recently announced the release of 50 million barrels of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve – a move that Congress had, in part, already mandated.

“Unfortunately, this is nothing more than a short-term relief measure – if that – as it will do little to give our energy sector the certainty it is seeking to bring production and American energy jobs back online.

“Mr. President, while Democrats helped create the inflation crisis we’re experiencing by flooding the economy with unnecessary government money earlier this year, the president is not solely to blame for high energy prices, which have also been driven up by COVID-related issues.

“However, the president is certainly to blame for the hostile attitude his administration has displayed toward conventional energy production.

“And he is certainly to blame for the reckless tax-and-spending spree he is pushing, which would further drive up energy prices for American families.

“The president made clear his attitude toward conventional energy production on day one of his administration, when he canceled the Keystone XL pipeline – an environmentally responsible pipeline project that was already underway and that would have delivered more than 10,000 construction jobs and helped decrease energy costs by increasing regional energy supply, all while being fully offset with a $1.7 billion investment in renewable energy.

“The president also almost immediately banned new oil and gas leases on federal lands – sending a clear signal to oil and gas producers that his administration would be reluctant to work with them to increase American energy production.

“Then of course there was the release of the first outlines of the president’s reckless tax-and-spending plan, which displayed a clear hostility to conventional energy.

“Given this record, it’s no surprise that many energy producers have been less than enthusiastic about coming fully back online as we emerge from the pandemic.

“The market signals to increase production are being muted by this administration’s burdensome policies and clear intent of sidelining American energy development.

“Then there’s the current version of the reckless tax-and-spending spree, which Democrats are pushing to pass in the very near future.

“This legislation will not only likely worsen our current inflation situation, it will also make our energy less reliable and more expensive.

“If Democrats succeed in passing their legislation, American families will have to brace themselves for even higher energy bills.

“One major driver of those higher energy bills will be the bill’s new fee – or tax – on methane, which is targeted at crippling the natural gas sector that spurred America’s recent energy renaissance and has actually been the largest driver of coal displacement.

“The American Gas Association says the proposed fee could add as much as 34 percent to natural gas bills.

“And that’s on top of any increases Americans may already be facing.

“As I mentioned earlier, home heating bills are already projected to rise as much as 50 to 100 percent in my state this winter – and that’s without the reckless tax-and-spending spree piling on.

“And if progressive Democrats have their way, Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree could also penalize our oil and gas sector by ending longstanding tax provisions like the percentage depletion deduction, which underpins an overwhelming number of independent producers representing roughly 90 percent of wells drilled in the U.S.

“Simply put, this administration wants to make it more expensive and more difficult to develop our abundant energy resources in favor of their preferred energy technologies and electric vehicles – with predictable consequences for Americans’ pocketbooks.

“And a word about those electric vehicles, Mr. President.

“The president’s transportation secretary recently suggested that families feeling the pinch of high gas prices could solve their problem by buying an electric vehicle, which would allow them to, quote, ‘never have to worry about gas prices again.’

“Well, I have news for the president’s transportation secretary: A lot of Americans can’t afford to replace their car with an electric vehicle.

“Not to mention that electric cars and trucks are still not a practical option for many Americans for other reasons.

“Secretary Buttigieg’s statement shows just how out of touch Democrats have become with ordinary Americans.

“Mr. President, I know Democrats are deeply invested in their Green New Deal fantasies of an instant, mostly electric energy regime.

“But the reality is that American consumers will need to use liquid fuels and electricity and heat from natural gas well into the future.

“And punishing or discouraging responsible American energy development in oil and natural gas will do nothing but drive up energy prices for consumers and force our nation to rely more on oil and gas imports from unstable areas of the world.

“We should be encouraging American energy development of every kind – from oil and natural gas to wind, solar, and biofuels – not artificially picking winners and losers and discouraging essential production.

“And with American consumers struggling with long-term inflation, the last thing we need to be doing right now is passing legislation that will drive up energy prices.

“Unfortunately, if Democrats have their way and succeed in passing their tax-and-spending legislation, Americans will soon be able to add even higher energy bills to the list of challenges they’re currently facing.

“So much for ‘building back better’ for the American people.

“Mr. President, while I’m on the topic of energy, I’d like to briefly comment on yesterday’s announcements from the EPA and USDA concerning biofuels.

“To put it simply, the administration can’t have it both ways on the renewable fuel standard, something agriculture stakeholders in South Dakota know all too well.

“Yesterday the EPA announced a proposal to take the unprecedented step of clawing back previously set biofuel blending targets.

“2020 volumes would be reduced by 2.5 billion gallons, and 2021 would see a reduction.

“Now, the EPA is trying to sell this by simultaneously proposing an increase in the 2022 blending volumes, which on its own would be favorable.

“But it’s far from enough to make up for the lost gallons.

“And keep in mind that the EPA’s proposal pulls back blending obligations from a final rule, giving stakeholders little confidence that this promised 2022 increase won’t meet the same fate.

“Again, not every component of yesterday’s announcement is bad on its own.

“Signaling an end to the out-of-control small refinery exemption program is long overdue, and it is consistent with the renewable fuel standard and a 10th Circuit ruling.

“It’s also good to see the Department of Agriculture moving forward with assistance funds for biofuel producers, but this was funding signed into law last December.

“It’s almost as if it was withheld from our producers for months so that USDA could help the EPA sell our ag stakeholders a bill of goods.

“Mr. President, I urge the administration to make good on its commitments to our farmers and finally leverage American biofuels for the energy and environmental solution they can provide.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=599BE2E4-5980-420F-B68D-EA7077EF00C1,"Thune, Markey Introduce Bill to Support Efforts to Crack Down on Illegal Robocall Scams",2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.), authors of the Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act and members of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today introduced the Robocall Trace Back Enhancement Act, which would help bolster privately led efforts to trace back the origins of illegal and bothersome robocalls. Thune and Markey have long advocated for consumer rights and protection from illegal robocalls and for holding scammers and other bad actors accountable.

“Robocall scams are designed to intentionally prey on vulnerable individuals,” said Thune. “In 2019, Congress passed my TRACED Act to help address unwanted and illegal robocalls, and the bipartisan legislation we’re introducing today would build on those efforts by supporting privately led efforts to trace back and identify the origins of the calls. We must continue to hold these bad actors accountable, and I thank Sen. Markey for his continued support and leadership on this effort.”

“When Senator Thune and I passed the TRACED Act, our goal was simple: stop the scourge of robocalls plaguing Americans. Our law is already having an impact stopping illegal robocalls by blocking fraudulent calls before our cell phones even ring,” said Markey. “The Robocall Trace Back Enhancement Act is a natural extension of the TRACED Act. This legislation makes it easier to root out bad actors who illegally robocall countless phone numbers by promoting public accountability among, and aggressive action against, those responsible for illegal, fraudulent, and abusive robocalls. I am proud to partner with Senator Thune as we make it clear that there are no blue robocalls or red robocalls – there are only despised robocalls.”

On January 17, 2019, Thune and Markey introduced the TRACED Act, legislation to combat the rise of illegal robocalls. It was enacted in December 2019 and, among other things, required the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to designate an entity to conduct privately led efforts to trace back the origin of suspected illegal robocalls, which it did in July 2020 by selecting USTelecom-The Broadband Association’s Industry Traceback Group (ITG) as the official consortium. In August 2021, the FCC re-designated the ITG as the official consortium.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=7C3E31A8-2E6E-46FF-BACF-F0E2F67B1285,"Thune, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Ban ‘Dark Patterns’",2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, today re-introduced the Deceptive Experiences to Online Users Reduction (DETOUR) Act to prohibit large online platforms from using deceptive user interfaces, known as “dark patterns,” to trick consumers into handing over their personal data. The DETOUR Act would also prohibit these platforms from using features that result in compulsive usage by children.

“We live in an environment where large online operators often deploy manipulative practices or ‘dark patterns’ to obtain consent to collect user data,” said Thune. “This bipartisan legislation would create a path forward to strengthen consumer transparency by holding large online operators accountable when they subject their users to behavioral or psychological research for the purpose of promoting engagement on their platforms.”

The term “dark patterns” is used to describe online interfaces in websites and apps designed to intentionally manipulate users into taking actions they would otherwise not. These design tactics, drawn from extensive behavioral psychology research, are frequently used by social media platforms to mislead consumers into agreeing to settings and practices advantageous to the company.

The Deceptive Experiences To Online Users Reduction (DETOUR) Act aims to curb manipulative behavior by prohibiting the largest online platforms (those with over 100 million monthly active users) from relying on user interfaces that intentionally impair user autonomy, decision-making, or choice. The legislation:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=94BC5B55-6A0F-484A-8F2B-6C5E02F1EF63,Senate Vote Will Highlight Bipartisan Opposition to Biden’s Overreaching Federal Vaccine Mandate,2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today spoke out against President Biden’s overbearing federal vaccine mandate on American workers and businesses. Thune stressed that this mandate is not the proper role of the federal government and that there will be a bipartisan Senate vote to overturn the mandate later today.

Thune’s remarks below:

“I think sometimes, you know, issues come into clear view that really illustrate the choice between big government and individual freedom. And this issue probably does that better than anything.

“Now, when Democrats gain power, which they have now in Washington, D.C., they have the whole of government, they have the House, the Senate, and the White House, what typically happens is they want to grow and expand government, the reach of government into people's lives. We've seen that, it's evidenced in the reckless tax-and-spending spree bill that we're talking about, they're talking about, right now. It’s evidenced in their attempt to take over elections in this country from states.

“It is this inertia that the Democrats have when they gain power to try and grow and expand government. And in this particular case, they really have gone too far.

“And I say that as somebody who, like some of my colleagues, is pro-vaccine. I've been vaccinated, I encourage people to get vaccinated, but I don't believe that that's something that the federal government can mandate for businesses around this country. And we're going to have an opportunity on the floor of the United States [Senate] to overturn this mandate and to express our support for American businesses and American workers.

“Because in the end, you've heard this, and I've heard it. I've seen it my state, I've talked to constituents who have are dealing with this on a daily basis. They are extremely concerned about the impact this will have on an already stretched and strapped workforce around this country.

“This is not something that the federal government should be interfering with when it comes to the choices made by the American people. The courts have already ruled and continue to rule, they continue to overturn this mandate. But that has not deterred or stopped the Democrats from, you know, proceeding headlong to try and impose this onerous, heavy-handed mandate on businesses and workers across this country.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/south-dakota-employers-white-house-vaccine-mandates-will-cause-serious,South Dakota Employers to White House: Vaccine Mandates Will Cause Serious Workforce Problems,2021-12-07,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) communicated to President Biden serious employer concerns with the President's vaccine mandates. During a series of roundtables with South Dakota businesses, several concerns were highlighted regarding workforce participation, retention, and the ability to meet goals when faced with vaccination mandates.

""Multiple businesses have stated that since the mandate's announcement, they have experienced issues hiring consultants, subcontractors, and fully remote workers because such individuals do not want to be subject to mandatory vaccination,"" said Johnson. ""Many employers who contract with the federal government rely on subcontractor labor, including Quinn Construction in Rapid City, South Dakota. Regretfully, Quinn Construction will likely be forced to pass on upcoming Ellsworth Air Force Base bids due to their inability to find the workers necessary to complete the projects.

""Another large DoD contractor based in South Dakota expressed their view that the government is ""pushing away"" the best talent our nation has to offer from working towards the national security of our federal government.""

Johnson sought clarification on behalf of the businesses in South Dakota including plans to counter decreased labor participation because of the mandate, the definition of ""fully vaccinated,"" and test-out options.

The full letter can be found here or below:

The Honorable Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

President of the United States

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Washington, D.C. 20500

Dear Mr. President:

Throughout the past few weeks, I hosted a series of roundtable discussions with several business leaders in South Dakota to hear their concerns with your administration's vaccine mandates. I write to share the perspectives I gathered from those discussions and to ask for clarification on questions many private businesses and federal contractors are struggling with nationwide.

To be clear, I do not support the mandates. While I believe in the vaccine, I also believe in a limited federal government. The vaccine is safe and effective, but a mandate at the federal level raises serious constitutional, ethical, and practical concerns.

First and foremost, the main concern I heard from employers is the effect on workforce participation the mandate will have on both retaining current employees and hiring new talent. A mining and mineral processing facility in Rapid City, South Dakota, stated their employees are ""more anti-mandate than anti-vaccine."" Multiple businesses have stated that since the mandate's announcement, they have experienced issues hiring consultants, subcontractors, and fully remote workers because such individuals do not want to be subject to mandatory vaccination. Many employers who contract with the federal government rely on subcontractor labor, including Quinn Construction in Rapid City, South Dakota. Regretfully, Quinn Construction will likely be forced to pass on upcoming Ellsworth Air Force Base bids due to their inability to find the workers necessary to complete the projects.

For LaCreek Development, a general contractor in Martin, South Dakota, Native Americans make up about 85 percent of their employees. Due, in part, to a historic distrust of the federal government, the vaccination rate within the Oglala Sioux Tribe is 41 percent. ""There is a lot of fear"" of the vaccine, and LaCreek has seen willingness to work for federal projects sharply decline. This mandate will have devastating effects on employment in predominately Native areas.

Contractors in the energy and defense sectors provide vital services for the federal government – services that would pose major national security threats if interrupted. Businesses such as East River Electric, a wholesale power supply cooperative in eastern South Dakota, rely on highly specialized employees to run their transmission system along with their power suppliers who operate generating facilities. These employees throughout the power delivery system have decades of experience that would take many months to replace. The energy services that utility companies throughout South Dakota provide are essential. If they are not adequately staffed, the reliability of the United States' power grid would be at stake.

Black Hills Ammunition in Rapid City, South Dakota provides special operations ammunition to the Department of Defense (DoD). Due to the mandate, it will be ""difficult for [them] to meet [their] goals as a federal contractor"" if they must let workers go for being unvaccinated. Their ammunition product is ""something that the government needs, but if [they] don't have enough people, it will be difficult to make those contracts."" Another large DoD contractor based in South Dakota expressed their view that the government is ""pushing away"" the best talent our nation has to offer from working towards the national security of our federal government.

Additionally, the leaders I spoke with shared they felt the burden was placed on them as employers to implement the mandate. A large production facility in Aberdeen, South Dakota, is struggling with the collection and tracking of employee vaccination status. A construction company in Rapid City, South Dakota, feels ""to put [this burden] on the employers is a really bitter pill."" Black Hills Ammunition also feels conflicted, stating they feel uncomfortable the federal government is forcing workers into being dishonest and ""pushing workers into [claiming] a religious objection"" who in reality simply wish to not be vaccinated. Quinn Construction is struggling with the bilateral agreements from the federal government they are expected to sign; ""it's very hard to sign something that says we will agree to whatever you say in the future.""

Finally, many businesses expressed they find a vaccine mandate unnecessary to keep their employees safe. Each business leader I spoke with detailed the many ways they kept their folks safe during the pandemic, including mask mandates, physical distancing, expanded sick days, even hosting vaccine clinics at their places of work. An electric and natural gas provider in South Dakota saw no more than three reported transmissions of COVID-19 in the workplace throughout the past 21 months. Another large DoD contractor in South Dakota never had to shut down operations during the pandemic and stated ""the directive from the government did not add anything new to what we were doing"" to keep employees safe.

There remain several unanswered questions, and I respectfully request clarification on the following from your administration within the next 30 days:

Can you ensure our national security will not be at risk due to the ramifications of your mandate?

What is your plan to counter the unavoidable decreased labor participation effects of your mandate?

Please clarify the scope of the federal contractor mandate as it regards ""spillover"":

If one employee independently participates in a contract, is the rest of their office now covered by the mandate? If a federal contractor business shares an office building with a non-contracted business, are they now covered?

Please clarify the definition of fully vaccinated.

Are those possessing antibodies from a previous infection considered ""fully vaccinated""?

Are booster shots required to be considered ""fully vaccinated""?

Will you consider adding a test-out option for federal contractors, similar to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration Emergency Temporary Standard?

Please clarify what directives employers should follow when state law conflicts with federal law as it relates to your vaccine mandate.

Our country is facing serious domestic issues: the supply chain crisis, record-low workforce participation rates, and a great sense of division between everyday Americans. This mandate will only make these issues worse. I implore you to consider the items outlined above, and I look forward to hearing answers to the questions raised.

Sincerely,

Dusty Johnson

Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rounds-submits-comment-to-protect-integrity-of-meat-and-poultry-product-labeling-standards,Rounds Submits Comment to Protect Integrity of Meat and Poultry Product Labeling Standards,2021-12-07,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) submitted a comment to the proposed U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) rulemaking that could allow terms such as “meat”, “steak” or “poultry” to be used on foods that are artificially produced. Rounds argues allowing these terms to be used on lab grown food products is confusing and misleading to consumers, and puts ranchers and farmers’ reputations and livelihoods at risk. In his comment, Rounds urged the USDA to provide transparency and accuracy in its labeling of cell cultured foods.

In his comment to the USDA, Rounds writes, “Simply put, lab grown food products are not equivalent to meat and poultry products born, raised and harvested in the traditional manner. Pursuant to applicable federal laws, the FSIS should promulgate clear, accurate and fair regulations governing the labeling of these cell cultured foods so they cannot be confused with traditional meat and poultry products.”

Rounds continues, “As public servants, we can never forget our solemn responsibility to assist – not harm – those that we have been called to serve. We must remember that regulatory decisions can have far reaching consequences not only for America’s farm and ranch families but for consumers and the entire economy.”

Read Rounds’ comment to the USDA by clicking here.

Background:

Since he was elected to the Senate, Sen. Rounds has led numerous efforts to provide solutions to the problems faced by independent cattle producers and beef consumers. Most recently, he:

Introduced the USA Beef Act to limit the use of the “Product of USA” label only to beef products that are born, raised and slaughtered in the United States. Current USDA rules allow for foreign beef raised in other countries to receive this label. This bill outlaws this current practice and restores integrity to a currently misleading, but ultimately valuable tool for consumers and cattle producers.

Submitted a comment in opposition of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Center for Public Policy (NCBA) petition which called for the elimination of the “Product of USA” label and the creation of a new “Processed in USA” label.

Cosponsored a bill to restore mandatory country of origin labeling (MCOOL) for beef.

Introduced the Meat Packing Special Investigator Act with Sens. Tester and Grassley to give the U.S. Department of Agriculture the tools to investigate anticompetitive practices in the cattle market.

Led a group of 26 colleagues with Sen. Tina Smith (D-Minn.) in calling on the attorney general to investigate the meatpacking industry to determine if antitrust violations exist.

Addressed cattle producers during a virtual town hall focused on meatpacker concentration in the cattle industry.

Reintroduced legislation with Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) to allow meat and poultry products inspected by state Meat and Poultry Inspection (MPI) programs to be sold across state lines.

Introduced bipartisan legislation to foster more competitive cattle markets by requiring that a minimum of 50 percent of a meatpacker’s weekly volume of cattle purchases take place on the open or spot market.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=4F46D115-AE02-4DA0-A8F6-0DFF58917ABD,Thune Honors Two Members of the Greatest Generation: South Dakotan Marcella LeBeau and Former Senator Bob Dole,2021-12-07,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today spoke on the Senate floor regarding the passing of World War II veteran and South Dakota native Marcella LeBeau and former U.S. Sen. Bob Dole (R-Kan.), who will lie in state in the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, December 9.

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, before I begin, I want to take a few minutes to honor two members of the Greatest Generation we’ve lost recently – Marcella LeBeau and Bob Dole.

“Marcella LeBeau died on Sunday, November 21.

“She was from my home state of South Dakota and a member of the Two Kettle Band of the Cheyenne River Sioux who served in the Army Nurse Corps during World War II, including time on the front lines treating the wounded at the Battle of the Bulge.

“She was decorated by both France and Belgium for her service.

“After the war, she returned to South Dakota, spending 31 years working for the Indian Health Service, including as director of nursing, while raising eight children.

“She was a powerful advocate for Native Americans throughout her life, and was a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Council for four years and a founding member of the North American Indian Women’s Association.

“Even in retirement, Marcella continued to advocate for Native Americans – and also found time to open a quilting shop with her granddaughter, featuring, among other things, the Lakota star quilt, used for honoring and naming ceremonies, memorials, and various life achievements.

“Earlier in November, she traveled to Oklahoma to attend the ceremony for her induction into the National Native American Hall of Fame.

“Mr. President, Bob Dole died on Sunday.

“Bob served as an officer in the 10th Mountain Division during World War II.

“Late in the war, he was seriously wounded in action during an attempt to rescue a fellow soldier, and he bore the resulting injuries for the rest of his life.

“Forced by his wounds to abandon his plans to be a surgeon, he quickly found another way to help his fellow Americans:

“Public service.

“He was elected to the Kansas House of Representatives in 1950 and never looked back.

“In 1960, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, and in 1968 he won election to the U.S. Senate, where he served for 27 years.

“He was a senator’s senator, a master of procedure and a true legislator, whose achievements ranged from Social Security reform to veterans legislation to the Americans With Disabilities Act.

“Even after he ended his long career in public service, Bob continued to serve.

“He was an important supporter of the World War II Memorial here in D.C., and could often be found there visiting with his fellow veterans who had traveled in on Honor Flights.

“Mr. President, Marcella and Bob came from different places and different backgrounds, and so far as I know, never crossed paths in this life.

“But they had in common that abiding commitment to service that characterized so many members of the Greatest Generation.

“Both Bob and Marcella spent their entire lives serving their country and their fellow citizens.

“Even retirement didn’t slow them down.

“Mr. President, the Greatest Generation was a fixture of American life for many decades.

“But its members are rapidly slipping away.

“Fewer than 250,000 of the 16 million Americans who served in World War II are still with us.

“And that number dwindles every day.

“We need to make sure that the passing of the Greatest Generation does not mean the passing of the virtues they modeled for us: Humility and patriotism and quiet service. Duty and perseverance.

“We need to remember Bob Dole and Marcella LeBeau – and the many others like them – who in war and in peace lived lives of service to our country.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=9E6CAA54-1629-4861-8CF6-3E4A855F2767,"Thune: Democrats Give Millionaires Massive Tax Breaks, Working Families Left in the Dust",2021-12-07,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today discussed the massive tax breaks for millionaires in the Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending spree. Thune noted that middle-income, working families would be forced to fund the Democrats’ radical bill that would significantly expand the role of the federal government into their daily lives.

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, Democrats continue to work on their reckless tax-and-spending spree … or perhaps I should say their reckless tax-and-spending disaster.

“Tax hikes, deficit spending, inflationary spending … it’s all there in Democrats’ spending package.

“Plus, of course, that tax break for wealthy Americans.

“Yes, you heard me right.

“A tax break for millionaires.

“I’m talking, of course, about Democrats’ expansion of the state and local tax deduction – known as the SALT deduction – which would overwhelmingly benefit affluent taxpayers in mainly Democrat-led states, and do almost nothing for middle- and lower-income families.

“Mr. President, for months and months Democrats have been going on about the need for the wealthy to pay their “fair share” of taxes.

“Which is why I find it the height of irony that Democrats’ current bill contains a substantial tax break for wealthy Americans.

“I’m not surprised that Democrats kept SALT out of the Ways and Means Committee markup.

“After constantly talking about making the wealthy pay their “fair share,” it’s a little awkward to publicly debate your tax break for the wealthy.

“Instead, Democrats stuffed the tax break into their reconciliation bill under the subtitle of – of all things – ‘Social Safety Net.’

“Yes.

“Social safety net.

“Who benefits from this particular ‘safety net,’ exactly?

“About 94 percent of the tax benefit would go to the top 20 percent of earners.

“About 70 percent would go to the top 5 percent of earners.

“And nearly one-third of the tax benefit would go to the top 1 percent of households.

“The average tax savings for middle-income households from raising the SALT cap would be $20.

“$20.

“Meanwhile, millionaires would receive an average tax cut of about $14,900.

“I guess the priorities of wealthy Democrat donors in blue states trump Democrats’ plans to make wealthy Americans pay their ‘fair share.’

“Mr. President, not only does the bill contain a tax break for millionaires; this tax break is one of the most expensive parts of the bill.

“In fact, it’s the second-most expensive item in the House-passed bill over the next five years.

“That’s right.

“According to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, only Democrats’ child care and pre-K programs would exceed the cost of raising the SALT cap.

“Given their rhetoric, you would think that Democrats might have chosen to forgo this tax break for the wealthy and spend the money on one of their other programs that they fund for only part of their bill’s 10-year budget window.

“But no.

“This tax break is apparently so important to Democrats that they are willing to shortchange some of their other priorities in order to include it.

“Mr. President, we’ve also heard a lot from Democrats about how corporations need to pay their fair share – which I guess is whatever Democrats determine it to be.

“And Democrats’ bill does include a corporate minimum tax.

“Except it turns out that it’s not really a corporate minimum tax since some corporations won’t have to pay the full tax.

“Democrats have carved out certain exceptions to the corporate minimum tax, including clean energy tax credits.

“So if you’re a corporation engaged in Democrat-approved activities, you’ll be able to avoid paying some or all of the corporate minimum tax.

“If you don’t qualify for Democrats’ approved carveouts, on the other hand, you can look forward to paying the full tax.

“Mr. President, Democrats’ hypocrisy might be amusing if this bill weren’t so dangerous.

“But unfortunately there’s not much to laugh about when it comes to this bill.

“Democrats’ ‘Build Back Better’ spending disaster will pour $1.75 trillion in government money into an already overheated economy, which will likely prolong the serious inflation we’re currently experiencing.

“Democrats helped create our current inflation situation by flooding the economy with a lot of unnecessary government money earlier this year.

“And now Democrats are going to pour another $1.75 trillion onto the inflationary fire.

“American families are already experiencing the worst inflation in more than 30 years.

“I don’t want to even think about what inflation will look like if Democrats succeed in passing another $1.75 trillion in government spending.

“Mr. President, I say $1.75 trillion.

“But of course Democrats only arrived at that number through a series of shell games and budget gimmicks.

“The real cost of Democrats’ bill is much, much higher.

“An honest accounting of the bill puts the number in the range of $4.5 to nearly $5 trillion.

“$5 trillion.

“To put that number in perspective, the entire federal budget for fiscal year 2019 was $4.4 trillion.

“The entire federal budget.

“Mr. President, Democrats are proposing a major expansion of government.

“And they are deceiving the American people into thinking that it can be paid for with $1.75 trillion.

“That is simply not true.

“Democrats arrive at that number by putting some of their provisions – from tax measures to new programs – into place for as little as a year.

“But of course Democrats don’t have the slightest intention of having those tax measures or new programs expire after a year or two, or ever.

“Take their child allowance.

“Democrats’ legislation would have their child allowance sunset in one year.

“One year.

“But of course Democrats fully intend for their child allowance to be permanent.

“But by only funding the child allowance and other measures for a fraction of their bill’s 10-year budget window, they can disguise the true cost of permanently implementing these measures – and how much these measures will end up costing the American people.

“And these programs will cost them.

“Democrats may talk about funding their legislation with taxes on corporations and the wealthy, but ordinary Americans are going to be paying for a major part of the bill.

“A substantial part of Democrats’ tax increases on businesses and investment will be passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices or reduced services.

“And those price hikes will come on top of the inflation we’re already experiencing – and the additional inflation we’re likely to experience as a result of this bill.

“Americans are also likely to pay for this legislation with decreased economic growth and fewer economic opportunities.

“And they may pay in further tax hikes when Democrats try to extend their programs and need to come up with money to at least partially pay for them.

“Mr. President, I am hard-pressed to think of anything more irresponsible than Democrats passing this legislation at this time.

“As I mentioned, inflation is currently at a 30-year high.

“American families are struggling with high gas prices, high grocery bills, high rent prices, the high price of used cars … the list goes on.

“And yet Democrats are planning to pass a bill that is likely to worsen our inflation situation and extend our current inflation crisis even further.

“Not to mention driving up our deficit and worsening our country’s fiscal health.

“Mr. President, we don’t know what government money will be needed down the road.

“We’re emerging from a pandemic that required a lot of unexpected government expenditure.

“And we don’t know what other challenges our country will end up facing in the future.

“Yet Democrats are planning to keep spending as if there’s no tomorrow, with absolutely no regard for our current inflation situation or for possible future needs.

“It’s deeply irresponsible, Mr. President.

“And if Democrats succeed in passing their spending spree, the American people will be paying a very steep price for decades to come.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/weekly-column/guest-column-helping-veterans-is-the-right-thing-to-do,Guest Column: Helping Veterans is the Right Thing to Do,2021-12-06,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"This guest column is written by Mike Bekaert. Mike is the Director of In-State Military and Veteran Affairs for U.S. Senator Mike Rounds. Mike served 30 years in the U.S. Army and Army National Guard. He graduated from the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy and retired from the South Dakota National Guard as the sixth State Command Sergeant Major.

I often tell people I am living the dream and I have one of the best jobs in the world. For 30 years I served in the military and now I spend my days trying to help the men and women who served beside me, the veterans I never met and the families of veterans who are unable to advocate for themselves.

I am humbled to be the boots on the ground for more than 72,000 veterans that call South Dakota home. And I am honored to work for a Senator who cares so deeply about our veterans.

In 2021, approximately 25 percent of the inquiries we received in our office were from veterans. Some needed help scheduling appointments through the VA, some needed help deciphering the medical bills they were receiving and others needed help retrieving their military records.

While on the surface these may sound like simple requests, for anyone who has had to wade through the bureaucracy of some federal agencies, you know that each request can bring its own set of challenges. Thankfully, I’m not alone. We have a team of constituent service representatives who serve the people of South Dakota. It’s a tough job that requires a lot of persistence and compassion.

Let me give you a couple of examples of the challenges we face on a daily basis. Our office worked with one Korean War veteran who did not have a copy of his military medical records. During his time in service, he sustained injuries that put him in the hospital in Japan, Hawaii and Denver, yet he was unable to use VA services because his records were lost. This man had been injured defending his country – and all of us – but he was unable to get the medical care he needed.

Long story short, we were able to locate the records and not only did he receive the help he needed, he was also eligible for six years of retroactive pay for his full disability. It’s a happy ending, but he shouldn’t have had to fight for what was rightfully his.

Another example can be found in a veteran who contacted our office after a seven-year appeal to obtain the military benefits he earned. He was moving to hospice care due to terminal cancer and he wanted the benefits to make sure his family was taken care of. We were able to get the benefits in order the day before this man passed away. Surely someone who put his life on the life for us shouldn’t have to spend his final days fighting the government for the money he was owed.

The bottom line is, our country needs to do better by our veterans. As any veteran knows, the concurrent receipt issue needs to be figured out so that our veterans don’t have to lose their disability retirement income for their disability benefits. Veterans need more access to VA and VA approved doctors and health resources. And veterans need good health insurance from the day they enter the military until the day they die.

Senator Rounds continues to look for and promote legislation that will benefit our veterans because it’s the right thing to do. And he continues to push his staff to serve those people that served us. We truly are making a difference – one veteran at a time.

John F. Kennedy summed it up best when he said this of our veterans – “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” Or as I like to tell people – we don’t know them, but we owe them.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=00DE0D92-9B93-4F9D-A7E0-94506907EF64,Thune to Oppose Rosenworcel as FCC Chair,2021-12-06,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, today released the following statement in opposition to the nomination of Jessica Rosenworcel to serve a new five-year term beginning July 1, 2020 and as chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

“I’ve said for years that the internet should remain open and free, and any attempt by the FCC to use Title II to create net neutrality restrictions would turn it into a government-regulated utility and stifle our nation’s dynamic and robust e-commerce sector,” said Thune. “During her nomination hearing, Acting Chairwoman Rosenworcel reiterated her position that the FCC should reinstate Obama-era net neutrality regulations, which will once again lead to legal and marketplace uncertainty. For that reason, I oppose her nomination.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rounds-questions-va-secretary-mcdonough-on-implementation-of-mission-act,Rounds Questions VA Secretary McDonough on Implementation of MISSION Act,2021-12-04,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON —U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) released the following statement after a Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC) hearing on Wednesday where he questioned VA Secretary Denis McDonough on claims the VA’s Care In The Community administrators are purposely limiting a Veteran’s ability to seek care from a local healthcare provider.

“The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is changing its existing referral process by implementing the Referral Coordination Initiative (RCI). According to the VHA’s RCI guidebook, this initiative “shifts the referral responsibility from providers to Referral Coordination Teams (RCTs) which include clinical and administrative staff.” said Rounds.

A recent USA Today news investigation published on November 1, 2021, shows a disturbing trend of VA administrators overruling decisions made between veterans and their providers to seek care in the community. The article states: “A review of thousands of pages of department manuals and medical records, along with interviews with dozens of patients, advocates and providers, shows that VA administrators are overruling doctors’ judgments and preventing them from sending their patients outside the VA health care system.”

“I think it goes back down to dollars and cents,” said Rounds. “I have concerns that these examples are not isolated and that they could be the result of the implementation of the RCI in a way that diminishes a veteran’s ability to receive care from a local healthcare provider.”

To watch the full exchange, please visit: https://youtu.be/x9P6szNOJHE

If you or a family member are being restricted by the VA from using the Care in the Community Benefit you’ve earned, please contact one of our local offices. We can be reached toll free at 844-875-5268 or by sending an email through our website rounds.senate.gov.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=F5AF9EF3-6F1A-438B-BBF6-9FE8B04F9C54,"Thune, Stabenow Applaud USDA’s Announcement to Give Producers More Flexibility on Prevented Plant Acres",2021-12-03,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), a longtime member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, and Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), chairwoman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, applauded the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Risk Management Agency for implementing their recommendation to remove the arbitrary November 1 restriction for harvesting or grazing cover crops on prevented plant acres, which will give greater flexibility to producers in northern areas of the United States.

“I have been a staunch advocate for this common-sense change for years, and I’m glad to see USDA is implementing our recommendation to remove the November 1 restriction,” said Thune. “It’s imperative for Congress and this administration to support producers who use cover crops by working to remove arbitrary barriers in order to ensure their success.”

“With this update, USDA will encourage more cover cropping by making sure farmers don’t face a crop insurance penalty when extreme weather causes them to miss planting season,” said Stabenow. “That’s going to mean healthier soils, less erosion and better capacity to capture carbon, and it’s why Senator Thune and I called for this similar approach in the Cover Crop Flexibility Act.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=F2CFFBA3-3A2E-4D8F-B6AE-78CC6F016A3A,"Thune, Tester Lead Colleagues in Requesting Assistance for Livestock Producers Affected by Drought",2021-12-01,2021,2021-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), a longtime member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, and Jon Tester (D-Mont.) today led a bipartisan group of senators in urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) to address a gap in coverage under the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP). In September, USDA announced it would provide ELAP assistance for the cost of transporting feed to livestock, but producers who are transporting their livestock to feed are not eligible for the program.

“[W]e continue to hear from producers who have been severely affected by drought this year and have incurred costs related to transporting their livestock to feed sources instead of hauling feed to their livestock,” the senators wrote. “Under current regulations, these producers are not eligible for ELAP transportation assistance. We respectfully request that FSA exercise its authority to further improve ELAP by providing payments to producers for a portion of the costs they have incurred from transporting their livestock to feed sources.”

The letter was also signed by U.S. Sens. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.), and Tina Smith (D-Minn.).

Full letter below:

The Honorable Zach Ducheneaux

Administrator

U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency

1400 Independence Avenue, S.W.

Washington, D.C., 20250

Dear Administrator Ducheneaux:

As the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) continues working to assist farmers and ranchers affected by this year’s widespread and devastating drought, we write to request that the agency address a gap in coverage under the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP).

As you know, ELAP plays a critical role in assisting producers who face losses due to adverse weather events like the severe drought across the country this year. We appreciate USDA’s recent efforts to improve ELAP coverage by reimbursing producers for a portion of their feed transportation costs and by lowering the threshold for assistance for water transportation costs.

While livestock producers welcomed these improvements to ELAP assistance, we continue to hear from producers who have been severely affected by drought this year and have incurred costs related to transporting their livestock to feed sources instead of hauling feed to their livestock. Under current regulations, these producers are not eligible for ELAP transportation assistance. We respectfully request that FSA exercise its authority to further improve ELAP by providing payments to producers for a portion of the costs they have incurred from transporting their livestock to feed sources.

It is critically important that USDA disaster programs appropriately respond to the challenges that farmers and ranchers face during difficult times. Thank you for your efforts on behalf of U.S. agriculture and for your prompt consideration of this request.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=4468FC33-9D8E-4DE1-A519-DDDE6F105F1E,Thune: We Must Stand Up For the Human Rights of Unborn Americans,2021-11-30,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today spoke on the Senate floor to defend the rights of the unborn. Thune noted that Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which the U.S. Supreme Court will hear this week, is the best opportunity to overturn Roe v. Wade, but regardless of the outcome, he will continue to be a tireless advocate for the unborn.

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, tomorrow the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in the Dobbs case, which deals with a Mississippi law that would prohibit most abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy.

“This case offers the best opportunity in many years to see Roe v. Wade overturned or modified – something that is long overdue.

“Roe v. Wade was a bad decision that should long ago have been reversed.

“Legal scholars from across the ideological spectrum have criticized the decision, noting, in the words of one expert, ‘As constitutional argument, Roe is barely coherent. The court pulled its fundamental right to choose more or less from the constitutional ether.’

“Or as another legal scholar put it, Roe is ‘a very bad decision … because it is bad constitutional law, or rather because it is not constitutional law and gives almost no sense of an obligation to try to be.’

“I should note, Mr. President, that both of the individuals I just quoted are actually supportive of abortion, but, like many others, both recognize that Roe is simply bad law.

“In the Roe decision, the Supreme Court reached far beyond the Constitution and the court’s interpretive role to impose a new abortion regime on the entire country.

“And it is past time for this unconstitutional decision to be overturned and for the court to return jurisdiction over abortion to the states.

“And, Mr. President, it’s important to note that overturning Roe would do just that – return jurisdiction over abortion to the states and to elected officials who can be held accountable for their decisions, and ultimately to the American people.

“Many assume – incorrectly – that overturning Roe would somehow automatically ban abortion nationwide.

“It wouldn’t.

“It would simply return jurisdiction to the people’s elected representatives.

“Abortion law would become the domain of states and Congress, instead of the domain of unelected, activist members of the judiciary.

“Mr. President, members of the radical pro-abortion lobby – which controls the abortion policies of the Democrat Party – are of course up in arms over the Dobbs case.

“They are terrified that the Supreme Court will overturn Roe – and I suspect that the root of that fear is the knowledge that they need an activist court for their radical abortion agenda.

“Why?

“Because the American people do not agree with the radical abortion lobby on abortion.

“For all its efforts to paint abortion on demand, at any time, up until the moment of birth, as the only possible position, the pro-abortion lobby has completely failed to convince the American people.

“Polls consistently show that a strong majority of the American people support at least some restrictions on abortion.

“Gallup has been polling on abortion for decades, and in all that time the percentage of Americans who believe abortion should be legal under any circumstance has always remained under 35 percent.

“In fact, for most of the past several decades that number has remained squarely under 30 percent.

“An Associated Press poll from this June found that 65 percent of Americans believe that abortion should generally be illegal in the second trimester – or from about 13 weeks of pregnancy – while a whopping 80 percent of Americans believe that abortion should generally be illegal in the third trimester.

“And it’s no surprise.

“Despite the abortion lobby’s attempts to dehumanize unborn children and portray them as nothing more than clumps of cells or unwanted growths, most Americans are well aware that an unborn child is a baby.

“A human being.

“An innocent human being.

“And because Americans generally gravitate toward justice and the defense of human rights and vulnerable human beings, they remain – despite the best efforts of the abortion lobby – fundamentally uncomfortable with unrestricted abortion.

“And so I think the root of the abortion lobby’s outrage is the knowledge that if Roe is overturned, their radical abortion agenda is unlikely to prevail nationwide because the American people simply do not agree with them on abortion.

“Mr. President, the pro-abortion lobby – and its allies in the Democrat Party – would like Americans to believe that Mississippi’s 15-week abortion ban is extreme, radical legislation.

“Well, nothing could be further from the truth.

“In fact, the United States of America is a radical outlier on abortion.

“We are one of only seven countries in the world that allow elective abortion past 20 weeks.

“One of just seven countries in the world.

“Among those other countries are China and North Korea.

“Not exactly the kind of company we want to be keeping when it comes to defending human rights.

“Forty-seven out of 50 European countries – 47 out of 50 – either require women to have a specific reason for seeking an abortion or limit elective abortion to 15 weeks or earlier.

“Thirty-two European countries – including France, Denmark, Switzerland, Norway, and many others – limit elective abortion to at or before 12 weeks’ gestation.

“Let’s just consider that for a minute, Mr. President.

“A substantial majority of European countries limit abortion to at or before 12 weeks.

“In other words, Mississippi’s 15-week abortion law is not on the radical fringe when it comes to abortion, it is squarely in the mainstream for western democracies – and is in fact more permissive than the abortion laws of a majority of European countries.

“And yet the abortion lobby would have us believe that Mississippi is pushing some kind of extreme abortion legislation.

“Mr. President, let’s talk about unborn babies at 15 weeks.

“Fifteen-week-old unborn children have fully developed hearts that have already beat more than 15 million times.

“They yawn, make facial expressions, and suck their thumbs.

“They respond to taste and touch.

“And, Mr. President, scientific evidence suggests that they can feel pain.

“Pro-abortion activists may not like to hear it, but scientific evidence shows that the neural connections necessary to transmit pain are fully in place by around 20 weeks, and that babies may actually begin to experience pain as early as 12 weeks.

“So when we’re talking about a 15-week-old unborn baby, we’re talking about a baby who may very well already be able to experience pain – and will certainly be able to experience it a few weeks later if she can’t now.

“And yet in this country, it is perfectly legal to kill unborn children who are able to feel pain – and kill them with an abortion procedure so brutal and barbaric it is difficult to even describe.

“And yet it needs to be mentioned, because we need to acknowledge the reality that we are killing unborn babies in this country capable of feeling pain using a widely employed abortion procedure that involves dismembering the unborn child.

“As I said, Mr. President, it’s incredibly hard – in fact, heartbreaking – to even talk about.

“The abortion lobby would like to draw a veil over what happens inside abortion clinics, but the truth is that abortions are brutal and inhumane – certainly to the baby, but in many respects to the mother as well.

“Mr. President, since the Supreme Court handed down the Roe v. Wade decision, there have been an estimated 62 million-plus abortions in the United States.

“That number is so big it’s pretty much unfathomable.

“To put it in some kind of perspective, 62 million is nearly three times the population of the entire state of Florida.

“That’s how many unique, unrepeatable human beings we’ve lost to abortion since Roe.

“Mr. President, we are better than this.

“And we have to do better than this.

“Our country was founded to safeguard human rights.

“We haven’t always lived up to that promise, but we’ve never stopped trying.

“And it’s time for us to continue that work by standing up for the most vulnerable human beings among us – the unborn children whose human rights are not protected, and whose lives can be taken away at any time.

“Mr. President, thanks to medical advancements, it’s possible for babies born at 22 weeks to survive outside their mothers.

“It’s also perfectly legal to kill unborn children at 22 weeks.

“Something is radically wrong with that picture.

“How can an unborn child of 22 weeks be regarded as a human being worthy of protection in one case, and in the other case be regarded as nothing but a clump of cells to be disposed of in an abortion clinic?

“The cognitive dissonance is mindboggling.

“Mr. President, the more we learn about unborn children, the more we see their humanity.

“It’s impossible to look at an unborn baby kicking her feet and sucking her thumb on an ultrasound and see her as anything but the human being she is.

“Science, and medical advancements, and plain old common sense all point inexorably to the humanity of the unborn child.

“And human beings, Mr. President, deserve to be protected.

“And a good place to start would be with laws like Mississippi’s.

“Laws that would bring us into the mainstream of abortion laws worldwide.

“As I said, Mr. President, the United States is one of just seven countries in the world – including China and North Korea – that allow elective abortion past 20 weeks of pregnancy.

“I’d like to think that we can do a better job of protecting unborn children’s human rights than China and North Korea.

“So, Mr. President, I hope that the Supreme Court will uphold Mississippi’s law and open the door to greater protection for unborn children.

“But win or lose, I – and many, many, many others – will continue to stand up for the human rights of unborn Americans.

“And I am confident that in the end, right and justice and life will prevail.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/weekly-column/guest-column-be-kind-and-shop-locally,Guest Column: Be Kind and Shop Locally,2021-11-29,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"This guest column is written by Tom Rounds. Tom, along with his wife Shelly, own four businesses in the Pierre community. He is also the brother of Senator Mike Rounds.

With Christmas just weeks away, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush of buying gifts. It’s easy to be excited about seeing family and friends. And it’s easy to forget to be kind to those who are working in the retail, manufacturing or service industries.

As a small business owner, I know firsthand the challenges that come during the holiday season. And this year, our biggest challenge is finding employees. You’ve undoubtedly noticed the help wanted signs in hundreds of businesses across the state. It’s alarming, but what’s even more alarming is when the sign says, “Closed today due to staff shortage.”

Owning a small business is hard. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 20 percent of businesses fail within the first year. By year five, that number jumped to 50 percent. But every year, thousands of South Dakotans embark on the American dream of owning their own business. And every year, these business owners become the new mentors and new donors for our communities.

We all know shopping locally keeps more money in our economy, supports local jobs and is good for our towns. But let’s talk about what else these local businesses do for our communities.

They are the people who serve as the first work mentors for our children. They take a chance on inexperienced teenagers and teach them about responsibility and work ethic. And they give your kids a paycheck so they can begin to learn fiscal responsibility.

Local business owners are the first ones tapped to donate for school functions, sporting events and any other fundraiser you can think of. And most of the time, these businesses give, and they give and they give some more because they know they are supporting their community and their customers.

And then when they aren’t being asked to donate, some business owners take it upon themselves to continue to find ways to help. They might donate 10 percent of their profits to a local family or organization. Or in the case of one Pierre eating establishment, they donated a portion of their profits to a competing business who had recently lost everything to a fire. If that’s not a sense of community, I don’t know what is.

The other day I saw a sign that said, “Be kind to our employees. We are short staffed and they are doing the best they can.” Let’s face it, the last two years have been tough for local businesses and we need your support now more than ever.

It’s easy to get caught up in the convenience of online shopping or traveling to a bigger town to get what you need. But before you hit send on that next order - especially with all of your holiday shopping coming up - think about your local businesses and the people they employ, the taxes they pay and the products they offer. And don’t forget to be kind.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=8C66CFA0-5A4B-46BD-A678-B05918FECAB7,"Thune, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect, Expand Rural Broadband Access",2021-11-23,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) recently introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen the funding mechanisms for the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Universal Service Fund (USF), which promotes universal access to broadband and other telecommunications services.

“It is crucial that rural communities across South Dakota have access to reliable broadband services,” said Thune. “For years I have fought for predictable and sufficient support for broadband providers to help enable the continued deployment of these services throughout our communities. I’m proud to support this legislation that builds on those efforts to ensure that the FCC’s Universal Service Fund remains sustainable in the future.”

The USF – which includes programs to support broadband access in rural communities, facilitate rural health care, and expand access to affordable broadband service for low-income families, schools, and libraries – is largely funded by fees imposed on landlines. As the use of landlines continues to decline, this places a disproportionate impact on seniors, who are significantly more likely to use a landline than younger adults.

The Reforming Broadband Connectivity Act directs the FCC to initiate a rule making proceeding to reform the contributions system, taking into account the fairness and the relative burden any changes in fees will have on consumers and businesses, as well as the impact the proposed changes to the contribution system will have on seniors.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/weekly-column/the-first-thanksgiving,The First Thanksgiving,2021-11-22,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Thanksgiving – it’s the time of year where you can turn to the paper and are almost guaranteed to find a few fluffy columns about counting blessings and being thankful. But this year, it would ring hollow coming from me. As many of you know, I lost Jean, my wife of 43 years, to cancer on November 2. She was the love of my life and, without her in it, my world will never be the same.

Often when we think about love, we think about all the firsts. The first date. The first kiss. The first time bringing her home to mom and dad. But what about the painful firsts that love throws at us? The first night shutting off the lights alone in bed. The first snowfall without her by my side. Even in death, love remains; yet is the source of grief.

This is my first holiday alone. And while family will be there, I’m still alone. No amount of people can replace Jean’s presence. For 43 years, we shared everything together. In marriage, we became one. She was my soulmate, my rock and her void is impossible to fill.

Hardly an hour goes by where I don’t think about Jean. She’s my first thought in the morning and the last before I go to bed. She was everything to me and is constantly on my mind.

Everyone grieves differently and it can hit you at any time. Feelings come when you least expect them and some moments are worse than others. Sometimes longing, sometimes anger, sometimes pain. We often don’t get to choose how we feel. But when I can, I choose to be thankful.

Thankful that God brought that Lake Preston farm girl into my life. Thankful for every minute we shared together. And that family was always first.

Thankful for the friends, family and even strangers who prayed for us and loved us through it all. Thankful for the doctors and nurses who worked so hard to cure her and to make her comfortable. The kindness we felt made a difference and will never be forgotten.

Thankful she is no longer in pain and is finally at peace. No more long trips to Mayo. No more poking and prodding. No more radiation or chemo. Just peace.

Thankful for everything she left with me. The memories. The kids. The grandkids. I’ll take care of them and they’ll take care of me. That’s what family does and we’ll get through this together. A part of Jean lives in each of us, and in that we can find comfort.

And thankful for our Faith, which gives us the hope that we will be with each other again someday. 65 is too young to leave this earth. While death may separate us now, love binds us together forever.

Like our ancestors who faced a new, unknown world on the first Thanksgiving, I find myself this Thanksgiving anticipating an entirely new world. But relying on courage and Faith, I know God will continue to provide and give me the strength to live out the purpose he has remaining for me. As Jean and I would remind one another, “When you have Faith, you have hope.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=21590A0D-9087-4217-A993-869649DD78DC,"Thune, Moran Lead Colleagues in Raising Concerns Over New Container Shipping Fees at Ports",2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today joined his colleagues in urging the Federal Maritime Commission to reevaluate the new fees imposed for ocean carriers at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach that will be imposed starting November 22. The members expressed concerns that these increased shipping costs will eventually be passed on to American consumers, who are already facing numerous challenges as a result of the ongoing supply chain crisis.

“These fees, just like tariffs, ultimately will be passed onto the American consumer in the form of higher prices for goods at a time when the prices are already at record highs,” the senators wrote. “Without question, ports across the United States are experiencing unprecedented congestion and record container volumes. We are sympathetic to the strain placed on all facets of the global supply chain, but it is misguided to levy an exorbitant fee under these unprecedented circumstances. Certainly, the delays and congestion at these ports is a multi-faceted problem, but these hyper-demurrage fees are not the solution. If left in place, they will have significant consequences for importers and American consumers.”

The letter is also signed by Sens. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Shelley Moore-Capito (R-W.Va.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), James Risch (R-Idaho), Ben Sasse (R-Neb.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.).

Full letter below:

The Honorable Daniel B. Maffei

Federal Maritime Commission

800 North Capitol Street, N.W.

Washington, DC 20573

Dear Chairman Maffei:

We write to express our serious concern with the new “Container Excess Dwell Fees” at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach that will be levied against ocean carriers starting on November 22. Although the ocean carriers will be receiving the bill, they have clearly stated their expectations that all fees will be passed through to the importers. These fees, just like tariffs, ultimately will be passed onto the American consumer in the form of higher prices for goods at a time when the prices are already at record highs. We call on the Federal Maritime Commission (Commission) to immediately review these fees against the statutory and regulatory requirements within the Commission’s jurisdiction. We also urge the Commission to review the ocean carriers’ plan for passing through the detention and demurrage fees to shippers.

Without question, ports across the United States are experiencing unprecedented congestion and record container volumes. We are sympathetic to the strain placed on all facets of the global supply chain, but it is misguided to levy an exorbitant fee under these unprecedented circumstances. Certainly, the delays and congestion at these ports is a multi-faceted problem, but these hyper-demurrage fees are not the solution. If left in place, they will have significant consequences for importers and American consumers.

The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach will begin charging ocean carriers daily dwell fees of $100 per container, increasing in $100 increments every day until the container leaves the terminal. For containers scheduled to move by truck, fees will be incurred by containers that sit for longer than nine days. For containers moving by rail, shipping lines will be charged if the container sits in port for longer than six days.

With this fee structure in place, the costs may increase astronomically. A container that has accrued fees for 30 days will be issued a hyper-demurrage fee of $46,500. This punitive fee structure appears contradictory to the spirit of the “reasonable” practices outlined in 46 CFR § 545.5. - Interpretation of Shipping Act of 1984 - Unjust and unreasonable practices with respect to demurrage and detention which the Commission published on May 18, 2020. Under this rule, to be reasonable, the fee must serve its “intended primary purposes as financial incentives to promote freight fluidity.” If the fee cannot serve this purpose, it would unfairly penalize the importer and function as an improper revenue stream.

In addition to being excessive, these fees fail to take into account that freight congestion is the result of complex interactions among numerous stakeholders. Labor shortages, empty container congestion, and lack of available intermodal equipment all add to the congestion. With the current logistical issues facing these two ports, it is often not feasible for importers to pick up containers in a timelier fashion. Punishing importers via fees levied against ocean carriers is an ineffective and particularly punitive incentive that not only fails to decongest ports, but ultimately trickles down and hurts the American consumer.

The Commission’s mission is to protect American shippers from the unfair practices of ocean carriers, freight consolidators, and port operators. Now, in the midst of these already challenging times, oversight is needed more than ever. As the nation grapples with the recovery from the coronavirus pandemic, it is essential that port operators adhere to the existing regulations. We urge the Commission to move expeditiously to review the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach for violations within the Commission’s jurisdiction. As is visible from the fee structure, time is a critical factor. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=4D4CAA00-5667-4FD9-AA8E-07A5EC0FECCD,"Thune: Democrats Encourage Illegal Immigration, Consider Offering Massive Taxpayer-Funded Cash Settlements",2021-11-18,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today called out Democrats for ignoring the catastrophic crisis at the southern border and encouraging illegal immigration. Thune highlighted Democrats’ attempt to include full amnesty for illegal immigrants in their reckless tax-and-spending spree.

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, the Biden border crisis continues to rage.

“Last month, U.S. Customs and Border Protection encountered 164,303 individuals attempting to illegally cross our southern border.

“That’s more than twice the number of encounters Customs and Border Protection had the previous October, and the highest October number in more than 20 years.

“In all, more than 1.7 million migrants were apprehended attempting to cross our southern border in fiscal year 2021 – the highest number ever.

“We are in the midst of a very serious crisis, Mr. President.

“And the response from Democrats and the administration?

“Well, mostly crickets.

“Democrats seem to hope that ignoring the border situation will make it go away – or at least ensure that no one pays attention.

“I’m pretty sure the president and his administration spent more time earlier this year fighting against the use of the word crisis to describe the situation at the border than they did actually thinking about how they might deal with the influx.

“And apparently the administration is still trying to avoid the crisis label, judging by a recent hearing where the president’s nominee to head Customs and Border Protection seemed to carefully avoid referring to the situation at the border as a crisis.

“Mr. President, if the highest number of border apprehensions ever recorded isn’t a crisis, I’m not sure what is.

“The situation at our southern border is out of control.

“It’s a security crisis.

“It’s a manpower and enforcement crisis.

“And it’s a humanitarian crisis.

“Although, again, you’d never guess it from Democrats’ behavior.

“Despite the fact that this crisis has been raging for the best part of a year, Democrats and the administration have taken essentially no meaningful action to address the situation.

“And that’s not the worst of it.

“Democrats’ policies have actually made the situation worse.

“The president has significantly limited the ability of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection to enforce immigration laws.

“And arrests in the interior of the country dropped steeply under his administration.

“The Washington Post recently reported, and I quote, ‘Immigration arrests in the interior of the United States fell in fiscal 2021 to the lowest level in more than a decade.’

“And the practical effect of the president’s lax enforcement policies has been to encourage new waves of illegal immigration.

“It’s hardly surprising.

“If you think that your chances of staying in the United States are high if you manage to successfully enter the country, you’re much more likely to decide to undertake the journey.

“And the administration’s actions – or lack thereof – have been compounded by the actions of Democrats in Congress, who have been doing their best to guarantee widespread amnesty.

“Democrats have repeatedly attempted to include full amnesty for illegal immigrants in their tax-and-spending spree.

“And while they’ve been partially foiled by the rulings of the Senate parliamentarian, the latest version of their bill still contains provisions to grant de facto amnesty to many illegal immigrants.

“Their spending spree also deliberately lacks restrictions on federal funding going to individuals in the country illegally – which means that illegal immigrants could end up claiming the $3,000 per year child allowance, housing vouchers, and more.

“One analysis suggests that illegal immigrants could collect $10.5 billion in child allowance payments next year.

“And I haven’t even mentioned reports that the Biden administration has apparently been contemplating settling lawsuits brought by individuals who came here illegally with payments of up to $450,000 – per person.

“$450,000.

“That’s more than four times as much as the government gives to the families of soldiers killed in action, and nine times as much as the government gives to an individual wrongly imprisoned for one year.

“The administration has suggested that payments will not actually be that high, but even a settlement half that size would dwarf the payments we give to the families of fallen soldiers.

“Mr. President, immigrants have helped make this country what it is today, and I am a strong supporter of legal immigration, including temporary worker visas like H-2B visas, which help South Dakota employers, and many others, address hiring challenges.

“But, again, immigration has to be legal.

“Encouraging illegal immigration, as Democrats are doing, presents a serious security risk, as it makes it easier for everyone from terrorists to drug traffickers to enter the country unidentified – to say nothing of drugs like fentanyl and other illegal items.

“Encouraging illegal immigration through lax immigration enforcement and amnesty also undermines respect for the rule of law.

“The area of immigration should not be an exception to the principle that the law has to be respected.

“Yet that’s basically what Democrats’ policies are saying – that the law doesn’t matter when it comes to immigration.

“Finally, Mr. President, we need to get away from any idea that there’s anything compassionate about policies that encourage individuals to come here illegally.

“Attempting to enter the country illegally is fraught with danger – from natural perils like weather, disease, and exposure, to exploitation by smugglers and traffickers.

“And amnesty and lax enforcement policies encourage thousands more individuals and families to expose themselves to the dangers of an illegal border crossing.

“Mr. President, President Biden and Democrats could help stem this crisis right now by making it clear that immigration law will be enforced and that the only acceptable way to enter the United States is to come here legally.

“Unfortunately, it seems much more likely that the president will continue to ignore this crisis and deemphasize immigration enforcement while Democrats in Congress continue to push for amnesty.

“It’s a serious failure of responsibility on the president’s part – and one that will continue to have serious, and sometimes deadly, consequences.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=99D8EFDD-9254-47DE-98F6-A581182F7ACA,Delegation Requests Additional Funding to Address Safety Hazards for SWO Law Enforcement,2021-11-18,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) today urged U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Debra Haaland to increase funding for the Sisseston Wahpeton Oyate (SWO) Community and Justice Rehabilitation Center. The delegation stressed the need for a new police department headquarters within the center after a recent report from the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) revealed that mold has infiltrated the existing police station.

“[A] recent BIA report found that the current SWO Police Department headquarters has been taken over by mold,” the delegation wrote. “The existence of this mold poses a health hazard for police officers, station staff, and Tribal members visiting the station. Building a new station in conjunction with the detention facility would establish greater public safety in the community, as well as eliminate the current health risk within the existing station. Additional funds from DOI to SWO are needed to make this a reality.”

Full letter below:

The Honorable Debra Haaland

Secretary U.S. Department of the Interior

1849 C Street, NW

Washington, D.C. 20240

Dear Secretary Haaland,

We write in support of additional funding for Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate (SWO) Community Justice and Rehabilitation Center. Specifically, there is an urgent need for a new police department headquarters housed within this new center, following a Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) report that mold has infiltrated the existing police station.

For several years, SWO has sought to build a Community Justice and Rehabilitation Center. The need became more urgent after the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), the BIA, and the Office of Justice Services (OJS) condemned and closed their 28-bed adult jail in December 2016. After this closure, Congress directed the BIA and OJS to assist the Tribe in reconstructing its adult detention facility. DOI has since awarded $11,175,000 to SWO for construction of a 25- bed adult detention facility. We are told that construction should begin in spring 2022 and we ask that you honor Congress’s FY 2021 request for expedited action on the SWO adult detention facility project.

Despite this positive development, SWO is faced with further public safety issues. As noted earlier, a recent BIA report found that the current SWO Police Department headquarters has been taken over by mold. The existence of this mold poses a health hazard for police officers, station staff, and Tribal members visiting the station. To combat this, we ask that the Department of the Interior provide appropriate funding for: (1) temporary police headquarters to remove SWO officers from immediate risk, and (2) a new police station to allow Tribal law enforcement officials to better serve their community and function in coordination with the SWO Community Justice and Rehabilitation Center. Building a new station in conjunction with the detention facility would establish greater public safety in the community, as well as eliminate the current health risk within the existing station. Additional funds from DOI to SWO are needed to make this a reality.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent public health and safety matter. We look forward to progress to remedy the present situation.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-infrastructure-bill-reaches-100-cosponsors,Johnson Infrastructure Bill Reaches 100 Cosponsors,2021-11-17,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) announced that the State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial Fiscal Recovery, Infrastructure, and Disaster Relief Flexibility Act reached over 100 cosponsors in the House this week. This legislation will make various infrastructure investments eligible for payment with unspent COVID-19 relief funds.

The bill recently passed the U.S. Senate unanimously. Johnson introduced the House companion in October.

""This bill has real momentum to pass the House, and I'm proud we hit the 100 mark this week,"" said Johnson. ""Support continues to grow for this commonsense proposal and I'm confident we can get states and localities the flexibility they need to best utilize COVID-19 relief dollars.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=F0F8D169-2695-4AF8-A734-0B011712DC54,Thune: Democrats’ Inflation Will Make Thanksgiving the Most Expensive in History,2021-11-17,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today warned that Thanksgiving will be the most expensive in history as inflation causes Americans to spend more on everyday goods. Thune stressed that inflation will be made worse if Democrats are able to pass their reckless tax-and-spending spree.

Thune’s remarks below:

“This is going to be the most expensive Thanksgiving for American families in history.

“The turkey itself is going to be 18% higher than it was last year.

“Other costs – eggs, poultry, fish, meats, year over year have increased 11.9%. That's the October-to-October increase in inflation there.

“For people who are going to be traveling over the Thanksgiving holiday, gas prices are at a seven-year high.

“And if you're heating your home or cooking your food, utilities in South Dakota tell us that the home heating costs this year are going to be 50 to 100% higher than they were last year.

“I've been warning about this since last February, when the Democrats were talking about passing their first massive tax-and-spend bill.

“And since that time, we have seen inflation go up – highest rate in 31 years – biggest inflationary increase literally in more than a generation.

“And what they're talking about doing now with this next massive and reckless tax-and-spending spree is going to aggravate and accelerate this inflation issue even more.

“It's not going away, and the only thing that they can do to make it worse is to flood the zone with more spending, more taxes, and more debt, and you'll see inflation continue to go up.

“The best thing we can do to stop that from happening is to stop this reckless tax-and-spending spree dead in its tracks.

“And I hope that we will have some Democrats who come to the conclusion that that's the case and be willing to work with us to make that happen.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=C6A96E07-8F53-4DF7-BE0D-2A838EC41FCE,"Thune: Democrats Continue to Ignore Ongoing Crises, Prioritize Socialist Spending Spree",2021-11-16,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today discussed how Democrats have prioritized their reckless tax-and-spending spree over addressing the numerous crises they have created, which are impacting families in South Dakota and across the country. Thune noted that Democrats’ latest proposal would significantly increase the size of the federal government and expand its reach into Americans’ lives.

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, we’re coming up on a year of Democrat governance here in Washington.

“And what do Democrats have to show for it?

“Nothing good.

“On the international front, the president’s most significant act was his disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan, which lowered our standing with our allies and continues to jeopardize our national security.

“On the domestic front, Democrats have largely ignored a massive crisis along our southern border that continues to rage.

“And then, Mr. President, there’s inflation.

“You might call it Democrats’ signature domestic ‘achievement.’

“So how did they get us here?

“Well, despite their lack of a mandate and their extremely narrow majorities in Congress, Democrats came into office last January determined to expand government and implement a far-left, socialist agenda.

“And in their minds the coronavirus crisis provided the perfect opportunity to advance their plans.

“And so despite the fact that Congress had just passed a nearly $1 trillion, bipartisan coronavirus response bill in December – the fifth bipartisan bill Congress had passed in just 10 months – Democrats declared that we immediately needed another piece of – ostensibly – coronavirus relief legislation.

“And not just another piece of legislation – a massive piece of legislation.

“Despite the fact that the December bill had met essentially all the pressing coronavirus needs the country was facing, Democrats decided that we “needed” to spend another $1.9 trillion.

“Democrats were warned that the size of their so-called American Rescue Plan – which was substantially in excess of anything the economy required – ran the risk of spurring inflation.

“Obama economic adviser Larry Summers warned in the Washington Post, and I quote, ‘there is a chance that macroeconomic stimulus on a scale closer to World War II levels than normal recession levels will set off inflationary pressures of a kind we have not seen in a generation, with consequences for the value of the dollar and financial stability.’

“Democrats passed their bill anyway.

“They flooded the economy with a lot of unnecessary government money.

“And the results have been predictable.

“Inflation.

“Significant inflation.

“Inflation, to borrow a phrase from Larry Summers, ‘of a kind we have not seen in a generation.’

“Last week, we found out that inflation rose 6.2 percent year-over-year in October, the largest increase in more than 30 years.

“30 years, Mr. President.

“Families are facing higher prices at the grocery store.

“And when I say higher, I mean a lot higher.

“The price of meat, poultry, fish, and eggs was up 11.9 percent year-over-year in October.

“11.9 percent.

“Families are also facing higher prices at the gas pump.

“For housing.

“For electricity.

“For furniture and vehicles and pets and pet products.

“And the list goes on.

“While wages are rising, they’re being outstripped by inflation, which means that many families are dealing with a de facto pay cut.

“And a big reason families are struggling with the higher cost of pretty much everything is Democrats’ decision to flood the economy with unnecessary government money by passing the so-called American Rescue Plan.

“And you don’t have to take my word for it.

“Here’s what former Obama economic adviser Jason Furman had to say recently when discussing our current inflation problem: ‘The original sin was an oversized American Rescue Plan. It contributed to both higher output but also higher prices.’

“Mr. President, you might think that the inflation that has resulted from the American Rescue Plan would be giving Democrats pause right now.

“You might think that they’d be putting a hold on any more big spending until inflation calms down somewhat from its 30-plus-year high.

“But you’d be wrong.

“Democrats are actually planning to double down on the strategy that helped cause so much inflation in the first place and pass ANOTHER giant spending bill.

“That’s right.

“Democrats are trying to finalize a new, $1.75 trillion tax-and-spending spree – the so-called ‘Build Back Better’ plan – on top of their $1.9 trillion spending spree from earlier this year.

“I say $1.75 trillion – but Democrats have only arrived at that number through a combination of shell games and budget gimmicks.

“An honest accounting of the cost of this proposal over 10 years would reveal a much higher price tag.

“And if Democrats succeed in passing this latest partisan spending spree, Americans should brace themselves … because this new flood of government money will undoubtedly make an already serious inflation situation worse.

“Mr. President, it’s no exaggeration to say that Democrats’ main focus this year has been growing the size of the federal government and expanding its reach into Americans’ lives.

“No sooner had they passed their massive $1.9 trillion spending bill in March than Democrats moved on to their next massive spending proposals, which have coalesced into the so-called Build Back Better bill the House is planning to take up this week.

“Other government business has been forced to take a back seat.

“Democrats have ignored the massive crisis at our southern border.

“They’ve ignored our inflation crisis.

“And they’ve pushed consideration of essential legislation in favor of working on their tax-and-spending plan.

“This week, the Senate will finally – finally – consider the fiscal year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act – a month and a half after the 2022 fiscal year started.

“Shipbuilding projects, military infrastructure projects, development of new combat systems, a pay increase for our troops … they’ve all had to wait while Democrats negotiated over their socialist spending spree.

“And about that socialist spending spree.

“Despite the fact that Democrats have pushed aside most other matters in favor of focusing on their spending plan, they still haven’t managed to come up with a bill that can pass the House and Senate.

“And the tax proposals they plan to use to – partially – pay for the bill seem to change on a daily basis.

“A corporate tax hike … no, a corporate minimum tax.

“A new death tax … no, a new tax on wealth.

“Funding for their bill seems to be a matter of throwing spaghetti at the wall to see what sticks.

“And of course all of Democrats’ current funding proposals put together will not be able to pay for their legislation – especially when you remove the budget gimmicks that are disguising the true cost of their plans.

“Mr. President, as their narrow majorities made clear, the 2020 election did not give Democrats a mandate for socialism.

“And if that wasn’t clear to Democrats in 2020, it should certainly be clear to them now, after the election for Virginia governor earlier this month, which saw Republicans win statewide for the first time since 2009.

“Voters in Virginia sent a clear message to Democrats that they weren’t looking for far-left government – or a far-left social agenda that would seek to circumvent parents’ role in their children’s lives and education.

“But just as inflation concerns have not stopped Democrats, it’s become clear that their rebuke in Virginia won’t stop them either.

“In fact, some Democrats seem to think that their response should be to run faster and further to the left.

“And so the big agenda item for Democrats for the rest of the year continues to be passing their partisan ‘Build Back Better’ tax-and-spending spree – which means Americans will be able to look forward to further inflation and a weaker economy, not to mention increased government control of their decision-making.

“It’s a poor legacy for Democrats’ first year in office.

“But it seems to be the legacy Democrats are determined to secure.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/weekly-column/guest-column-adoption-story-handwritten-by-god,Guest Column: Adoption Story Handwritten by God,2021-11-15,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"This guest column is written by Adam and Hayley Kaemingk. Adam serves as the West River Director for Senator Mike Rounds and manages his Rapid City office.

November is National Adoption month. Our adoption story was handwritten by God and started before we even knew it. As we look back at the timeline of our life together, we clearly see how God was preparing us for one of the most important times of our lives.

Married in 2007, we dreamed of building a family with biological and adopted children. We welcomed our first born in 2009. Eliot’s birth was God’s first chapter in our adoption story. At the time, we didn’t understand some of what He was doing, but we soon would.

When Eliot was 6 months old, we noticed her eyes were not tracking normally. She was diagnosed with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia. This diagnosis meant that she was partially blind and her MRI scan showed a small part of her brain never formed. We committed ourselves to be the best advocates for Eliot and her special needs.

The next few years brought the birth of two more children, Anders and Reese. Between working, running kiddos and the weekly house projects, we put the idea of adoption on the back burner. But we were quickly reminded that Kaemingk timing is not the same as God’s timing.

We learned that there was a need for families to take part in the China Special Needs Program. The Lord had led us exactly where He wanted us to be and if our son was in China, we needed to go to him and bring him home. Little did we know when we were praying about that decision - over 6,000 miles away, a little boy was born and placed in an orphanage.

In early 2016, we got “the call.” There was a file for us to consider of a 12 month old boy who was partially blind. We couldn’t believe the similarities between this child and our Eliot. This is the part of our story where God made it clear that the trials we experienced with Eliot’s disorder were there to prepare us to be exactly what our son, Theo, needed us to be.

We took a trip across the ocean to China and Theo Li Minglong joined our family. As he slept that night in our hotel room, I remember thinking about his birth mom. I prayed that God would give her a peace in her heart that he was taken care of and loved.

Our time in Theo’s homeland will always be special to us. Back then, he was the boy that didn’t know the love of a family. He was the boy who only stared at his fingers. He couldn’t stand, walk or feed himself.

Today, Theo is a happy and healthy first grader who loves reading, telling jokes, singing songs and riding his bike. He recently learned to knee board and tube, and enjoys spending time with his siblings and cousins. The prosthetic eye he received three years ago has helped tremendously with his confidence.

God is an exquisite author indeed and we love the story He wrote for us. We just had to be obedient, patient and let go.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-statement-infrastructure,Johnson Statement on Infrastructure,2021-11-05,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) issued a statement following the U.S. House passage of the $1.2 trillion infrastructure package:

""I appreciate that the infrastructure package is largely focused on roads, bridges, and hard infrastructure, but $1.2 trillion isn't a number I can support. Today's bill relies on one-time funding sources that will create a massive fiscal cliff in a few years. While the Democrats $1.75 trillion spending package looms over our country, I simply can't support more unsustainable spending.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/remembering-jean-rounds,Remembering Jean Rounds,2021-11-05,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Jean Rounds, 65, died peacefully on Tuesday, November 2, at her home in Ft. Pierre, surrounded by those she loved. A visitation will be held on Friday, November 5th from 5:00-7:00pm at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Pierre with a 6:00pm Prayer Service. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00am on Saturday, November 6th at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Pierre with private family burial to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Pierre. The family will be hosting a luncheon at Drifters Bar & Grille following the funeral mass.

Jean's Funeral can be viewed by visiting: rounds.senate.gov/Jean

Jean Renae Vedvei was born on October 4, 1956, in Lake Preston, South Dakota, to Alec and Helen Vedvei. The oldest of four siblings, she spent most of her childhood on a farm north of Lake Preston. She initially attended country school near the farm before later going to school in town. She excelled at academics and sports, and was an accomplished musician. Her father especially enjoyed hearing her play the accordion.

After graduating from Lake Preston High School in 1974, she attended South Dakota State University in Brookings. She soon graduated with a degree in office management and went to work at the university. It was at SDSU where she met her future husband, Mike. They were married at the North Preston Church near her hometown on April 22, 1978, and subsequently made their home in Pierre.

The couple had four children: Christopher, Brian, Carrie and John. All were active in sports and extracurricular activities, and Jean loved watching and supporting them in every way possible. She was absolutely committed to their success and documented every minute of it in her amazing scrapbooks.

Jean was an incredible typist—even winning a vacation with her typewriting speed. She used her talents at several positions in state government, including working at the State Planning Bureau and as the office manager for the Secretary of the Department of Transportation.

When Mike decided to run for Governor in 2001, she supported him with two conditions: that he never run a negative ad and never make her give a speech. He followed through on the first condition, and she took on her new role as South Dakota’s First Lady in 2003. Over the next eight years, Jean was most proud of her advocacy for childhood literacy and women’s heart health as well as her help in designing the new Governor’s Residence.

More recently, she was a member of the Catholic Daughters, P.E.O., and the U.S. Senate Spouses’ Club. She also served on the Capitol Complex Restoration and Beautification Committee. She enjoyed creative hobbies—especially cross-stitching, quilting, and scrapbooking—with many of her best friends. One of her favorite activities was camping at Okobojo, and she was still waterskiing at the age of 60.

As she battled cancer for the last several years, she would often say, “if you have Faith, you have hope.” Her faith and family were her focus. She opened her home every year on Christmas Eve to host more than a hundred close relatives. All four of her children lived close by, and her 10 grandchildren all had the opportunity to get to know their grandma.

Jean is survived by her husband Mike; her parents Alec and Helen Vedvei; her mother-in-law Rosemary Rounds; her children Chris (Lindsay) Rounds, Brian (Kerry) Rounds, Carrie (Justin) Larson, and John (Ashlee) Rounds; her grandchildren Ian, Elaina, Micah, Isabel, Hendry, Andrina, Beckett, Cohen, Natalie, and Maverick; her brothers Al (Deb) Vedvei, Charlie Vedvei, and John (Jerrie) Vedvei; her sisters-in-law Michele (Randy) Brich and Michelle (Rob) Julian; her brothers-in-law Dennis Rounds, Douglas (Jackie) Rounds, Timothy (Kristin) Rounds, Daniel (Wendey) Rounds, Thomas (Shelly) Rounds, Patrick (Michelle) Rounds, Steven (DeeAnn) Rounds, Scott (Kara) Rounds, Jamison (Cathy) Rounds, Marc (Pam) Scarborough, and Ryan (Patricia) Scarborough; her uncle Vernon Vedvei; her aunts Beatrice Krahn and Mary Ann (Ed) Hall; and many nieces and nephews. She also greatly appreciated the help and support of close friend, Dawna Leitzke, who often travelled with her to Mayo Clinic and supported her and the family in her last few days.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents Sam and Andrina Vedvei and Harol “Joe” and Alma McLain; her father- and mother-in-law Don and Joyce Rounds; and her aunts Beverly Gullickson, Signe Anderson, and Joanne Vedvei.

Condolences or memorials may be sent to P.O. Box 309, Pierre, SD, 57501. Memorials will be designated to the St. Joseph School Foundation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=A7AAD656-7A00-4112-99A0-2176115EAB7E,"Thune Opposes Biden Vaccine Mandate, Moves to Nullify It",2021-11-05,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today released the following statement in response to OSHA’s new rule, which was formally released today, requiring all private companies with 100 employees or more to enforce mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations for their employees. The Biden vaccine mandate would affect 80 million Americans and impose a $14,000 fine on businesses for every employee who doesn’t comply. Thune will join dozens of his Senate Republican colleagues in introducing a resolution that, if approved, would completely nullify the rule.

“Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is a personal choice,” said Thune. “I chose to get vaccinated, and I encourage others to as well, but a federal vaccine mandate is wrong, and it will significantly hurt businesses in South Dakota and damage an already struggling workforce. Washington bureaucrats have no business slapping heavy-handed, government-knows-best mandates on private companies or infringing on individuals’ freedoms and privacy. I will do everything I can to stop it.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=D812DAEA-6D66-430C-B239-9E06DC89A50A,Thune Leads Republican Colleagues in Urging USDA to Reverse Decision to Include So-Called “Net Neutrality” Commitments in ReConnect Program,2021-11-05,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, today sent a letter with several of his Republican colleagues to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack urging the agency to avoid imposing any unnecessary “net neutrality” restrictions on broadband providers, which would threaten future investments in broadband infrastructure.

“It is deeply troubling that USDA is suggesting it has the authority much less the qualified staff and expertise to make determinations about ‘lawful Internet traffic,’” the senators wrote. “If USDA decides to make attempts at regulating the Internet absent authority from Congress, it would lead to tremendous legal and marketplace uncertainty. Rather than attempting to impose monopoly-era regulations on broadband providers and politicizing the ReConnect program, we strongly urge you to reverse your decision to provide additional scoring points based on USDA’s determination of what constitutes ‘net neutrality.’”

The letter was also signed by U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), ranking member of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Dan Sullivan (R-Ala.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.).

Full letter below:

The Honorable Tom Vilsack Secretary

U.S. Department of Agriculture

1400 Independence Avenue, Southwest

Washington, D.C. 20250

Dear Secretary Vilsack,

We write today regarding our concerns with the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Rural eConnecvity Pilot Program’s (ReConnect) scoring criteria, which includes so-called “net neutrality” commitments.

The buildout of broadband infrastructure, including to some of the most remote and rural areas of this country, has transformed our nation’s economy and provided new opportunities for many Americans. The investment in broadband infrastructure by both small and large providers remains at an all-time high due to the light-touch regulatory approach taken by the federal government.

As you know, “net neutrality” restrictions have been subject to much debate in Congress and at the Federal Communications Commission, the agency that oversees our nation’s telecommunications policy. Any effort to impose unnecessary “net neutrality” restrictions would be dangerous to our nation’s dynamic broadband economy and threaten future investments in broadband infrastructure.

Further, it is deeply troubling that USDA is suggesting it has the authority much less the qualified staff and expertise to make determinations about “lawful Internet traffic.” If USDA decides to make attempts at regulating the Internet absent authority from Congress, it would lead to tremendous legal and marketplace uncertainty.

Rather than attempting to impose monopoly-era regulations on broadband providers and politicizing the ReConnect program, we strongly urge you to reverse your decision to provide additional scoring points based on USDA’s determination of what constitutes “net neutrality.”

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-dot-asleep-wheel,Johnson: DOT is Asleep at the Wheel,2021-11-04,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and Josh Harder (D-CA) along with 85 of their colleagues sent a bipartisan letter to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Buttigieg urging quick reimplementation of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) Under-21 Commercial Driver Pilot Program. While the trucking industry is short nearly 80,000 drivers, this Trump-era pilot program has been stalled by the Biden DOT for nearly a year amid ongoing supply chain delays.

Currently, 49 states and the District of Columbia allow 18 to 20-year-old commercial driver license (CDL) holders to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in intrastate commerce but these same drivers, who may have been driving safely for three years, are unable to drive across state lines.

""DOT is asleep at the wheel,"" said Johnson. ""America is dealing with a supply chain crisis and the Biden Administration isn't taking tangible steps to fix the problem. This pilot program could add more than 3,000 truck drivers to an industry that desperately needs workers.""

""Government needs to get out of the way and let our businesses and workers do what they do best,"" said Harder. ""I'm calling on the Biden Administration to cut the ridiculous red tape so our truck drivers can get to work and our economy can get moving again.""

During the 116th Congress, the DRIVE-Safe Act garnered over 140 cosponsors. This bill underscores congressional will to implement an Under-21 Commercial Driver Pilot Program and the Trump Administration took action to make it a reality.

Additionally, Johnson spoke on the state of the supply chain and trucking with industry leaders at an Agriculture Committee hearing yesterday (2:15:00 mark).

Read the full letter here or below:

November 4, 2021

The Honorable Pete Buttigieg

Secretary

U.S. Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE

Washington, D.C. 20590

Dear Secretary Buttigieg,

Amid the growing supply chain crisis, drivers in the trucking industry have stepped up to ensure the timely delivery of goods. Yet even with their efforts, there simply aren't enough truckers on the road to meet the demand.[1] Given this, we urge the Department of Transportation (DOT) to proceed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) Under-21 Commercial Driver Pilot Program.

Currently, only commercial driver's license (CDL) holders over the age of 21 can operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce. However, 49 states and the District of Columbia already allow 18 to 20-year-old CDL holders to operate CMVs in intrastate commerce. Accordingly, Congress supported, and the Trump Administration began, the process to implement the FMCSA's Under-21 Commercial Driver Pilot Program to allow drivers aged 18, 19, and 20 to operate CMVs in interstate commerce. This new pilot program would create a road map to drastically increase the number of truck drivers and alleviate the current crisis. Yet, the DOT has not taken action to move this program forward.[2]

As our supply chain issues continue to grow, we should be doing everything we can to fix the problem. Therefore, we urge implementation of FMCSA's Under-21 Commercial Driver Pilot Program. It's critical that we pursue all avenues to alleviate the supply chain crisis and get goods moving again.

Thank you for your attention to this letter. We look forward to your prompt response.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=87636AE2-0CEF-4762-9472-259BFA57542C,"Thune: Democrats’ Radical Agenda Threatens Families, Faith, and Life",2021-11-04,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today highlighted how Democrats’ out-of-touch child care provisions in their reckless tax-and-spending spree would reduce the number of child care options for parents and harm faith-based providers across the country. Thune also noted how the Democrats’ bill would allow taxpayer funding for abortions against the wishes of a majority of the American people.

On Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending spree (excerpts):

“The ever-evolving reckless tax-and-spending spree bill proposed by the Democrats – it continues to change because they can't seem to figure out how to put together something that might pass in the House and the Senate.”

…

“This bill is the largest spending increase we've seen in history, largest tax increase in history, and we're finding out now it’s also going to add significantly to the federal debt because there's a recent study by Penn Wharton which suggests that the overall cost of the bill, when fully implemented, would be $3.9 trillion and that the revenues that are proposed to be raised to pay for it only generate about $1.5 trillion.”

…

“So just think about that, Mr. President, from the side that always says that our side is looking out for rich people, trying to cut taxes for the rich, they are proposing, and have included, have included now in the House version of the reckless tax-and-spending spree bill, a provision that would provide tax cuts to rich people.

“In fact, 80 percent of that tax cut, 80 percent, would go to people who are making more than $200,000 a year.”

…

“Some really horrible ideas have come out in the last few weeks, some of which have gone away simply because there aren’t any Democrats who will vote for them. But this is one, obviously, that’s going to benefit rich people across this country on a level unlike anything else in the bill, as is suggested by the overall cost of the provision and the way that it distributes among income categories.”

On Democrats’ out-of-touch child care provisions (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, I think a lot of times when people think about the government paying for health care or child care or college or the like, they tend to just assume that they’ll be able to continue on with – or get – their preferred health care or child care, and that the only difference will be the fact that the government is now picking up the tab.

“If you listen to Democrats talk about it, that’s certainly what you might think.

“But the reality, Mr. President, is a lot different.

“Because with government money comes government control.

“Government money rarely comes without strings attached.

“And nowhere is that more obvious than with the child care provisions of the so-called ‘Build Back Better’ tax-and-spending spree Democrats are contemplating.

“To hear Democrats talk about it, you might think that the child care provisions amounted to nothing more than government cutting you a check to help with your excess daycare costs.

“The reality is a lot different.

“Mr. President, a 2020 Bipartisan Policy Center survey found that 53 percent of working families who used center-based child care used a faith-based child care center.

“53 percent.

“Parents select faith-based child care for a variety of reasons.

“Some choose it because they share the faith of the provider.

“But many choose it for other reasons, as the Bipartisan Policy Center study made clear.

“Some opt for a faith-based center because they like the quality of the facilities, or the quality of the instruction.

“Others because they feel the faith-based facility will provide a safe setting, or because even though they don’t share the belief system of the providers, they like the values that belief system represents.

“Well, for many of those families, their days of choosing faith-based child care may be numbered, because Democrats’ new child care provision is deliberately set up to put faith-based child care providers at a disadvantage.

“For starters, the language of the legislation would likely exclude many faith-based child care providers from participating in the program.

“That means that even if you as a parent prefer to choose your local faith-based child care center, you may not be able to.

“On top of that, Mr. President, the bill provides funding to assist with renovation or remodeling at daycare facilities – but it specifically prevents these funds from going to child care centers that share space with facilities for worship or religious instruction.

“That means that the child care program at your local Catholic church or your local Lutheran church or your local mosque will most likely not be allowed to take advantage of government assistance for renovations – although the secular provider down the street will.

“And, Mr. President, these policies are likely to have profound consequences.

“Obviously, many parents are likely to find themselves prevented from choosing their preferred faith-based child care provider.

“But beyond that, this legislation could start crowding faith-based child care providers out of the child care market entirely.

“Child care providers unable to participate in the government child care program may find themselves struggling to stay in business – or being forced to raise their fees to the point that only the most well-off families can afford faith-based care.

“The result?

“A shrinking number of faith-based providers.

“Which, I’m afraid, is probably some Democrats’ goal.

“It’s hard to imagine why else they would restrict parents’ ability to choose a faith-based provider for their children, or exclude religious child care providers from receiving government renovation assistance.

“Mr. President, Democrats’ legislation is representative of a growing tendency in the Democrat Party to treat religious people as second-class citizens – something that is completely out-of-step with the robust idea of religious freedom we have traditionally had in this country.

“The First Amendment was not intended to keep religion out of the public square, as many Democrats seem to think.

“Nor was it intended to privilege secular belief systems over religious ones.

“No, its purpose was to prevent the government from establishing a national religion or infringing on the rights of religious individuals to live out their faith.

“Today, however, it’s become apparent that many Democrats think at least some forms of government discrimination against religious people are perfectly acceptable.

“And there is no question that their child care program would place faith-based child care providers at a disadvantage.

“But, Mr. President, steering parents away from faith-based child care is not the only choice Democrats are going to be making for parents under this new child care benefit.

“Democrats’ child care program will not only make it more difficult for parents to choose faith-based care, it will make it more difficult for parents to choose any private child care provider.

“Under Democrats’ legislation, only public – in other words, government-run – child care providers will be guaranteed sufficient reimbursement to cover their operating costs.

“This is a deliberate choice that will make it much more difficult for private providers to stay in business, serving Democrats’ goal of pushing children into government-run child care programs.

“And that still isn’t the end of the child care decisions Democrats will be making.

“Democrats’ legislation also gives the federal government full control over approving child care curricula and performance standards.

“Providers will be measured not by how well-satisfied parents are with the child care they’re providing, but by whatever Washington bureaucrats determine to be appropriate measures of performance.

“I’m not sure why Washington bureaucrats are better suited than parents to identify quality child care providers.

“But, as the Democrat candidate for governor of Virginia recently made clear, Democrats do not seem to think that parents are best-suited to make decisions for their children.

“Mr. President, I could go on.

“I could talk about the confusing government bureaucracy parents will have to navigate under Democrats’ new child care program.

“Or I could talk about the fact that this new child care benefit could drive up child care costs for middle-class families over the next three years by a staggering $13,000 a year, according to one estimate.

“Yes, $13,000.

“But today, Mr. President, what I really want to emphasize is something Democrats conveniently omit from discussions of their new government programs:

“And that is, as I said, that with government money comes government control.

“Democrats are setting the stage for a government takeover of child care – where you can choose your provider only as long as Democrats agree with your choice.

“Mr. President, before I close, I want to mention one other aspect of Democrats’ bill, and that is the bill’s commitment to taxpayer funding of abortion.

“Mr. President, while the Democrat Party has long supported an abortion agenda, there has at least been bipartisan agreement when it comes to appropriations bills that we’re not going to use taxpayer dollars to fund abortions.

“For decades, the Hyde Amendment and other riders have helped prevent taxpayer dollars from paying for abortions.

“No longer, if Democrats have their way.

“In Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree, taxpayer funding of abortion is the order of the day.

“Restrictions on the use of taxpayer dollars for abortion funding are omitted, and in at least one case Democrats actively require funding of abortion and would override state laws on insurance coverage of abortion.

“Mr. President, let’s be very clear.

“This bill is a slap in the face to every American who believes in the sanctity of human life and doesn’t want his or her tax dollars going to pay for killing unborn human beings.

“You would think that if we can’t agree that the human rights of unborn children should be protected, we could at least agree that taxpayers shouldn’t be forced to pay for killing unborn children.

“Well, apparently even that is too much to ask of Democrats.

“Even though nearly 60 percent of Americans oppose having their tax dollars go to abortion.

“That’s right.

“Almost 60 percent of Americans do not want their tax dollars going to pay for abortions.

“But that doesn’t seem to matter to the Democrat Party, which is squarely in the pocket of the radical abortion lobby.

“And so Democrats’ legislation contains a radical commitment to government funding of abortions, against the wishes of a majority of the American people.

“It’s just one more reason why the Build Back Better plan is a bad deal for Americans.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=E83B1247-703B-4B67-A189-9842A863B847,Thune on America’s Newsroom: Voters Reject Democrats’ Big Government Policies,2021-11-04,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today joined “America’s Newsroom” to discuss the Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending spree and the Biden administration’s reported plan to give illegal immigrants $450,000 taxpayer-funded settlements.

On Democrats ignoring voters who reject their radical policies:

“I think they're in a bubble right now. They’re obviously not looking at, you know, what’s happening around the country and listening to the voices of the people out there. The clear message coming out of the elections on Tuesday night was that there was a rejection, a repudiation of this nanny state, big government approach the Democrats here in Washington are taking. And I don’t know how you can conclude any other way.

“I mean, obviously, in Virginia we saw a historic victory, and in New Jersey, a very close race. But in both cases, I think it was a response to the Biden agenda and the American people saying, ‘I don't want this, this isn't what I voted for.’ And so I think they're completely misinterpreting that message.”

On the Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending spree:

“But in the end, this bill is gonna be written by Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema in the Senate. And we’re hoping that we can do everything to try and restrain the amount of reckless spending and reckless taxing and reckless amount of debt that is going to come with this if something eventually passes.”

...

“If you look at what they’re contemplating doing here, there's gonna be a lot of duplication, a lot of overlap, a lot of spending that’s totally unnecessary. And you look at the things that are funded in here, and you know, their argument is the reason people voted the way they did on Tuesday night is because they don't know what's in this bill, they don't know how good it is for them. I would argue they do know what's in it.

“You know, funding hundreds of millions of dollars for urban agriculture, tree equity, you know, tax credits for universities and colleges that offer courses in environmental justice. This stuff is just, it's crazy left. And the country understands that, and that's why they're responding the way that they are.""

On the Biden administration’s reported plan to give illegal immigrants $450,000 taxpayer-funded cash settlements:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=04529DC8-CD77-4AEA-AC6C-6565B1BF8E11,Thune Remembers Jean Rounds,2021-11-03,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today remembered Jean Rounds, the late former first lady of the state of South Dakota, on the Senate floor.

Thune’s remarks below:

“Mr. President, let me begin this morning by saying how sorry we were to the hear the news about the loss of former First Lady Jean Rounds of the state of South Dakota.

“Mike and Jean have been friends of ours for many, many years.

“I was involved in Senator Rounds’ first campaign for office when he ran for state Senate back in 1990 – have known Jean since I worked in the administration of late Governor George Mickelson, along with her at the Department of Transportation, and I just can’t tell you what a loss it is for the state of South Dakota.

“She was an individual who carried herself with incredible grace – always kind – had a humility about her that I think people just found infectious.

“She was very down to earth – never lost that as a first lady – conducted herself in a way that represented a great model for the state of South Dakota. Both in her character, her conduct, the style, the way in which she served as first lady is something that I think made every South Dakotan proud.

“And so today, along with all South Dakotans, Kimberley and I mourn her loss, we lift up the Rounds family in our prayers and hope and pray that through this time they’ll feel God’s grace and comfort in new and profound ways.

“But just a tremendous loss. And I know for my colleague, Mike Rounds, who has been a great partner of mine – we’ve been involved in politics together now in South Dakota for over 30 years – that he, too, is going to need our support and our prayers in the days ahead.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=A092C098-5B6C-4B0B-B722-F5016585A17D,Thune: Voters Reject Democrats’ Radical Agenda,2021-11-03,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today delivered the following remarks highlighting that voters have rejected Washington Democrats’ radical tax-and-spending policies, which are out of step with the needs of the American people.

Thune’s remarks below (excerpts):

“There's a lot of interpretation about what happened in these off-year elections last night. Obviously, the results in two traditionally Democrat-leaning states are causing people to speculate about what it all means.”

…

“But some of what I heard this morning from Democrat analysts was that this is evidence that the Democrat Party needs to double down on the big, reckless tax-and-spending bill because people who voted in Virginia, in New Jersey last night didn't know what was in it. And when they find out all the good things that are in it, they're going to love this, and they're going to want to support Democrats.

“And I have to say, Mr. President, I think that completely misses the point. I think what people are saying is they don't want to hand the keys to their lives to Washington, D.C. This massive, reckless tax-and-spending spree that's being contemplated here by Senate Democrats is historic in its sweep, its expansion, its growth of government, its cost, its price tag, and it’s historic in terms of the amount of taxation that will be put on the backs of the American people in order to pay for it.

“And I think what happened last night was a repudiation. It was a repudiation of the nanny state and its belief that Washington knows best. And that we should get people in this country more dependent upon Washington, D.C. I think what the American people are saying is we don't want to be more dependent on Washington, D.C.”

…",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/statement-on-the-passing-of-jean-rounds,Statement on the Passing of Jean Rounds,2021-11-02,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"FT. PIERRE – Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D) released the following statement remembering his wife Jean who passed away this morning after battling sarcoma cancer:

“The love of my life is with the Lord. No more treatments. No more pain. Just peace. South Dakota knew her as First Lady. We knew her as wife, daughter, mom and grandma. She was everything to us. The prayers and support we received throughout this battle were powerful and made a difference. We ask for your continued prayer as we remember her life and grieve together as a family.”

To send condolences to the Rounds family, please visit rounds.senate.gov/Jean or send to:

P.O. Box 309

Pierre, South Dakota 57501",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=321353E3-3B83-4302-B3FC-5C6ED603E6C5,Thune: Six-Figure Cash Settlements for Illegal Immigrants are Insulting to Taxpayers,2021-11-02,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today blasted the Biden administration’s reported plan to give $450,000 settlements to migrants who illegally crossed our country’s southern border and are now suing the United States. Thune noted these payments would be six and a half times the median household income in the United States and warned that they would only encourage more migrants to make the dangerous journey to our southern border and break our country’s laws.

Excerpts of Thune’s remarks below:

“The Biden administration is overseeing the worst border crisis in America's history. Before it's all said and done this year, there'll be over 2 million people, or about 2 million people who will come into this country illegally.

“And now, to make matters worse, the administration is considering paying people who are here illegally, and are suing this country, $450,000 per person… That, if you think about it, is six and a half times the median average income in this country. It is four and a half times what is paid to the families of people who have lost soldiers in combat.”

…

“This, ladies and gentlemen, is an insult to the hard-working taxpayers in this country.

“The Biden administration's ideas, there's not a day that goes by around here where there isn't a horrible idea that comes out, and we've been dealing with that on a daily basis now for the past several weeks, but this is an idea that just has got to be done away with.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=9B111B49-2EC1-4657-96ED-E18DE95A1F79,Thune: Democrats Plan to Double Down on Inflation-Creating Policies,2021-11-02,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today discussed Democrats’ plan to flood the economy with unnecessary government money as they continue to ignore the growing inflation crisis. Thune noted that the Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending spree would only make inflation worse and that South Dakota families will ultimately pay the price.

On Democrats’ obsession with taxing and spending (excerpts):

“Mr. President, in all the time I’ve been in Washington in both the House and Senate … I’ve seen Republicans in control in the majorities, I’ve seen Democrats in the majority.

“I’ve been on both sides of that.

“I’ve seen Republican presidents and Democrat presidents, but one thing that doesn't change is that when Democrats get power in Washington, they want to expand government.

“They want to grow government.

“They want to spend money.

“If you just look throughout the history, at least in the time I’ve been here, that’s just a fact.”

…

“I guess it doesn't come as any surprise that that's what Democrats do when they gain power, when they get majorities – they want to grow, they want to expand the government, they want to spend more money and raise taxes to do it.

“It's almost like a kind of rite of passage that if you're going to be a good Democrat, this is what you do.”

…

“I think part of this is, you know, President Biden was convinced he could be the next FDR, and to do that you got to spend lots of money. … But they've come up with a big list, and a list again that would be financed with lots of tax increases that I think could be incredibly harmful to the economy.”

On rising inflation (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, last week we learned that economic growth for the third quarter had fallen short of expectations, largely driven by a deceleration in consumer spending and supply problems of goods and labor.

“Meanwhile, American families continue to deal with what is rapidly becoming a serious, long-term inflation problem.

“Last month, consumer prices rose at the fastest pace in 30 years.

“And a recent estimate from the chief economist at Moody’s Analytics suggested that an average household is having to spend an additional $175 a month on basics thanks to inflation.

“$175 a month.

“That may not sound like much to a wealthy Democrat politician, but that is a lot of money for an ordinary American family.

“$175 a month can be the difference between putting something away in savings, and living paycheck to paycheck.

“It can be the difference between whether or not you can afford braces for your child, or whether you have the money to replace a broken appliance or make a needed car repair.

“Our inflation problem has gotten to the point that it has overtaken wage growth.

“Inflation is growing faster than wages, which means that many American families have received a de facto pay cut.

“So how did we end up here?

“Well, Mr. President, a lot of the problem traces back to this past March, when Democrats decided to pour a lot of unnecessary government money into the economy under the guise of “COVID relief.”

“By the time the president and Democrats took office in January, Congress had passed no fewer than five bipartisan COVID relief bills – the most recent of them in December.

“The December COVID relief bill we passed contained almost a trillion dollars in funding and met essentially all the pressing COVID needs the country was facing.

“But that didn’t matter to Democrats.

“Now that they were in charge, they were eager to take advantage of the opportunity the COVID crisis presented to push their big-government agenda.

“And so they decided to pass another – ostensible – COVID bill, less than three months after the December bill and before a lot of the money from the December bill had even been disbursed.

“They gave $129 billion to schools – even though schools had spent just a small fraction of the $68 billion they’d already been given.

“They created a staggering $350 billion slush fund for states – despite the fact that the majority of states already had the money they needed to deal with the pandemic.

“They extended enhanced unemployment benefits until September 2021, despite the millions of available job openings, and made part of the unemployment compensation tax-free – creating incentives for Americans to stay on unemployment instead of returning to work.

“And, among other things, they provided an additional $21 billion in rental assistance – none of which has yet been needed.

“In short, their so-called American Rescue Plan flooded the economy with a lot of unnecessary government money.

“And the results were predictable:

“Inflation.

“Mr. President, the definition of inflation is too many dollars chasing too few goods and services.

“And that’s exactly the situation Democrats created.

“They sent too many dollars into the economy – and the economy overheated as a result.

“And you don’t have to take my word for it.

“Here’s what former Obama economic adviser Jason Furman had to say recently when discussing our current inflation problem: ‘The original sin was an oversized American Rescue Plan. It contributed to both higher output but also higher prices.’

“That quote from Mr. Furman appeared in a recent New York Times article that also noted, and I quote, ‘But some economists, including veterans of previous Democratic administrations, say much of Mr. Biden’s inflation struggle is self-inflicted. Lawrence H. Summers is one of those who say the stimulus bill the president signed in March gave too much of a boost to consumer spending … Mr. Summers, who served in the Obama and Clinton administrations, says inflation now risks spiraling out of control and other Democratic economists agree there are risks.’

“So what are congressional Democrats doing in response?

“Well, they’re planning to flood the economy with even more government dollars.

“That’s right.

“Instead of keeping a sharp eye on government spending to make sure our inflation situation doesn’t get worse, Democrats are planning to double down on the strategy that got us into this position in the first place.

“Democrats are trying to finalize a new, $1.75 trillion tax-and-spending spree – the so-called ‘Build Back Better’ plan – on top of the $1.9 trillion spending spree from earlier this year.

“I say $1.75 trillion – but Democrats have only arrived at that number through a combination of shell games and budget gimmicks.

“The real cost of this proposal over 10 years would likely be much higher.

“So once again Democrats want to flood the economy with government dollars – including billions for such ‘priorities’ as tree equity and “environmental justice” programs at well-funded colleges and universities.

“Mr. President, I am forcibly reminded of the definition of insanity as doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.

“What exactly do Democrats think is going to happen inflation-wise if they pass this $1.75 trillion legislation?

“Do they think that if one round of excessive government spending triggered inflation, another round of excessive government spending is going to cure it?

“Do they think that dumping more fuel onto an already overheated economy is somehow going to put out the inflationary fire?

“If they do, they’ve got another think coming.

“The only thing Democrats’ latest spending spree is going to do is make our inflation problem worse.

“We’re already looking at serious inflation lasting well into next year.

“Add Democrats’ ‘Build Back Better’ spending spree to the mix, and we could be looking at a very long period of inflated prices … and reduced spending power for American families.

“Mr. President, Democrats were warned that their March spending spree could spur inflation.

“They passed it anyway.

“So I don’t have a lot of hope that Democrats will heed concerns about inflation when it comes to their current tax-and-spending plan.

“But I – and every Republican – will continue to urge my Democrat colleagues to rethink their spending agenda, before inflation soars out of control and American families suffer the consequences.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rounds-nominates-the-lee-family-of-colman-for-angels-in-adoption-award,Rounds Nominates the Lee Family of Colman for Angels in Adoption Award,2021-11-01,2021,2021-11,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"PIERRE—U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) announced that he has nominated Sandra and Chad Lee of Colman for the 2021 Angels in Adoption Award, presented by the Congressional Coalition on Adoption (CCAI). Sandra and Chad, along with their children Adam and Amanda, adopted Daniela, Christopher and Mikano from Haiti in 2010.

“Every year, I have the great honor of recognizing a South Dakota family who has made a life changing impact on the lives of children,” said Rounds. “Sandra, Chad, Adam and Amanda answered a calling from God to change the life of not one child, but three. More than a decade after adopting Daniela, Christopher and Mikano from Haiti, the Lee family continues to advocate for orphans and the importance of reducing barriers to adoption. Today, the Lee children are engaged in a variety of school activities, including academics, sports and their church’s youth group. I am proud to recognize this inspirational family.”

“We are so honored to have been selected to receive the Angels in Adoption Award this year,” said Sandra Lee. “Adoption is near and dear to our hearts! Many blessings that we just take for granted are life-changers for children from tough places. In addition to the basic needs of food, clothing, shelter, and medical care, children also desperately need and deserve stability, security, and a place to always belong. Adoption is a great way to climb outside ourselves to be the hands and feet of Jesus. We are so thankful that God has chosen to use our family in this way! Likewise, we want to encourage others to consider the impact they can have in the life of a child—mentoring, foster care, adoption, or supporting those who do—everyone can make a difference.”

In January 2010, the world witnessed the destruction and devastation in Haiti following the 7.0 magnitude earthquake. Sixteen months into the rigorous adoption process, the Lee family was not immediately aware of the children’s well-being or the status of the orphanage. Thankfully, the children were safe. It was not until a month after the earthquake, through the work of South Dakota’s congressional delegation and adoption agency staff in-country, that Daniela, Christopher and Mikano boarded a plane to the United States. Their evacuation from Haiti, prior to completion of the adoption, was made possible when Humanitarian Parole approval for Haitian orphans was granted. Then on November 30, 2010, the Lee family officially made Daniela, Christopher, and Mikano members of their family, joining Sandra and Chad’s twins, Adam and Amanda.

Today, the Lee family are active members in Katelyn’s Fund Orphan Ministry and The Gathering Well, two organizations that support families who foster or adopt, and advocate for the cause of orphans around the world. The Lee family has appreciated their community’s support and encouragement throughout the past decade.

Rounds is a member of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption. Each year, Members of Congress are invited to nominate an outstanding family or organization from their state to receive an Angels in Adoption award. CCAI is a 501(c)3 nonpartisan organization dedicated to raising awareness about the tens of thousands of orphans and foster children in the United States and the millions of orphans around the world in need of permanent, safe and loving homes through adoption. For more information, visit CCAI’s website.

Rounds is currently accepting applications for 2022 Angels in Adoption Award. For more information, please visit: rounds.senate.gov/adoption.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=2F0DCB42-7721-45A2-AC36-F9642F2A03BB,"Thune, Brown Push to Improve Prior Authorization in Medicare Advantage Plans",2021-10-29,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio.) this week led a bipartisan group of senators in requesting an update on the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) efforts to streamline prior authorization protocols across programs, including Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. The senators are encouraging the Biden administration to take additional steps to strengthen prior authorization policies and make them more efficient for all Americans, including MA beneficiaries.

“We support CMS’s efforts to protect beneficiaries, increase transparency around prior authorization requirements, and streamline prior authorization processes for patients, providers, and health plans,” the senators wrote. “We request an update on CMS’s plans to revisit and advance policies to modernize and improve prior authorization for patients and providers.”

Thune recently introduced the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act, bipartisan legislation that would improve timely access to quality care for seniors under MA. Specifically, the bill would modernize the way MA plans and health care providers use prior authorization. This legislation addresses the top administrative issue for physicians, and it would make the delivery of health care more patient- and doctor-friendly.

The letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Susan Collins (R-Maine.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.).

Full letter below:

The Honorable Chiquita Brooks-LaSure

Administrator

U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

7500 Security Boulevard

Baltimore, M.D. 21244

Dear Administrator Brooks-LaSure:

We write to thank you for your commitment to ensuring timely access to health care for all Americans, and to request an update on the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) efforts to streamline prior authorization protocols across programs. We encourage you to take additional steps to strengthen prior authorization policies and make them more efficient for all Americans, including Medicare Advantage (MA) beneficiaries.

We appreciate the recent actions CMS has taken related to prior authorization that attempt to strike a balance between program integrity and patient access to care. In December 2020, CMS issued a proposed rule to modernize processes related to prior authorization that would reduce significant burdens on health care providers and patients and improve patient outcomes.[1] This notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) would have made changes to streamline prior authorization processes across Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and federally-facilitated exchange (FFE) plans. To our disappointment, CMS formally withdrew these proposed changes to the prior authorization process in March 2021.

More recently, CMS issued a memorandum to MA plans, strongly encouraging all MA plans to waive or relax prior authorization requirements and utilization management processes related to COVID-19.[2] While we agree that prior authorization, when used appropriately, is an important tool for payers to manage costs and ensure program integrity, we support CMS’s efforts to protect beneficiaries, increase transparency around prior authorization requirements, and streamline prior authorization processes for patients, providers, and health plans. We request an update on CMS’s plans to revisit and advance policies to modernize and improve prior authorization for patients and providers.

As you have stated to Members of Congress, “providers and beneficiaries should not have to jump through unnecessary hoops for access to medically appropriate care.”[3] The bipartisan, bicameral Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act proposes a balanced approach to prior authorization in the MA program that would remove barriers to patients’ timely access to care and allow providers to spend more time treating patients and less on paperwork hurdles.

We request an update on your recommended next steps for improving and streamlining prior authorization processes in a manner that benefits providers, health plans, and taxpayers, but especially beneficiaries – including MA enrollees. We urge you to build on CMS’s prior work and use your regulatory authority to improve the prior authorization process across health plans, in line with the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act, by:

establishing an electronic, “real-time” prior authorization process across federal programs, including MA plans;

reducing administrative burden for both providers and health plans;

minimizing the use of prior authorization for routinely approved items and services;

increasing transparency around prior authorization requirements and clinical information needed to support decisions; and

expanding beneficiary protections.

We look forward to learning more about CMS’s ongoing work to preserve timely access to medically necessary care, and we look forward to working together to streamline prior authorization protocols and implementing reforms that will improve the transparency and efficiency of prior authorization protocols in a manner that benefits beneficiaries.

Thank you again for your dedication to this matter.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=A4EC038F-DBC8-4DA0-ACA7-C46D92A36B1B,"Thune, Colleagues Urge USDA to Prioritize Broadband Funding to Rural Americans",2021-10-29,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) this week urged U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack to prioritize broadband funding to unserved areas in rural America. The letter requests that USDA continue to grant awards to areas where there is a higher percentage of unserved households, increase its coordination efforts with other agencies administering broadband programs, and give equal treatment to all applicants.

The Rural eConnectivity Pilot Program (ReConnect Program) was established under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2018 in order to provide broadband services to rural areas through grants. On October 22, 2021, USDA announced it would make an additional $1.15 billion available for the third round of the program. The third round will begin accepting applications on November 24, 2021, and it will close on February 22, 2022.

“USDA has been given a tremendous responsibility to disburse funding that can improve broadband access in rural America,” the senators wrote. “We ask you to take every possible step to make the greatest possible use of this opportunity so that the ReConnect program can go as far as possible towards achieving our shared goal of connecting all Americans.”

Full text of the letter below:

The Honorable Tom Vilsack

Secretary

U.S. Department of Agriculture

1400 Independence Avenue, Southwest

Washington, DC 20250-1590

Dear Secretary Vilsack,

Congress has dedicated billions of dollars to bring broadband service to all Americans. Yet today, there remain some Americans - largely in remote and very rural parts of America - that lack access to broadband service. We are writing today to ask you to continue to prioritize these Americans as you grant funding under the Rural Utilities Service’s (RUS) Rural eConnectivity Pilot Program (ReConnect). Focusing the third round of ReConnect funding on truly unserved areas would make the program more effective and lead to far more meaningful progress in bringing broadband to Americans who remain unconnected.

Under program rules, ReConnect awards are only allowed in unserved areas where at least 90 percent of households do not have access to broadband. Adjusting the definition of what is considered “unserved” from the first two rounds must be done carefully to target funds to where they are needed most and to avoid setting standards that conflict with other federal broadband deployment programs. While the unserved standards may need to increase as more unserved areas become served, it is important to note every round of ReConnect funding made available thus far has been oversubscribed with far more applicants than actual funding available, meaning there are still many areas that are unserved at the current definition and in need of help.

A decreased focus on targeting funds to areas most in need could lead to significant government-subsidized overbuilding of existing broadband infrastructure—some of which is itself subsidized by other programs. Therefore, as RUS implements the third round and any additional rounds of ReConnect funding, we ask you to ensure that projects in areas with higher percentages of unserved households receive maximum priority over all other proposals. If unserved areas are not adequately prioritized, the program may fail to achieve the goal of reaching rural communities and closing the digital divide.

Identifying unserved areas is also critical to avoid wasteful spending in areas already served or planned to be served by private investment or other federal and state broadband programs. We strongly encourage you to increase your coordination efforts with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), National Telecommunications and Information Administration, Department of Treasury, and any other agencies administering broadband programs. To ensure the greatest impact of these funds and to avoid overbuilding, government agencies that award broadband funding, including RUS, should take data maintained by other agencies into account in making awards, in addition to continuing your own significant “on-the-ground” efforts to verify broadband coverage.

Additionally, the potential for overbuilding may be increased when RUS does not consider pending FCC auction winners. The FCC engages in a final review of providers after its auctions to ensure that they will be able to meet their deployment obligations, a process designed to help avoid waste, fraud, and abuse. We would ask that you coordinate closely with the FCC on the status of those reviews and take into account any information it can provide to RUS with respect to the status of FCC auction applications as ReConnect awards are considered in a given area.

Finally, the ReConnect program has given all types of broadband providers the opportunity to participate equally in the competitive grant program. As long as providers have met the objective technical, financial, and operational standards set by RUS, any provider could participate on equal footing with their counterparts in the industry. USDA should continue to look to providers of all kinds, provided they meet the criteria for program participation and awards.

USDA has been given a tremendous responsibility to disburse funding that can improve broadband access in rural America. We ask you to take every possible step to make the greatest possible use of this opportunity so that the ReConnect program can go as far as possible towards achieving our shared goal of connecting all Americans.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-bourdeaux-covid-infrastructure-bill-gains-support-industry-leaders-and,"Johnson, Bourdeaux COVID Infrastructure Bill Gains Support from Industry Leaders and Lawmakers",2021-10-28,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Reps. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and Carolyn Bourdeaux (D-GA-07) introduced the State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial Fiscal Recovery, Infrastructure, and Disaster Relief Flexibility Act, to make various infrastructure investments eligible for payment with existing unspent COVID-19 relief funds.

Industry leaders and Members of Congress expressed support for the State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial Fiscal Recovery, Infrastructure, and Disaster Relief Flexibility Act:

""States are sitting on billions of COVID-19 relief dollars from the federal government far exceeding their COVID relief needs,"" Representative David Rouzer (R-NC-07). ""I'm proud to cosponsor this common sense bill, which will allow states to use this excess funding for their infrastructure needs as well as disaster relief.""

""I am proud that my Direct Support for Communities Act funding formula is delivering dollars to counties, towns, and villages across upstate New York and the United States,"" said Representative Antonio Delgado (D-NY-19). ""Since the American Rescue Plan was passed, I have met with local leaders who are using this essential funding to invest in infrastructure, fight addiction, and support our veterans. I want to thank Representatives Johnson, Cuellar, and Bourdeaux for their partnership to expand the eligible usages of this important funding. This bipartisan legislation will give our local governments additional flexibility to address disaster events, improve local infrastructure, expand affordable housing, and more.""

""Investing in our nation's infrastructure is a top priority for me, so I'm proud to cosponsor this bipartisan bill to give states like Alabama the flexibility they need to spend unused COVID-19 relief dollars on critical investments in our nation's infrastructure,"" said Representative Jerry Carl (R-AL-01). Unfortunately, Nancy Pelosi refuses to bring this bill to a vote because she is more focused on raising our taxes, bankrupting America, and playing political games. It's time to put the American people first and pass this bipartisan, commonsense bill.""

""It's important that we understand every state, town, and district has unique needs coming out of the pandemic,"" said Representative Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05). ""Enabling our towns to utilize unused COVID-19 relief to improve their local infrastructure allows local communities to decide what they need the most. With this bipartisan legislation, we will help our states, and communities in North Jersey and nationwide, to make the infrastructure and transportation improvements they need and to ensure that we can fully recover from the pandemic. This bill has already passed the Senate with bipartisan support. It's time for the House to act.""

""I want to provide our local leaders with the flexibility to use unspent COVID-19 relief funds for projects their community need most,"" said Congressman Barr (R-KY-06). ""Infrastructure is a real need. We must upgrade our roads, bridges, airports, wastewater and other traditional infrastructure throughout the Commonwealth. This commonsense proposal provides the opportunity to do just that without a massive tax increase, more blowout spending or new government mandates.""

""This bipartisan legislation is a commonsense solution that will give state and local governments the flexibility they need to use COVID relief funds to address all facets of the pandemic, including the need to rebuild our local economies,"" saidRepresentative Chris Pappas (D-NH-01). ""Enabling New Hampshire communities to use unspent relief funds for critical infrastructure projects will create good-paying jobs, ensure we can make needed safety upgrades to our infrastructure, and boost economic activity across the region.""

""As we continue on the path of recovery from the pandemic and its economic effects, state and local governments need flexibility with COVID-19 relief funding,"" said Kim Schrier, M.D. (D-WA-08). ""Governments should be able to use unused relief funding on transportation and infrastructure needs that will create jobs and fix crumbling roads and bridges. I'm glad to support this common sense, bipartisan legislation.""

""We thank the bipartisan leaders who introduced this important piece of legislation,"" said Matt Chase, Executive Director of the National Association of Counties (NACo). ""The flexibility provided in this bill is crucial, as some local governments struggle to make necessary investments in their community in compliance with the existing guidance for the ARPA Recovery Funds. The State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial Fiscal Recovery, Infrastructure, and Disaster Relief Flexibility Act would allow counties to invest over $27 billion in infrastructure and over $17 billion in government services, as they make decisions about how best to strengthen their communities. As we continue to respond to COVID-19 and its disastrous impact on our communities, counties applaud our partners in Congress who recognize the role that local governments will play in our recovery.""

""Local infrastructure is the backbone of the nation's economy,"" said Kevan Stone, CEO & Executive Director of the National Association of County Engineers. ""This legislation will allow county governments to designate previously allocated funds to areas where they are needed most. The nation's county road professionals own and maintain more road and bridge miles than any other government entity, and we applaud Representatives Johnson and Bordeaux for their efforts to ensure this crucial measure is enacted.""

""H.R. 5735 wisely expands flexibility for town and township officials to invest ARPA COVID relief funding in a manner that local officials know will make the greatest impact in their community to assist the country in recovering from the pandemic,"" said Mike Koles, President, National Association of Towns and Townships; Executive Director, Wisconsin Towns Association. ""Importantly, this bill empowers them to address supply chain issues by significantly expanding the ability to allocate funding to critical infrastructure projects.""

""NSSGA thanks Reps. Bordeaux and Johnson for their introduction of H.R. 5735, the State, Local, Tribal and Territorial Fiscal Recovery, Infrastructure and Disaster Relief Flexibility Act,"" said Michele Stanley, Vice President of Government and Regulatory Affairs, National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association. ""Utilizing unspent federal funds is the best investment our country can make to improve and expand our nation's vital surface transportation network.""

""The National League of Cities supports the flexibility H.R.5735 provides cities to make the most effective use of their ARPA relief support by opening up new eligibilities for transportation and community development. Moving the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and H.R.5735 will leverage the resources communities have to recover and rebuild."" – The National League of Cities.

""The American Foundry Society thanks Reps. Carolyn Bordeaux (D-GA) and Dusty Johnson (R-SD) for leading this legislative effort, which would allow states, counties and localities to expand the allowable uses of the recovery funds from the American Rescue Plan for infrastructure, disaster relief, housing, community development, and other key investments. Many of these projects were sidelined during the pandemic and will help put states on a stronger path to recovery."" – The American Foundry Society.

""The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) strongly supports H.R. 5735, the State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial Fiscal Recovery, Infrastructure, and Disaster Relief Flexibility Act,"" said APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas. ""This bill would unlock $123 billion of funding for public transportation and other infrastructure, at the discretion of state and local authorities. These vital investments will make our economy stronger, significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve public health, and help transform our nation's transportation network for a sustainable future.""

This legislation is supported by the National Association of Counties, National League of Cities, American Road & Transportation Builders Association, American Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials, American Public Transportation Association, National League of Cities, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Association of Counties, Transport Workers Union of America, American Chemistry Council, Associated General Contractors of America, American Society of Civil Engineers, Building America's Future, American Highway Users Alliance, American Traffic Safety Services Association, National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association, American Institute of Steel Construction, National Association of Home Builders, Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations, National Association of Regional Councils, National Association of Development Organizations (NADO), Associated Equipment Distributors, National Ready Mixed Concrete Association, Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association (SMACNA), National Association of County Engineers, Institute of Makers of Explosives, American Subcontractors Association, Design-Build Institute of America, American Foundry Society, Coalition for America's Gateways & Trade Corridors, Community Transportation Association of America, Portland Cement Association, American Concrete Pipe Association, American Public Works Association, National Association of Surety Bond Producers, FCA International, National Governor's Association, and the National Association of Towns and Townships.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rounds-seeking-spring-2022-internship-applications,Rounds Seeking Spring 2022 Internship Applications,2021-10-28,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"PIERRE—U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) is currently accepting applications from college students to serve as interns during the spring semester. Positions are available in his Washington D.C. office and his state offices in Aberdeen, Rapid City, Pierre and Sioux Falls. Spring semester internships typically run from January-May, but dates can be tailored to specific schedules.

“Our internship program is an incredible opportunity for students to experience a deeper understanding of the political process,” said Rounds. “Interns are crucial to our office operations both in South Dakota and in Washington. The program is open to students from all areas of discipline – not just political science. I encourage interested college students to apply for the upcoming spring semester today.”

“I truly enjoyed every minute of my internship,” said Arden Koenecke of Pierre, a summer 2021 intern in Rounds’ D.C. office. “I returned home with tangible skills, better knowledge of the Senate and friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you to Senator Rounds and his staff for a great semester!”

Intern duties include researching bills, tracking legislation, attending committee hearings and briefings, handling constituent phone calls and other correspondence, sorting mail and providing support in all areas of the office to Sen. Rounds and his staff. Internships can also be tailored to the intern’s specific interest areas when possible.

Interested students can apply at https://www.rounds.senate.gov/internships. For more information, please call Rebecca Herman at (605) 336-0486.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=FFF6A0D9-3F24-499D-8EC6-9C033A2A68E0,Thune: Democrats Continue to Have Misplaced Priorities,2021-10-28,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today called out Democrats for prioritizing their radical agenda and government expansion ahead of passing the National Defense Authorization Act or critical legislation to address the energy and border crises. Thune noted that Democrats are continuing to ignore important issues that are impacting Americans and are instead focusing solely on their reckless tax-and-spending spree.

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, work continues on Democrats’ socialist spending spree.

“And the Senate seems to be on track to vote on their bill in the near future.

“Well, maybe.

“It depends who you ask at any given time around here these days.

“Just to highlight the high level of uncertainty surrounding this process, President Biden was on Capitol Hill just this morning – his second visit this month – to twist the arms of still undecided Democrats.

“As they continue to see what sticks to the wall, it’s good to know that priorities like government jobs for climate activists, tax credits for ‘environmental justice’ programs at colleges and universities, and $200 million for a park in Speaker Pelosi’s district may soon come up for a vote in the Senate.

“It’s just too bad that Democrats have been so focused on expanding government that they haven’t actually taken time to do some of the essential business of government.

“Mr. President, fiscal year 2021 ended a month ago.

“We’re into fiscal year 2022.

“Yet so far the Senate has not taken up a single appropriations bill for the 2022 fiscal year.

“On the other hand, perhaps it’s not surprising, since the 2022 appropriations bills recently introduced by the committee chair are rabidly partisan productions, packed with poison pills that one can only assume are designed to make the bills fail.

“Taxpayer funding of abortion, a measure that would allow Democrats to use the IRS for partisan purposes, policies that would allow certain criminal illegal aliens to be released into the United States … we may be better off without these bills.

“One bill that there’s no question we should have taken up months ago, however, is the National Defense Authorization Act.

“The NDAA is one of the most important bills we consider each year.

“It authorizes funding for national defense priorities, like critical upgrades to our defense capabilities, as well as funding for our military men and women, from pay increases to protective equipment to investments in Impact Aid.

“It’s not a bill we can afford to ignore.

“But under Senate Democrats, the bill has taken a back seat to Democrats’ pet priority – their massive, partisan tax-and-spending legislation.

“So while Democrats focus on expanding the size of government, critical military priorities are going unauthorized and unfunded.

“Without the NDAA – and then the defense appropriations bill – the military can’t sign off on contracts for critical new equipment.

“Shipbuilding projects, military infrastructure projects, development of new combat systems … they’re all having to wait while Democrats negotiate over their socialist spending spree.

“In my state of South Dakota, Ellsworth Air Force Base is currently preparing to be the first home of the B-21 bomber, where we’ll host both the Formal Training Unit and first operational squadron.

“The B-21 bomber will eventually replace the Air Force’s aging B-1 fleet and ensure that we have a long-range strike asset and leg of the nuclear triad capable of meeting the threats of the 21st century – wherever in the world they are found.

“This year’s NDAA authorizes critical funding for developing the B-21 and starting to transform Ellsworth to prepare for the mission, plus a requirement to maintain the remaining B-1 fleet until the bombers can be replaced by the B-21.

“This is just one of the many critical national security investments that we can’t afford to delay.

“But I guess our military men and women will just have to understand that Democrats’ socialist spending spree takes priority.

“Mr. President, it’s not just our military men and women or appropriations bills that have had to take a back seat to Democrats’ burning desire to expand the size of government and its reach into Americans’ lives.

“With their single-minded focus on their tax-and-spending spree – and, of course, on federalizing election law to give themselves a permanent advantage in future elections – real crises facing our nation seem to barely register on Democrats’ radar.

“We’re in the midst of a serious, increasingly long-term inflation problem – a problem Democrats helped trigger by dumping a lot of unnecessary government money into the economy earlier this year – yet Democrats are not only ignoring this crisis, they’re preparing to make things worse by dumping even more government money into our economy.

“Then there’s the crisis at our southern border.

“Mr. President, U.S. Customs and Border Protection encountered 192,001 individuals attempting to cross our southern border in September – a 233 percent increase from the previous September.

“233 percent.

“Customs and Border Protection apprehended more than 1.7 million individuals attempting to cross our southern border in fiscal year 2021 – the highest number ever.

“We have a security, enforcement, and humanitarian crisis at our southern border.

“And there’s no sign that things are getting any better.

“Yet you could be forgiven for wondering if Democrats have even noticed.

“I’m pretty sure the president and his administration spent more time earlier this year fighting against the use of the word crisis to describe the situation at the border than they did actually thinking about how they might deal with the influx.

“The president’s main response to the situation seems to be ignoring it in hopes it will go away.

“He’s happy to travel all over the place – whether to a campaign rally in Virginia or a climate change summit overseas.

“But he can’t seem to find a minute to visit the border.

“And the border crisis is not the only crisis the president is ignoring.

“The president’s disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal was a real low point for this country.

“Thirteen of our military men and women died in a terrorist attack.

“We abandoned thousands of individuals who had worked with us in Afghanistan and whom we had promised to protect.

“Not to mention hundreds of Americans still working to find a way home.

“And the president who was supposed to restore our standing on the world stage left our allies wondering if our word could be relied on.

“Most of all, the disastrous withdrawal has left our country in a much more precarious national security position.

“Afghanistan is ripe to once again become a terrorist haven.

“Just this week, a Pentagon official testified that ISIS-K – ISIS’ Afghanistan affiliate – could be ready to launch terrorist attacks on our homeland in as little as six months.

“Six months.

“And al-Qaeda, which looks set to once again find a safe haven in Afghanistan, could be ready to launch attacks in a year.

“Yet once again, this barely seems to register on the Biden administration’s radar.

“We still have no agreements with neighboring countries to establish or make use of bases to launch counterterrorism operations in Afghanistan.

“The administration is apparently working on the situation.

“Well, quite frankly, this is something the administration should have figured out before withdrawing our troops from Afghanistan and destroying our ability to conduct counterterrorism operations within the country.

“Unfortunately, the president was more focused on meeting his predetermined, arbitrary deadline than on dealing with the actual situation on the ground – with predictably catastrophic consequences.

“Mr. President, a lot of priorities have had to take a back seat to Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree.

“I only wish the bill were worth it.

“Unfortunately, Democrats’ massive spending bill is likely to worsen our inflation crisis, weaken our economy, and increase government intrusion into Americans’ lives.

“Meanwhile, I guess our border crisis and national security priorities will have to continue to wait until Democrats find the time to address them.

“I’m not holding my breath.

“Mr. President, I yield the floor.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=2BD810E6-09B6-47CF-9686-9D96F1EEB6B3,Thune: Democrats Prioritize Radical Climate Agenda Over Addressing Ongoing Energy Crisis,2021-10-27,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today spoke about the egregious climate policies in Democrats’ radical spending bill. Thune reiterated that Democrats in Washington are out-of-touch with the needs and priorities of rural states like South Dakota, and increasing taxes amid soaring prices on utilities and gas will hurt American families.

On taxing unrealized gains (excerpts):

“Mr. President, it's another day and another really bad idea coming from the Democrats to fund their reckless tax-and-spending spree.

“It seems like, that to fund this massive amount of spending, they're trying desperately to come up with new revenue sources, so much so that as of yesterday still under consideration was a tax on unrealized gains.

“In other words, on income that people haven't received yet.”

…

“Never before has that been attempted or tried or implemented in American history where you would actually have a tax on income before people actually ever receive the income.”

…

“It's a good example of the desperate lengths to which Democrats are trying to come up with new ways to fund this reckless taxing-and-spending spree that they seem to be insistent on trying to force through Congress with an evenly divided Senate and evenly divided House of Representatives.

“It's hard to imagine that you could do something that radical, but this entire proposal is that radical, which is why they are having such a hard time getting even people in their own caucuses to agree to it.”

On Democrats’ radical climate agenda (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, two years ago, Democrats introduced their original Green New Deal resolution.

“While the guiding principle of the Green New Deal was climate change and energy, Democrats didn’t limit themselves to these issues.

“They outlined a radical, comprehensive socialist revamping of our society, with the federal government inserting itself into nearly every aspect of American life.

“And while Democrats haven’t advanced one all-inclusive bill to implement their Green New Deal – probably because of the absolutely staggering price tag for a comprehensive piece of legislation – the Green New Deal’s socialist vision has rapidly become an organizing principle of the Democrat Party.

“For proof, look no further than the tax-and-spending spree Democrats are contemplating, with its massive expansion of government and radical climate agenda.

“Mr. President, one major problem with Democrats is that they never seem to fully consider the cost of their legislation – whether it’s the actual dollar amount or other costs their proposals might impose.

“And nowhere is that more true than with Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree.

“Mr. President, I’ve spent a lot of time on the floor talking about things like the way this bill will further drive up inflation and the dangers it poses for economic growth.

“Today I want to address some of the costs of the bill’s Green New Deal-esque energy provisions – starting with the cost to American families.

“Mr. President, we know some energy prices are increasing due to the rising demand from the lows of the pandemic.

“Yesterday’s average price for a gallon of gas was $3.38.

“That’s compared to an average price of $2.16 one year earlier.

“Meanwhile, natural gas prices recently hit a seven-year high, and there are mounting concerns about supply.

“Americans are paying a lot more to drive their cars, heat their homes, and cook their food.

“The high cost of gasoline and of natural gas are two more reasons why Americans are finding that their paychecks don’t stretch as far these days.

“Mr. President, given the situation, you’d think that finding ways to lower energy costs would be among Democrats’ top priorities right now.

“Well, you’d be wrong.

“Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree isn’t going to lower energy prices – it’s going to drive them even higher.

“The new energy policies Democrats are considering would drive up the cost of electricity, natural gas, and gasoline and subsidize Democrats’ preferred technologies with Americans’ tax dollars.

“And the icing on the cake is that Americans are likely to be paying higher electric costs for possibly worse electric service.

“A lot of Americans are familiar with the problems with California’s electric grid – namely, blackouts.

“Well, if Democrats have their way, Americans around the country will be able to enjoy California-style electricity – in other words, expensive and inconsistent electricity delivery – along with higher gas prices.

“Mr. President, this is what I mean when I talk about Democrats not fully considering the costs.

“Nobody questions that clean energy is a good thing.

“I’ve been a strong supporter of clean energy innovation, from wind power to biofuels.

“In 2020, 83 percent of the electricity generated in my state of South Dakota came from renewable sources.

“But clean-energy policies need to be realistic and practical for each region.

“We have to, for example, understand that we’re not yet at the point innovation-wise where we can rely mostly on intermittent, renewable sources to power electric grids.

“We still need reliable, baseload power from sources like clean natural gas and nuclear.

“Additionally, forcing older electric plants to close before the end of their remaining useful life, especially the most modern and efficient ones, will strand those assets.

“Our utilities make long-term investments, and when they can’t recoup those facility investments, they pass the cost on to consumers.

“Overreaching clean-energy policies that place heavy burdens on working families are unacceptable.

“Wealthy Democrat politicians – and the wealthy donor class that supports them – may not have to worry much if they have to spend more on their electric bill or an extra $20 or $25 filling up their gas tank.

“But that’s a big deal to a family on a budget – especially when that family is also dealing with the increased price of food and other basics.

“Thanks to inflation and other pressures on gas prices, Americans are already having to spend a lot more money to fill their gas tanks.

“Add in Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree, and many working families could end up unable to fill their gas tank when they need to due to a diminished oil and gas sector.

“Maybe that’s the goal of some more extreme members of the Democrat Party.

“But it’s an unacceptable one.

“Mr. President, working families are likely to have a tough time thanks to the energy provisions in Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree.

“But wealthy families should do a little better.

“Not only are they more likely to be able to afford increases in the price of electricity and gas, but they will also be able to claim a tax credit from the federal government if they want to purchase an expensive electric vehicle.

“Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree will offer tax credits of up to $12,500 for the purchase of an electric car or truck (with the biggest credit, naturally, going to those who purchase union-made vehicles).

“That’s right.

“Only electric vehicles produced at facilities ‘under a union-negotiated collective bargaining agreement’ would be eligible for the $4,500 plus-up, which would take the credit up to $12,500.

“And anyone making up to $400,000 will be able to claim this credit.

“Yes.

“Under Democrats’ legislation, you could be making nearly half a million dollars a year and yet still receive a substantial tax break for the purchase of an electric car.

“Meanwhile, more accessible and readily available clean-energy technologies – notably, biofuels – take a back seat in this bill.

“Electric vehicles are Democrats’ chosen winner in the transportation sector – no matter how impractical they may still be for a lot of working Americans.

“Speaking of impractical, if you want an electric bike to go along with your electric car, Democrats will give you a tax credit for that as well.

“Yes, Democrats’ bill contains a tax credit for electric bicycles – a credit that would go to bicycles that can cost up to $8,000.

“It may just be me, but if you can afford an $8,000 electric bicycle, I’m not sure you need a tax credit for it from the federal government.

“Also, while electric bicycles may have their appeal in urban and maybe some suburban communities, they are a completely impractical option for most individuals in states like South Dakota.

“When you live 20 miles away from the nearest grocery store, an electric bicycle is not going to be your vehicle of choice for getting around.

“And I’m pretty sure that South Dakota agriculture producers will back me up when I say that electric bicycles are not going to be much use for getting out to check the fences in the far corners of the ranch.

“However, Mr. President, I’ve got to say that tax credits for electric bicycles are far from the most wasteful use of government money in the bill.

“That honor might have to go to the new tax credit for higher-education institutions for teaching ‘environmental justice’ programs.

“Yes.

“I’m sure Americans will be relieved to know that Democrats are planning to create a new tax credit for higher-education institutions, including Ivy League schools and other well-funded universities, so that they can teach courses on ‘environmental justice’ – whatever that is.

“You would think colleges that charge students tens of thousands – if not hundreds of thousands – of dollars in tuition could perhaps afford to fund their own “environmental justice” programs.

“But I guess you’d be wrong.

“Then there’s the $3 billion the bill provides for tree equity.

“Yes.

“Tree equity.

“I support – and encourage – the planting of trees, and I have introduced a straightforward bill to rapidly expand tree planting across the country without any federal spending.

“But I’m fairly sure the federal government cannot afford to spend $3 billion on tree equity.

“Especially when Democrats need to save money for their Civilian Climate Corps – a new government program to provide government jobs (and subsidized housing) to climate activists.

“And for much more.

“Mr. President, the word is that Democrats will soon be releasing a new version of their tax-and-spending spree.

“I can only hope that it will be less extreme than the current version.

“Because if the bill’s current Green New Deal-esque energy provisions go into effect, Americans are going to be looking at a future of higher energy costs, diminished energy resources, and weakened energy independence.

“Not to mention a lot of wasted taxpayer dollars.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-bourdeaux-introduce-bill-allow-unspent-covid-relief-dollars,"Johnson, Bourdeaux Introduce Bill to Allow Unspent COVID Relief Dollars for Infrastructure",2021-10-26,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and Carolyn Bourdeaux (D-GA-07) introduced the State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial Fiscal Recovery, Infrastructure, and Disaster Relief Flexibility Act, to make various infrastructure investments eligible for payment with unspent COVID-19 relief funds. The legislation recently passed the U.S. Senate unanimously.

Under the American Rescue Plan Act and the original CARES Act relief package, Congress provided some flexibility for how COVID funds could be spent, but most funds were not able to be used for infrastructure projects. This bill gives state and local officials additional flexibility and time to responsibly spend remaining COVID-19 relief dollars. South Dakota has more than $375 million in unused relief funds.

""State governments need flexibility, and this bill is good policy,"" said Johnson. ""The CARES Act restricted local governments from utilizing relief dollars on certain critical infrastructure projects and the American Rescue Plan prohibits states from returning unused dollars. These are two areas that need to be improved and this bill accomplishes that goal. I'm grateful to Senator Cornyn for his leadership on the Senate companion.""

""As we look towards the end of the pandemic, we must ensure our communities have a strong start on the path to recovery,"" said Bourdeaux. ""This legislation gives states and local governments the flexibility they need to use federally administered COVID-19 relief funding to meet their unique transportation and infrastructure needs. I urge the House to take up the Senate-passed legislation and give our local governments the flexibility they need to thrive.""

Additionally, the bill permits eligible governments to spend the greater of $10 million or 30% of their total fiscal relief funding for categories like the: National Highway Performance Program, Tribal Transportation Program, Surface Transportation Block Grant Program, and the Highway Safety Improvement Program.

This legislation is cosponsored by Reps. Steve Scalise (R-LA-01), Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28), Rick Allen (R-GA-12), Suzan DelBene (D-WA-01), David Rouzer (R-NC-07), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10), Randy K. Weber (R-TX-14), Jared Huffman (D-CA-02), Steven Palazzo (R-MS-04), Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA-02), Andy Barr (R-KY-06), Joseph Morelle (D-NY-25), Dan Meuser (R-PA-09), Albio Sires (D-NJ-08), Carlos A. Gimenez (R-FL-26), Antonio Delgado (D-NY-19), David B. McKinley, P.E. (R-WV-01), Kim Schrier, M.D. (D-WA-08), Peter Meijer (R-MI-03), Darren Soto (D-FL-09), Jerry Carl (R-AL-01), Chris Pappas (D-NH-01), Rick Crawford (R-AR-01), Betty McCollum (D-MN-04), William Timmons (R-SC-04), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05), Brad Wenstrup (R-OH-02), Derek Kilmer (D-WA-06), Don Young (R-AK), and Tom O'Halleran (D-AZ-01).

You can read the bill here or the one-pager here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=C3FB93B8-78AB-4292-B7FD-088EAE4A2699,Thune: South Dakotans See Right Through Democrats’ Budget Gimmicks,2021-10-26,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today called out Democrats for trying to disguise the price of their reckless tax-and-spending spree through convoluted budget gimmicks that are designed to fool the American people. Thune warned that Democrats’ massive government expansion and proposed tax hikes pose serious, long-term consequences for the economy and South Dakota families.

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, Democrats continue to negotiate with each other on their tax-and-spending spree.

“Democrats are currently working to lower the bill’s top-line number in an effort to meet some of the demands of the few moderate Democrats who have reservations about unchecked government spending.

“Now, Mr. President, you might think that lowering the top-line number would involve deciding what programs and spending to eliminate to bring the bill in at a lower cost.

“Well, not exactly.

“Yes, Democrats are reportedly eliminating some spending.

“But the word is that under pressure from progressives – who are dead-set against curtailing their plans for expanding government – Democrats are planning to keep a lot of their most expensive proposals but simply shorten the funding window to make the cost of these programs seem lower.

“Take Democrats’ fantastically expensive child allowance.

“Democrats have every intention of turning their child allowance into a permanent government welfare program.

“But in order to bring the top-line number for their spending bill down, the word is that Democrats are now planning to officially extend the allowance for just one year.

“This is in fact a budget gimmick on top of a budget gimmick, as Democrats were already attempting to disguise the true cost of the child allowance by officially extending it for just four of the 10 years in the bill’s 10-year budget window.

“They were never, of course, planning to eliminate the child allowance after four years.

“And they’re certainly not planning to eliminate it now after one year.

“But by officially extending it for just a year in their tax-and-spending spree, they can manage to make the program look as if it will cost hundreds of billions of dollars less than it will actually cost.

“And they’re apparently repeating this strategy with a number of their other spending measures.

“That paid leave program?

“Apparently the White House has proposed a smaller version that would – supposedly – ‘expire’ after three or four years.

“Those child care subsidies?

“Apparently those may also now ostensibly ‘expire.’

“The Obamacare subsidies Democrats want to extend permanently?

“Once again, it sounds like they’re going to try shrinking the apparent cost with a short-term extension.

“But again, let’s be very clear here.

“These short-term extensions and short-term programs are nothing more than a budget gimmick to disguise the true cost of Democrats’ plan.

“There isn’t one program that I have named that Democrats don’t fully intend to make permanent.

“Don’t believe me?

“Just ask the Congressional Progressive Caucus, which outlined the strategy Democrats are currently adopting in a letter to Speaker Pelosi.

“‘If given a choice between legislating narrowly or broadly,’ the caucus wrote, ‘we strongly encourage you to choose the latter, and make robust investments over a shorter window. … This will help make the case for our party’s ability to govern, and establish a track record of success that will pave the way for a long-term extension of benefits.’

“So the plan, Mr. President, is to make these programs permanent, and permanently – and massively – expand the size of government.

“Democrats hope to get Americans hooked on the government benefits they’re offering while hiding the true cost of those benefits from the American people until it’s too late.

“Frankly, Mr. President, it’s not a bad strategy if your aim is to permanently expand the size of government.

“Because the truth is, it’s pretty hard to eradicate even the most inefficient and ineffective federal program once it’s been put in place.

“As Ronald Reagan used to say, ‘The nearest thing to eternal life that we'll ever see on this earth is a government program.’

“And that, of course, is what Democrats are counting on.

“They believe that once they put these programs in place, no one from either party will be able to get rid of them.

“What is less clear is how Democrats believe these programs are going to be funded in the long term – if they’ve given any thought to the issue at all.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if they haven’t.

“Mr. President, it’s important to note that the short-term programs and program extensions in Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree will be paid for by 10 years of taxes.

“That’s right.

“It will take 10 years of taxes – and other revenue-raising measures – to pay for programs that are scheduled to last as little as one year.

“So what happens when Democrats want to extend that child allowance again next year, or extend those child-care subsidies for the long term?

“Well, that’s a good question – and one that I would love to hear Democrats answer.

“Are Democrats going to trot out more tax hikes to pay for extending the child allowance, or making the child-care subsidies permanent?

“Or are they going to just suggest that we add hundreds of billions – and eventually trillions – to our already dangerously large national debt?

“And if they opt for tax hikes, just who is going to be facing those tax hikes?

“Democrats are eventually going to run out of money from millionaires and billionaires.

“And then they’re going to start coming after the wallets of the middle class.

“And of course, Mr. President, when I say that the programs in Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree will be paid for with 10 years of taxes, I mean that Democrats are claiming that those programs will be paid for.

“Because it’s by no means clear that Democrats’ tax hikes and revenue-raising measures will actually result in the revenue they’re claiming.

“Democrats, for example, are claiming that their proposal to increase IRS enforcement measures – including a new requirement that would allow the IRS to look into the details of Americans’ spending – will allow them to collect $700 billion in revenue.

“But the Congressional Budget Office has not confirmed that estimate, and there’s substantial reason to doubt that Democrats will be able to collect anywhere close to that amount.

“And, Mr. President, even if Democrats do manage to rake in every dollar they’re claiming, the tax hikes and revenue-raisers they’re proposing would have long-term costs beyond the dollar amount of the tax hikes.

“More than one of Democrats’ tax proposals would have a chilling effect on investment and economic growth – which would mean a less vibrant economy with fewer jobs and opportunities for American workers.

“And the IRS proposal I mentioned could put the details of Americans’ ordinary bank activity into the hands of the IRS – an agency that we have seen repeatedly mishandle the taxpayer data it already has, as recently as earlier this year.

“Mr. President, Democrats may be able to come up with a smaller top-line number by hiding the true cost of the government programs they’re contemplating.

“But their buy-now/pay-later (or never) approach to government spending is going to have serious consequences for our economy, and for the American people.

“Unfortunately, by the time the full costs of Democrats’ massive government expansion are felt, it may be too late to do much about it.

“That, apparently, is what Democrats are counting on.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=D195432B-7090-456A-A094-7688C317205B,"Thune, Farm-State Colleagues Renew Request to Advocate for Commonsense Biofuel Policy",2021-10-26,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), a longtime member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, today led several of his colleagues in requesting a meeting with President Biden and representatives of his cabinet to discuss the Renewable Fuel Standard and promote biofuels as a key solution for America’s energy and climate agenda. In July, Thune led a similar effort to discuss this important issue with the administration, but President Biden ignored it without reason.

“Mr. President, biofuels are a readily available energy solution that deserve full consideration—not only for helping to stem the recent increase in fuel prices, which has subsequently accelerated inflation—but to serve as a foundational source of transportation emission reductions as part of your energy and environmental agenda,” wrote the senators. “We call on your administration to utilize the full capacity of American agriculture to deliver on both fronts, and we reiterate our request to discuss these matters with you in greater detail.”

Joining Thune in signing the letter were Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ben Sasse (R-Neb.), and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.).

Thune, an ardent supporter of higher ethanol blends like E15 fuel, has introduced bipartisan legislation to fully recognize the greenhouse gas reductions achieved by modern biofuels and a bill to approve advanced renewable fuel technologies and further lower biofuel emissions, policies he has also urged President Biden to adopt.

Full text of the letter below:

The Honorable Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

The President

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20500

Dear President Biden:

We write to reiterate our July request to meet with you, members of your Cabinet, and our Democratic colleagues to discuss the tremendous opportunity that biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel may contribute to your administration’s energy, environmental, and transportation agenda. Now, as rising energy prices stoke consumer fears of more resolute, long-term inflation, our request takes on new urgency.

Like you, we want all Americans to have access to affordable and reliable sources of energy, including transportation and winter heating fuel. This requires an all-the-above energy strategy that equally leverages responsible resource development and innovation. American biofuels represent both, and as we outlined in our previous letter, they hold the proven ability to provide consumers broad choices for cleaner and more affordable energy. These contributions would expand with timely action by your administration.

We have seen reports that your administration has consulted with representatives of the oil and gas industry to address mounting energy concerns. We do not write to discourage the expansion of domestic oil and gas extraction, including on federal lands. Rather, we encourage the development of these national resources that drove America’s recent energy dominance, propelled economic growth, and insulated consumers from the bullying of international oil cartels. However, we strongly caution against attacks that misconstrue the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) as the source of America’s rising energy prices or seek to exploit global influences to undermine the American biofuels industry.

Higher blends of biofuels like E15 provide consumers with a lower-cost, greener option at the fuel pump. As we wrote, ethanol has 46 percent lower lifecycle emissions than conventional gasoline, with increasingly efficient agriculture and advancements in fuel technology striving to achieve a 70 percent reduction by 2030 and a net-zero fuel in the coming decades. Additionally, higher blends of ethanol will expand consumer choice and lessen the volume of conventional fuel needed for each vehicle, easing the ongoing supply constraint while also generating more—and thus reduce the price of—RINs, the RFS compliance credits.

In reality, the oil industry seeks to protect its market share at the pump, highlighting how expanding consumer choice for higher blends of ethanol will lessen the volume of conventional fuel needed for each vehicle and thus ease the ongoing supply constraint.

In our letter, we outlined numerous steps your administration can take to advance its low-carbon agenda with the assistance of renewable fuels. Most pressing is the need for the administration to set robust renewable volume obligations, which will help restore the integrity of the RFS in accordance with Congressional intent, and to not undercut the blending targets with subsequent small refinery exemptions. Similarly, the administration must not backtrack on previous blending targets, which by statute are already responsive to fluctuations in fuel consumption. Additionally, the administration should take immediate action to promote biofuels in domestic and foreign markets, beginning with scoring and comparing all energy sources fairly with updated modeling, such as Argonne National Laboratory’s Greenhouse gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy use in Transportation (GREET) Model, and approving long-stalled registrations for advanced, cleaner fuels, like those derived from corn kernel fiber. Lastly, the administration should seek to reestablish the year-round sale of E15 and support infrastructure investments to help fuel retailers provide this cleaner, more affordable fuel option for American drivers. E15, which is commonly marketed as Unleaded 88, can save consumers an average of 5 to 10 cents per gallon. Taking swift action will not only help alleviate the present energy situation, but failure to do so will leave meaningful carbon emission reductions on the table.

The benefits of expanded biofuel use do not stop at the water’s edge, and we are encouraged to see countries like India recognize the potential that higher blends of ethanol hold to meet energy needs and environmental goals. India has set a target of 10 percent ethanol blending by 2022 and increasing to a rate of 20 percent ethanol by 2025. This not only suggests a promising export market for American farmers and biofuel producers, but underscores how biofuels can be leveraged immediately to reduce transportation emissions without overhauling the entire electric grid. We urge your administration to feature biofuels as part of its international outreach on energy, environment, and trade, including the upcoming Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow, Scotland.

Mr. President, biofuels are a readily available energy solution that deserve full consideration—not only for helping to stem the recent increase in fuel prices, which has subsequently accelerated inflation—but to serve as a foundational source of transportation emission reductions as part of your energy and environmental agenda. We call on your administration to utilize the full capacity of American agriculture to deliver on both fronts, and we reiterate our request to discuss these matters with you in greater detail.

Sincerely,

cc:

The Honorable Tom Vilsack, Secretary of Agriculture

The Honorable Pete Buttigieg, Secretary of Transportation

The Honorable Jennifer Granholm, Secretary of Energy

The Honorable Michael Regan, Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency

The Honorable Katherine Tai, United States Trade Representative

The Honorable John Kerry, Special Presidential Envoy for Climate",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=F7A8C6F5-BF68-4D98-8653-DD2559765088,"Thune Questions TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube Representatives, Pushes for Increased Transparency",2021-10-26,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, today questioned representatives from TikTok, Snap Inc., and YouTube during a subcommittee hearing titled, “Protecting Kids Online: Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube.” Thune expressed deep concern about social media platforms’ use of algorithms and their ability to manipulate users’ experience while online.

Thune recently questioned Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen about the dangers of big tech’s use of algorithms. Earlier this year, Thune reintroduced two bipartisan bills, the Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency (PACT) Act and the Filter Bubble Transparency Act, that would help increase online transparency and accountability.

Thune’s opening remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Thank you Chairman Blumenthal and Ranking Member Blackburn for holding today’s hearing.

“While social media offers a lot of benefits and opportunities, I have concerns about the lack of transparency online and limited accountability of big tech companies. One of the major problems with social media that has been increasingly concerning is social media platforms’ use of algorithms to shape and manipulate users’ experience resulting in individuals being trapped in the “filter bubble.” The filter bubble can be particularly troubling for younger users. For example, a recent Wall Street Journal article described in detail how TikTok’s algorithm serves up sex and drug videos to minors.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rounds-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-block-democrats-irs-snooping-proposal,"Rounds, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Block Democrats’ IRS Snooping Proposal",2021-10-22,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), member of the Senate Banking Committee, Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and colleagues introduced the Prohibiting IRS Financial Surveillance Act to prevent the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) from implementing Democrats’ plan to give the agency access to transaction information of virtually every American.

“I have heard from more than 5,000 South Dakotans who are opposed to the proposed IRS expansion and intrusive authority to monitor everyday Americans’ bank accounts,” said Rounds. “I strongly oppose this attempt to invade the financial privacy rights of millions of Americans. Our bill prohibits the IRS from moving forward with this unprecedented access to taxpayer bank accounts. We must protect taxpayers from this power grab by the Biden administration.”

In addition to Rounds, Scott’s bill is cosponsored by the ranking members of the Senate finance and banking committees, Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), as well as Senators Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), John Thune (R-S.D.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Richard Burr (R-N.C.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ben Sasse (R-Neb.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Rob Portman (R-Ohio).

Background

President Biden, Treasury Secretary Yellen, and the IRS are seeking access to every working American’s financial information by requiring financial institutions to report annualized deposit and withdrawal amounts.

The “Prohibiting IRS Financial Surveillance Act” would prohibit the Biden administration’s proposed violation of privacy and federal government overreach.

Under the Biden reporting regime a family whose monthly expenses total just $833 would still be required to be reported to the IRS.

Nearly every American, even those below the poverty line, would be subject to this proposed reporting regime.

The Joint Committee on Taxation has analyzed the proposal and found that it is likely to impact taxpayers in every income bracket, including those making less than $50,000.

Steven Rosenthal at the left-leaning Tax Policy Center concluded the bank reporting requirement proposal would, “in fact, bury the agency in a sea of unproductive information.”

Click here to read the bill.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rounds-heinrich-introduce-indian-buffalo-management-act-,"Rounds, Heinrich Introduce Indian Buffalo Management Act",2021-10-22,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), member of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, and Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) introduced the bipartisan Indian Buffalo Management Act, legislation to create a permanent buffalo program at the U.S. Department of the Interior and help promote and develop tribal capacity to manage buffalo.

“The American buffalo is a treasured animal and resource for Native American communities across the United States,” said Rounds. “The Indian Buffalo Management Act gives tribes the capacity to manage their buffalo populations, utilize the many benefits from buffalo and provide input into federal buffalo management policy. I am committed to helping tribes in South Dakota restore their historical and cultural ties to buffalo herds and make certain that this is a meaningful step for Native American communities.”

“The American buffalo, or bison, is central to the culture and history of many of our tribal nations, including a number in New Mexico,” said Heinrich. “That’s why I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Senator Rounds to provide Tribal communities with access to additional resources and opportunities to manage these revered animals and restore their habitat.”

“The Indian Buffalo Management Act will restore the cultural, historical, spiritual and traditional connection between buffalo and tribal people; create employment and economic opportunities; and provide the Tribe with access to traditional, healthy and self-sustaining food source,” said Clyde Estes, Chairman of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. “We thank Senator Rounds for working with us and listening to our request of introducing this important legislation in the United States Senate.”

“Our goal has always been to expand our buffalo herd to produce one large enough to supplement our Food Distribution Program, to assist our elders when they need buffalo meats or parts for a ceremony and to work with our local schools to aid in the educational benefits of buffalo restoration,” said Mike Faith, Chairman of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and Vice Chairman of the InterTribal Buffalo Council. “We greatly appreciate the leadership of Senator Rounds and his colleagues in introducing this legislation that will help us reach those goals. As the Lakota Holy Man, John Fire Lame Deer once said, ‘The Buffalo gave us everything we needed.’ This legislation is therefore a very positive development.”

“Senators Rounds, Heinrich and the others who have stepped up to introduce this bill are to be commended,” said Ervin Carlson, President of the InterTribal Buffalo Council headquartered in Rapid City. “It is simply impossible to overstate both the importance of the buffalo to the Indian people and the damage that was done when the buffalo were nearly wiped out. By helping tribes reestablish buffalo herds on our reservation lands, the Congress will help us reconnect with a keystone of our historic culture as well as create jobs and an important source of protein that our people truly need.”

“For Indigenous peoples, the restoration of buffalo is as much about healing our people and reviving our culture as it is about healing the land,” said Jason Baldes, board member of the InterTribal Buffalo Council and Tribal buffalo program manager for the National Wildlife Federation. “The Indian Buffalo Management Act not only expands capacity and reaffirms Tribal sovereignty but ensures we can continue working with Tribal, federal and conservation partners to establish prolific populations of buffalo across the country.”

Maria Sam, the herd manager for the Picuris Pueblo of New Mexico said, “Recently, I was able to discuss the status of our buffalo herd with Senator Heinrich and I was so appreciative to hear his enthusiasm for assisting our Pueblo and others to grow our herds and provide an important cultural and dietary resource for our people and others throughout New Mexico. His interest in this legislation has been longstanding and we look forward to this basic but important bill becoming law.”

Phillip Perez, Governor of the Pueblo of Nambe said, “We are delighted that Senators Heinrich and Lujan will be joining Senator Rounds and others in introducing this legislation. Our buffalo herd is very small as is the land we have been able to set aside for it. When implemented, this bill could allow us to allocate more land so our buffalo could really stretch their legs and we could grow the herd. Being able to distribute more buffalo meat to our people would be wonderful.”

Cosponsors of the bill include Senators Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.).

The Indian Buffalo Management Act provides secure, consistent funding for tribes and tribal organizations that have an established buffalo herd and management program, as well as provides the opportunity to expand the program to other interested tribes. The American buffalo is also referred to as bison.

Rounds’ bill creates a permanent buffalo restoration and management program within the Department of Interior to:

Promote and develop the capacity of tribes and tribal organizations to manage buffalo and buffalo habitat.

Protect and enhance buffalo herds for the maximum benefit of tribes.

Include tribes in the Interior Department’s decision-making regrading buffalo.

The Indian Buffalo Management Act was introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Don Young (R-Alaska) earlier this year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/weekly-column/jim-soyer-the-heart-of-a-servant,Jim Soyer: The Heart of a Servant,2021-10-22,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"I lost a good friend last week. Lonnie lost her husband of 37 years and her soulmate. The state of South Dakota lost a legendary public servant.

Jim Soyer always listed truck driver, teacher and newspaperman first on his biography. But, he was also an extremely accomplished, humble public servant – having served as chief of staff and press secretary to the likes of former Governor Bill Janklow and former governor of Wisconsin and U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson. I worked with Jim while I served in the state legislature, he was my legislative director in the governor’s office and, up until the time of his death, he was a member of my U.S. Senate staff.

Jim believed that those private sector jobs held more weight than his public service – because those were jobs “normal people” held - it’s what paid the bills. He would always talk about the “producers” and the “consumers”. Speaking from a taxpayer perspective, he often preached that producers paid the government’s bills (taxes) and consumers spent the money. The infamous “bleeders and spenders” list was a consolidated list that Jim kept and managed every legislative session. To the chagrin of many legislators, lobbyists and special interests – the “bleeders and spenders” list was Jim’s way of tracking all of the taxpayer money that people were trying to spend. Over the years, many of those proposals met their demise – because Jim was looking out for the taxpayer. Jim would say: “normal people” don’t have lobbyists so “they need us.”

While Jim would never volunteer it, the last time I counted, he had either written or had significant input in writing 19 State of the State addresses for governors in two different states. It’s possible Jim wrote more press releases and messages for governors than any other person in the history of our country.

A man, who by all accounts, rose to the highest ranks of state government – believed in the goodness of people and the greatness of our state. He could have been anything and yet he chose to serve others. Jim never wanted the spotlight, yet his impact on our state was as great as any of the political figures he served under. He loved the work and never had an agenda except making our state better.

In 2005, Northern State University recognized Jim as one of their distinguished alumni. Of course, Jim first mentioned his work as an educator before mention came of his public service. You see, Jim Soyer was at the table when Citibank moved to South Dakota, property taxes were cut, wiring the schools in South Dakota took place and when the state started the Internet Crimes Against Children program. But one of the items I appreciated the most was his ability to tell a story. It was that skill that helped to convince the people of South Dakota to invest in an old goldmine and convert it into the world-class Sanford Underground Laboratory at Homestake. He shared the powerful message of opportunity for young people to participate in this technology or they would leave our state. Jim was at the heart of my legislative team while I was working as governor. Any success we had could be largely attributed to Jim.

Jim’s humility was on full display in 2005. Despite his many professional accomplishments – he told the story of how he believed his role was to “gather, organize, analyze and boil down accurate information so his superiors can make the most well informed decision.”

Frankly, Jim has been with me in public service for the last 30 years. With a lump in my throat, I sadly reflect that this is the first column I’ve ever written without his input.

I’ll miss my friend, Jim Soyer.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-meets-south-dakota-teachers-year,Johnson Meets with South Dakota Teachers of the Year,2021-10-21,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Johnson met with Amanda Harris of Harrisburg and Amanda Hargreaves of Mitchell, the 2020 and 2021 South Dakota Teachers of the Year. Harris and Hargreaves are visiting Washington for the Council of Chief State School Officers National Teacher of the Year Program D.C. Advocacy Day. During their meeting with Johnson they discussed education policy issues facing South Dakota's teachers.

""Amanda Harris and Amanda Hargreaves are examples of what a teacher should be,"" said Johnson. ""They are caring, kind, driven, and put their students first. I was grateful for the chance to sit down with them in Washington today – they represent our state well and gave me great hope for the future of education in South Dakota.""

Harris, the 2020 South Dakota Teacher of the Year, is a fourth-grade teacher at Endeavor Elementary in Harrisburg, South Dakota. She ran for teacher of the year on a platform of looking for the good in students and in our state. She has started several afterschool programs in the Harrisburg School District and is a previous recipient of the SDEA/NEA Educational Innovation Grant. You can read more about her here.

Hargreaves, the 2021 South Dakota Teacher of the Year, is a teacher at Mitchell Middle School. She previously taught at Longfellow Elementary in Mitchell. She helped develop an anti-bullying program in her time at Longfellow and has stepped up to serve on the Principal's Cabinet Leadership Team at Mitchell Middle School. You can read more about her here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnsons-cattle-contract-library-passes-agriculture-committee-unanimously,Johnson’s Cattle Contract Library Passes Agriculture Committee Unanimously,2021-10-21,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House Agriculture Committee unanimously passed the bipartisan Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021 (H.R. 5609). The bill was introduced by Ranking Member of the Livestock & Foreign Agriculture Subcommittee Dusty Johnson (R-S.D) and is the result of nearly a year of work with producers and industry leaders following the release of the July 2020 Boxed Beef & Fed Cattle Price Spread Investigation Report. The investigation recommended the creation of a cattle contract library.

This is the first cattle market transparency bill to pass out of the Democrat-led Agriculture Committee since the July 2020 report was released. The Cattle Contact Library Act is supported by the American Farm Bureau Federation, National Cattlemen's Beef Association, U.S. Cattlemen's Association, National Farmers Union, Livestock Marketing Association, South Dakota Cattlemen's Association, South Dakota Farm Bureau, and the South Dakota Farmers Union.

Following the Committee passage of the bill, Representative Johnson issued the following statement:

""Producers want action – they want more transparency in the cattle market – this bill is a step in the right direction,"" said Johnson. ""The Cattle Contract Library Act ushers in greater transparency and competition to an industry that desperately needs it. I'm grateful to the farmers & ranchers for their critical input to come to a consensus and I'm glad the committee answered this request. I'm going to fight like hell to get this bill passed out of the House.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=0B85B519-2B91-41F1-BE73-4D6728196250,Thune Joins Colleagues in Introducing Legislation to Establish a National 6G Strategy,2021-10-21,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Chuck Schumer (D- N.Y.) this week introduced a bipartisan bill to support United States competitiveness in innovation and technology. The legislation would establish a national strategy to implement future telecom networks, including sixth generation (6G), based on recommendations from an expert council.

“Ensuring the United States remains a leader in next-generation communications has long been a priority of mine,” said Thune. “This bill would allow the United States to continue competing on the global stage, and it would help prepare the United States to lead the way in deploying next-generation technology, including 6G. I’ll continue to work on bipartisan solutions that will increase innovation and bolster the private sector’s ability to compete in this emerging space.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=2BEA3FFC-D0D9-4536-A9EA-54A3CAC21423,Thune: Democrats’ Radical Spending Bill Places Job-Based Health Care Coverage at Risk,2021-10-21,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) this week participated in a Senate Finance Committee hearing on the current and future role of federal programs in health insurance coverage in America. Thune discussed the long-term consequences of Democrats’ radical spending package and how it could jeopardize millions of Americans’ job-based health care coverage. Thune also criticized the lack of Hyde Amendment protections on expanded Affordable Care Act subsidies. Without these protections, federal funds could be used for taxpayer-financed abortion services.

Thune’s opening remarks below:

“I think this looks like maybe the only hearing we’re likely to have an opportunity where this committee can engage in a public forum to discuss what are the sweeping policy changes and massive expansion of government that Democrats have embarked upon.

“I think it should be noted that even for bills that resulted in a partisan outcome, this committee has always followed regular order, and debated and voted on amendments.

“And I think it’s a shame that after promises of bipartisanship and cooperation, even here today, we are facing policies that are fundamentally changing the tax code, affecting the economy, and the way consumers access health coverage on a completely partisan basis.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=2C095667-A671-4D88-A92B-49B4C4BA8A3B,Thune: The Time has Come to Hold Big Tech Accountable,2021-10-21,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, today urged Congress to enact meaningful, bipartisan legislation to hold big tech companies accountable. Thune discussed the secret and potentially harmful algorithms big tech uses to manipulate a user’s experience. Thune noted that his two bipartisan bills, the Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency (PACT) Act and the Filter Bubble Transparency Act, would help increase online transparency and accountability for consumers of all ages.

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, social media has become a big part of a lot of Americans’ lives.

“TikTok. Twitter. Facebook. YouTube. Instagram.

“People turn to social media for connection.

“For entertainment.

“To stay on top of the news.

“For pictures of the grandkids.

“For workout routines and new recipes.

“Social media offers a lot of benefits and opportunities.

“But it’s becoming ever more clear that social media has a darker side as well.

“Social media use can have a negative effect on mental health.

“It can foster negative and divisive engagement and serve as an outlet for illegal activity, from child pornography to human trafficking.

“And it can have a particularly detrimental effect on the still-developing psyches of teenagers.

“The Wall Street Journal recently published a series of disturbing reports based on the information a Facebook whistleblower provided that highlighted everything from the use of Facebook for criminal activity in developing countries, to the company’s own research showing the negative impact Instagram can have on teenage girls.

“And two weeks ago, the Senate Commerce Committee held a hearing where we heard firsthand from the Facebook whistleblower about the concerns that led her to come forward.

“Next week, the Commerce Committee will be holding a hearing with witnesses from Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube examining how these companies treat younger users.

“A recent Wall Street Journal investigation into TikTok revealed how easy it is for younger users to be bombarded with wildly inappropriate content, from videos promoting drug use to disturbing sexual content.

“Mr. President, one major problem with social media that came through once again in the recent Commerce hearing and in the Wall Street Journal’s recent revelations is social media platforms’ use of algorithms to shape users’ experience.

“Gone are the days when you logged into Facebook and just consumed content that had been posted chronologically since your previous log-in.

“Now Facebook – and other social media platforms – use algorithms to shape your newsfeed and suggestions for additional content, emphasizing posts the platforms think you’ll be interested in and deemphasizing other posts.

“Now, algorithms can be useful, of course.

“If you’re looking for YouTube videos on how to build a bookshelf, you’ll probably appreciate it if YouTube suggests additional videos on how to build a bookshelf … rather than videos on how to roast a turkey or sink the perfect jump shot.

“But algorithms have a problematic aspect as well.

“For starters, many people aren’t aware of just how much their experience on these platforms is being manipulated, and the negative emotional effects that that manipulation can have.

“Disclosure on these platforms can be confusing or nonexistent, so individuals can be largely unaware that the immense amount of personal data social media platforms collect is being used to decide what posts they’re being shown, what ads they’re being offered, and more.

“Individuals end up trapped in what has been termed the ‘filter bubble’ – their own world of filtered search results and tailored content.

“This can lead to everything from political polarization – as users are presented with a narrow, one-sided view of current affairs – to addictive behavior, as the platform doubles down on troubling content users have shown an interest in.

“As the Wall Street Journal’s recent articles on Facebook and TikTok demonstrate, the filter bubble can be particularly troubling in the case of younger social media users, who may watch an inappropriate video and soon find that their feed is filled with similar material.

“In many ways, the filter bubble can end up shaping users’ choices and behavior.

“Mr. President, as a former Commerce Committee chairman and current ranking member of the Commerce Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, I’ve been following these issues for a while and have developed two bipartisan bills – the Filter Bubble Transparency Act and the PACT Act – that I think would go a long way toward addressing the problems posed by social media platforms.

“My Filter Bubble Transparency Act, which is cosponsored by Senators Blumenthal and Blackburn, among others, would allow social media users to opt out of the ‘filter bubble.’

“In other words, it would allow them to opt out of the filtered experience tailored for them by opaque algorithms and instead see an unfiltered social media feed or search results that aren’t based on the vast amount of information the platform has on them.

“Facebook, for example, would be required to provide a clear notification to users that their content is being shaped by algorithms.

“And then Facebook would be required to provide users with an easily accessible option to see a chronological newsfeed, instead of a newsfeed powered by opaque algorithms emphasizing the posts Facebook wants you to see.

“My Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency Act – the PACT Act – which I introduced with Senator Schatz, would also increase social media transparency.

“It would require sites to provide an easily digestible disclosure of their content moderation practices for users.

“And it would address censorship concerns by requiring sites to explain their decision to remove material to consumers.

“Until relatively recently, sites like Facebook and Twitter would remove a user’s post without explanation and without an appeals process.

“And even as platforms start to shape up their act with regard to transparency and due process, it’s still hard for users to get good information about how content is moderated.

“Under the PACT Act, if a site chooses to remove your post, it has to tell you why it decided to remove your post and explain how your post violated the site’s terms of use.

“And then it has to provide a way for you to appeal that decision.

“The PACT Act would also explore the viability of a federal program for Big Tech employees to blow the whistle on wrongdoing inside the companies where they work.

“We’ve learned a lot from Frances Haugen, the Facebook whistleblower who spoke to the Commerce Committee two weeks ago.

“And I believe that we should encourage employees in the tech sector to speak up about questionable practices of Big Tech companies so that we can, among other things, ensure Americans are fully aware of how social media platforms are making use of artificial intelligence and individuals’ personal data to keep them hooked on their platforms.

“Mr. President, as I said earlier, social media offers a lot of benefits.

“But with the ever-increasing role it plays in Americans’ lives, it is essential that consumers understand exactly how social media platforms are using their information and shaping the news they see and the content they interact with.

“And I am hopeful that the recent troubling revelations about Facebook and TikTok published by the Wall Street Journal will create an impetus for bipartisan action on social media transparency.

“I’m grateful to have bipartisan cosponsors for the Filter Bubble Transparency Act and the PACT Act.

“And I look forward to working with my cosponsors to get these bills passed in the near future.

“Big Tech has operated in the dark for too long.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=449BB5DA-9017-4224-B06B-AF20CC1497C4,Thune Joins Colleagues in Introducing Legislation to Put Patients Over Paperwork,2021-10-21,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kans.), and Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.) yesterday introduced the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act, bipartisan legislation that would improve timely access to quality care for seniors under Medicare Advantage (MA). Specifically, the bill would modernize the way MA plans and health care providers use prior authorization. This legislation addresses the top administrative issue for physicians, and it will make the delivery of health care more patient- and doctor-friendly.

“I’m proud to support this bipartisan legislation that makes health care more efficient and patient-centered,” said Thune. “By implementing electronic prior authorization, providers are able to reduce delays and help seniors in South Dakota get quicker access to the treatment and care they need.”

The Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act has gained support from more than 320 national and state organizations representing patients, health care providers, medical device manufacturers, and health IT companies across the country.

“The bill is a carefully crafted, bipartisan work product that reflects significant input from all direct stakeholders,” said Katie Orrico, senior vice president for health policy and advocacy at the American Association of Neurological Surgeons/Congress of Neurological Surgeons and leader of the Regulatory Relief Coalition. “The congressional team behind this bill focused on transparency, oversight, and modernization of the Medicare Advantage program to benefit patients and the providers and health plans who serve them. We eagerly await congressional action. The bill is ready for the finish line.”

“Physicians know the best treatment for our patients but they’re often not the ones making the final decision due to artificial barriers constructed by insurance companies,” said Gerald E. Harmon, president of the American Medical Association. “The time delays and administrative burdens associated with prior authorization continue to undermine our patients’ health. Nearly a third of physician respondents to a 2020 AMA survey reported that prior authorization led to a serious adverse event — such as hospitalization, medical intervention to prevent permanent impairment, or even disability or death — for a patient in their care. The AMA thanks Senators Marshall, Sinema, and Thune for putting patients first by introducing the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act, which would simplify and streamline the prior authorization processes in Medicare Advantage.”

“Hospitals and health systems strongly support the Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act because physicians, nurses and other providers of care should be able to spend their time on patients, not burdensome paperwork,” said Stacey Hughes, executive vice president at the American Hospital Association. “Efforts to streamline and standardize prior authorization are long overdue. Used appropriately, prior authorization can be a helpful tool for ensuring patients receive the right treatment, but too often the process results in delayed care, clinician burnout and unnecessary waste in the health care system. The AHA is eager to continue to work with Senators Marshall, Sinema and Thune to make improvements to the prior authorization process that protect patients.”

Prior authorization is a tool used by health plans to reduce spending from improper payments and unnecessary care by requiring physicians and other health care providers to get pre-approval for medical services. The current system of unconfirmed faxes of a patient’s medical information or phone calls by clinicians takes precious time away from delivering quality and timely care. Prior authorization continues to be the top administrative burden identified by health care providers, and nearly four out of five MA enrollees are subject to unnecessary delays. In recent years, the Office of the Inspector General at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services raised concerns after an audit revealed that MA plans ultimately approved 75 percent of requests that were originally denied.

Health plans, health care providers, and patients agree that the prior authorization process must be improved to better serve patients and reduce unnecessary administrative burdens for clinicians. In fact, leading health care organizations released a consensus statement to address some of the most pressing concerns associated with prior authorization. Building on these principles, the bipartisan legislation would:

Establish an electronic prior authorization process that would streamline approvals and denials;

Establish national standards for clinical documents that would reduce administrative burdens on health care providers and MA plans;

Create a process for real-time decisions for certain items and services that are routinely approved;

Increase transparency that would improve communication channels and utilization between MA plans, health care providers, and patients;

Ensure appropriate care by encouraging MA plans to adopt policies that adhere to evidence-based guidelines; and

Require beneficiary protections that would ensure the electronic prior authorization serves seniors first.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-cattle-contract-library-gains-strong-support-industry-leaders-and-0,ICYMI: Cattle Contract Library Gains Strong Support from Industry Leaders and Cattle Country,2021-10-20,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – This week, Ranking Member of the Livestock & Foreign Agriculture Subcommittee Dusty Johnson (R-S.D) and Representative Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28) introduced the bipartisan Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021 (H.R. 5609) to provide more transparency in the market. Tomorrow, October 21, the House Agriculture Committee will host a markup on this legislation.

Industry leaders and Members of Congress representing cattle country issued statements in support of the Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021:

""For far too long, farmers and ranchers have operated under uncertainty in the beef markets, forced to accept rock bottom payments while the cost of beef goes up at the grocery store,"" said American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall. ""The Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021 would provide critical information regarding how cattle are contracted and sold. We appreciate Congressman Dusty Johnson for working to provide tools to America's farmers and ranchers as they ensure healthy, affordable beef is on dinner tables across the country.""

""Greater competition, price discovery, and transparency are desperately needed in cattle markets,"" said Rob Larew, President of National Farmers Union (NFU). ""NFU thanks Representative Johnson for introducing a bill that will direct USDA to establish a contract library for the cattle industry. This is an important tool that will help producers negotiate more favorable terms for their cattle. Instituting this new policy will be a helpful step in bringing greater fairness and competition to cattle markets.""

""The Livestock Marketing Association strongly supports the creation of a cattle contract library and appreciates the leadership of Representative Dusty Johnson in introducing this legislation,"" said LMA President Larry Schnell of Dickinson, N.D. ""This is a key way to add more information to the marketplace which will benefit producers of all sizes as they make their individual arrangements.""

""I'm proud to have cosponsored this bipartisan legislation to create a Cattle Contract Library within the USDA; this program would be a step in the right direct to improve the state of the fed cattle market,"" said Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-01). ""Iowa producers need increased price transparency and a cash mandate to operate in a truly competitive market. I am glad this bill will support continued work on major cattle market reforms.""

""Providing updated data is an important part of ensuring our ranchers have more tools at their disposal,"" said Congressman Kelly Armstrong (N.D. – At Large). ""I support Congressman Johnson's bill that improves transparency in the beef supply chain and gives more leverage to North Dakota's cattle producers.""

""As the cattle market recovers from several disruptions over the past few years, efforts such as the Cattle Contract Library Act can provide a much-needed tool in helping cattle producers make informed decisions and survive the volatility across today's industry,"" said Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04). ""I have met with several producers across Missouri discussing transparency and additional resources for our producers. This led to the introduction of my Optimizing the Cattle Market Act, that also includes similar tools. I thank Rep. Dusty Johnson for digging deeper into this important concept.""

""Last year, following the market strains caused by Tyson's Holcomb fire and the COVID-19 pandemic, USDA released an analysis of beef market conditions. Both anomalies highlighted the vulnerabilities that plague both the beef supply chain and the American food supply chain. Congress and stakeholders have long been discussing needed reforms to ensure fair competition and price discovery in agriculture markets- and more recently solutions to the various policy recommendations framed by USDA in their Boxed Beef and Fed Cattle Price Spread Investigation report. In order for ranchers to have a truly transparent, market-driven economy, cattlemen and women must be able to leverage marketing data while negotiating the price of cattle,"" said Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03). ""While USDA currently collects livestock and meat price data, producers are being left in the dark as to the contract terms being offered by packers as alternative marketing arrangements continue to grow in popularity. The Cattle Contract Library Act and the creation of a cattle contract library is an important step forward in working to cultivate a fair and transparent finished cattle marketing system. I thank my friend and colleague, Congressman Dusty Johnson, for his work addressing the disparities faced by America's hard-working producers, and I look forward to continuing to work with my fellow cattle ranchers as we ensure a fair beef market, benefitting both producers and consumers.""

""I am glad to introduce the bipartisan Cattle Contract Library Act today to provide support for Nebraska's cattle industry,"" said Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03). ""Establishing a library for cattle contracts, similar to the pork contract library already in effect, will enhance transparency and leverage opportunities for the small producers who are critical to feeding the nation.""

""The cattle contract library is a simple step towards more fairness, transparency, and healthy competition in the cattle market,"" said Congressman Tracey Mann (KS-01). ""It will benefit producers and packers alike, as it will help ensure that all market participants are both paying and receiving a fair price for their goods. The cattle contract library sends a clear message to ranchers, farmers, and livestock producers across this country that their voices are being heard in Washington, D.C.""

""I am proud to join this bipartisan group on this legislation to establish a cattle contract library,"" said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07). ""This will provide cattle producers in my district with important industry data and promote greater price discovery, helping ranchers better negotiate higher prices for their product.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-cattle-contract-library-gains-strong-support-industry-leaders-and-cattle,ICYMI: Cattle Contract Library Gains Strong Support from Industry Leaders and Cattle Country,2021-10-20,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – This week, Ranking Member of the Livestock & Foreign Agriculture Subcommittee Dusty Johnson (R-S.D) and Representative Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28) introduced the bipartisan Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021 (H.R. 5609) to provide more transparency in the market. Tomorrow, October 21, the House Agriculture Committee will host a markup on this legislation.

Industry leaders and Members of Congress representing cattle country issued statements in support of the Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021:

""For far too long, farmers and ranchers have operated under uncertainty in the beef markets, forced to accept rock bottom payments while the cost of beef goes up at the grocery store,"" said American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall. ""The Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021 would provide critical information regarding how cattle are contracted and sold. We appreciate Congressman Dusty Johnson for working to provide tools to America's farmers and ranchers as they ensure healthy, affordable beef is on dinner tables across the country.""

""Greater competition, price discovery, and transparency are desperately needed in cattle markets,"" said Rob Larew, President of National Farmers Union (NFU). ""NFU thanks Representative Johnson for introducing a bill that will direct USDA to establish a contract library for the cattle industry. This is an important tool that will help producers negotiate more favorable terms for their cattle. Instituting this new policy will be a helpful step in bringing greater fairness and competition to cattle markets.""

""The Livestock Marketing Association strongly supports the creation of a cattle contract library and appreciates the leadership of Representative Dusty Johnson in introducing this legislation,"" said LMA President Larry Schnell of Dickinson, N.D. ""This is a key way to add more information to the marketplace which will benefit producers of all sizes as they make their individual arrangements.""

""I'm proud to have cosponsored this bipartisan legislation to create a Cattle Contract Library within the USDA; this program would be a step in the right direct to improve the state of the fed cattle market,"" said Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-01). ""Iowa producers need increased price transparency and a cash mandate to operate in a truly competitive market. I am glad this bill will support continued work on major cattle market reforms.""

""Providing updated data is an important part of ensuring our ranchers have more tools at their disposal,"" said Congressman Kelly Armstrong (N.D. – At Large). ""I support Congressman Johnson's bill that improves transparency in the beef supply chain and gives more leverage to North Dakota's cattle producers.""

""As the cattle market recovers from several disruptions over the past few years, efforts such as the Cattle Contract Library Act can provide a much-needed tool in helping cattle producers make informed decisions and survive the volatility across today's industry,"" said Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04). ""I have met with several producers across Missouri discussing transparency and additional resources for our producers. This led to the introduction of my Optimizing the Cattle Market Act, that also includes similar tools. I thank Rep. Dusty Johnson for digging deeper into this important concept.""

""Last year, following the market strains caused by Tyson's Holcomb fire and the COVID-19 pandemic, USDA released an analysis of beef market conditions. Both anomalies highlighted the vulnerabilities that plague both the beef supply chain and the American food supply chain. Congress and stakeholders have long been discussing needed reforms to ensure fair competition and price discovery in agriculture markets- and more recently solutions to the various policy recommendations framed by USDA in their Boxed Beef and Fed Cattle Price Spread Investigation report. In order for ranchers to have a truly transparent, market-driven economy, cattlemen and women must be able to leverage marketing data while negotiating the price of cattle,"" said Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03). ""While USDA currently collects livestock and meat price data, producers are being left in the dark as to the contract terms being offered by packers as alternative marketing arrangements continue to grow in popularity. The Cattle Contract Library Act and the creation of a cattle contract library is an important step forward in working to cultivate a fair and transparent finished cattle marketing system. I thank my friend and colleague, Congressman Dusty Johnson, for his work addressing the disparities faced by America's hard-working producers, and I look forward to continuing to work with my fellow cattle ranchers as we ensure a fair beef market, benefitting both producers and consumers.""

""America's cattle producers have faced many challenges related to weather conditions, supply chain issues, and volatile market conditions over the past few years — and I have heard these concerns directly from Central Virginia's livestock producers. As the only Virginian on the House Agriculture Committee, I am proud to help introduce this much-needed legislation to establish a cattle contract library,"" said Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger (VA-07). ""By providing our cattle producers with the tools they need in negotiations, this legislation would deliver long overdue relief to ranchers and their families. Additionally, this bipartisan bill would increase transparency in cattle markets and make our beef supply chains stronger in the process. I want to thank Congressman Johnson and Congressman Cuellar for their leadership on this issue, and I look forward to moving this critical legislation forward.""

""I am glad to introduce the bipartisan Cattle Contract Library Act today to provide support for Nebraska's cattle industry,"" said Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03). ""Establishing a library for cattle contracts, similar to the pork contract library already in effect, will enhance transparency and leverage opportunities for the small producers who are critical to feeding the nation.""

""The cattle contract library is a simple step towards more fairness, transparency, and healthy competition in the cattle market,"" said Congressman Tracey Mann (KS-01). ""It will benefit producers and packers alike, as it will help ensure that all market participants are both paying and receiving a fair price for their goods. The cattle contract library sends a clear message to ranchers, farmers, and livestock producers across this country that their voices are being heard in Washington, D.C.""

""I am proud to join this bipartisan group on this legislation to establish a cattle contract library,"" said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07). ""This will provide cattle producers in my district with important industry data and promote greater price discovery, helping ranchers better negotiate higher prices for their product.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-leads-effort-provide-pricing-leverage-cattle-producers,Johnson Leads Effort to Provide Pricing Leverage to Cattle Producers,2021-10-20,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Ranking Member of the Livestock & Foreign Agriculture Subcommittee Dusty Johnson (R-S.D) and Representative Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28) introduced the bipartisan Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021 (H.R. 5609), which would create a library for cattle contracts within the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA's) Agriculture Marketing Service Department. Currently, cattlemen are unaware of contract terms being offered by packers, leading to a decline in leverage for smaller producers during price negotiations.

Currently, USDA maintains a pork contract library, and following significant volatility in the cattle market and the release of the July 2020 Boxed Beef & Fed Cattle Price Spread Investigation Report, the creation of a library was recommended by experts and stakeholders. In response to this investigation, Johnson introduced sweeping cattle reform legislation to provide more transparency in the market, including the creation of a contract library.

""Producers have been asking for increased transparency and leverage in the cattle market for years, the Cattle Contract Library Act will provide granular data in near real time, ensuring producers understand the value of marketing agreements,"" said Johnson. ""Data drives marketing decisions and a contract library will provide much-needed leverage for independent producers.""

""Throughout my time in Congress, I have worked hard to ensure the success of the agriculture industry—one that is a critical facet of our nation's economy. The bipartisan Cattle Contract Library Act will further this agenda through the creation of a contract library that will provide cost transparency in the cattle market,"" said Cuellar. ""We must support all of our cattle businesses, including our small producers, who are indispensable for our country's food supply chain. I thank Rep. Johnson for his leadership on this critical legislation for Texas farmers, ranchers, and the agriculture industry as a whole.""

Johnson has been a leader on cattle market reform since 2019 and has worked to secure a number of legislative priorities for producers. In July, USDA implemented two of Johnson's bills aimed at increasing capacity space for small producers and curbing steep overtime fees small processing facilities incurred during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

""After months of record-breaking drought and volatile markets, ranchers in South Dakota and across the country are struggling to get by. We need to act,"" said National Cattleman's Beef Association Vice President and South Dakota Rancher Todd Wilkinson. ""As we heard during the recent hearing in the House Agriculture Committee, the cattle contract library is a popular and necessary element of the broader push to bring relief to cattle producers. It would equip our producers with the data they need to make competitive marketing decisions and exert leverage in negotiations with the packers, and it would also serve as an oversight tool. NCBA thanks Congressman Johnson and Congressman Cuellar for their urgent efforts to stand up for ranchers and bring greater transparency to the beef supply chain.""

""The U.S. Cattlemen's Association would like to thank Rep. Dusty Johnson and his team for continuing to push forward with meaningful changes to the Livestock Mandatory Reporting (LMR) program that will increase transparency in the cattle marketplace,"" said U.S. Cattlemen's Association Vice President Justin Tupper. ""A cattle contract library is sorely needed, and this bill is one step closer to bringing that concept to fruition.""

""Market transparency is a critical component of price discovery in cattle marketing. As the industry has evolved, most sales are now taking place through alternative market agreements,"" said South Dakota Cattlemen's Association President Eric Jennings. ""We need a contract library to create transparency in those agreements to achieve better price discovery in the live cattle market. The South Dakota Cattlemen's Association has been advocating for a contract library and we applaud and thank Representative Johnson for putting forth the legislation to fill this need.""

""In meetings with ranchers and feeders across the state, there is agreement that we need cattle market transparency, including reporting details of all cattle marketing arrangements,"" said South Dakota Farm Bureau President Scott VanderWal. ""The Cattle Contract Library is common sense and I hope we can get it quickly moved out of committee and passed in the House.""

The Cattle Contract Library Act is cosponsored by Reps. Tracey Mann (R-KS-01), Frank Lucas (R-OK-03), Rick Allen (R-GA-12), Ashley Hinson (R-IA-01), Kelly Armstrong (N.D.-AL), Jason Smith (R-MO-08), Trent Kelly (R-MS-01), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN-07), Angie Craig (D-MN-02), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-02), Jim Hagedorn (R-MN-01), David Rouzer (R-NC-07), Vicky Hartzler (R-MO-04), Adrian Smith (R-NE-3), Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07), and Darren Soto (D-FL-09).

The Cattle Contract Library Act of 2021 is supported by the American Farm Bureau Federation, National, Cattlemen's Beef Association, U.S. Cattlemen's Association, National Farmers Union, Livestock Marketing Association, SD Cattlemen's Association, South Dakota Farm Bureau, and the South Dakota Farmers Union.

Read the full bill here and the one-pager here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=53653E40-F18B-45A1-BD5F-704BAD36DD2E,"Thune: Democrats Ignore Rising Inflation, South Dakota Families Pay the Price",2021-10-20,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today called out Democrats for blatantly ignoring the growing inflation crisis and noted the tone-deaf messaging coming out of the White House. Thune also highlighted the Biden administration’s failures in addressing multiple crises that are impacting families in South Dakota every day.

Thune’s remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, last week President Biden’s chief of staff retweeted a tweet from Harvard economist Jason Furman describing our current economic challenges – notably the growing inflation crisis and supply chain issues – as ‘high class problems.’

“‘High class problems.’

“I guess working Americans struggling to stretch their paychecks to cover increases in the price of everything from groceries to gas can comfort themselves with the knowledge that they’re experiencing ‘high class problems.’

“Mr. President, the White House chief of staff’s tone-deaf tweet was unfortunately pretty typical of a White House that seems eager to minimize – or disclaim responsibility for – most of the problems occurring on its watch, whether it’s the flood of illegal immigration across our southern border or the high prices Americans are currently facing.

“But as the White House chief of staff – and the president – should know, inflation has become a serious problem for working Americans.

“Inflation, of course, hits middle- and lower-income families hard.

“If you’re wealthy, price increases may be an annoyance, but they’re not likely to break your budget.

“If you’re living paycheck to paycheck, on the other hand, price increases may mean the difference between making it to the next paycheck or running out of money mid-month.

“Currently, Mr. President, inflation is costing a typical household $175 a month, according to Moody’s Analytics.

“That may not sound like much to a wealthy Democrat politician, but for an ordinary American family, it’s a lot of money.

“$175 a month may be the difference between whether or not parents can afford to get braces for their daughter.

“It may be the difference between going to visit family for Christmas, or staying home and not seeing them.

“It may be the difference between having money for the extras – family dinners at a restaurant, or Little League fees, or ballet lessons – or just being able to cover the bare necessities.

“And for families making less than the median U.S. income, $100 or more a month can be the difference between making it to the next paycheck, or running out of money.

“It can mean the difference between paying the heating bill, or going cold during the winter.

“Mr. President, Americans have seen increases in food prices.

“In the price of bacon.

“Of beef.

“Poultry.

“Pork.

“Peanut butter.

“Fruits and vegetables.

“Eggs.

“The list goes on.

“The price of children’s shoes is up.

“So is the price of furniture.

“And gas.

“And electricity.

“And rent.

“A recent AP article entitled ‘Winter heating bills set to jump as inflation hits home’ noted, and I quote, ‘the U.S. government said … it expects households to see their heating bills jump as much as 54% compared to last winter.’

“54 percent.

“Show me the working family that can easily absorb that increase.

“Mr. President, inflation happens when you have too many dollars chasing too few goods.

“And Democrats helped trigger our inflation situation earlier this year when they decided to pour a lot of unnecessary government money into the economy – despite being warned that their partisan $1.9 trillion spending bill could stoke inflation.

“Now, with inflation clearly becoming a long-term problem, Democrats are preparing to double down on the government spending with a massive $3.5 trillion tax-and-spending bill filled with priorities like $200 million for a park in Speaker Pelosi’s district – a park that already features luxury housing and a golf course – and billions of dollars for a Civilian Climate Corps to provide government jobs for climate activists.

“The massive government spending this bill would authorize would pretty much guarantee that our country would be left with an even more persistent and widespread inflation problem.

“And flooding the economy with government dollars isn’t even the only way the bill would contribute to inflation.

“The bill also contains big tax hikes on businesses, which are already raising prices thanks to the higher cost of shipping and materials – and the challenges of hiring an adequate workforce.

“Raising taxes on these businesses could result in even higher consumer prices, and/or reductions in the quality of the services provided to consumers.

“Mr. President, government revenue for fiscal year 2021 saw a huge increase, driven in large part by tax receipts from corporations and well-off Americans – yes, the same companies and individuals that Democrats like to accuse of not paying their fair share.

“But since Democrats’ appetite for government spending is apparently insatiable, record-high government revenues don’t look likely to stop them from passing their huge tax increases, and driving up prices for consumers even further.

“Mr. President, along with the flood of government spending Democrats passed in the spring, another major contributor to our inflation crisis has been supply chain bottlenecks.

“And the White House has largely failed to do anything to address the problem.

“The president finally took one step forward when he announced the other day that the port of Los Angeles will join the port of Long Beach in operating 24/7.

“Well, it’s about time.

“Major ports around the globe already operate around the clock.

“But here in the United States, unions have largely stood in the way of round-the-clock operations.

“And even now, the port of Los Angeles-Long Beach will not be fully 24/7 for a while.

“Only one of the container terminals is currently open around the clock, and then only for part of the week.

“The others are only slowly moving toward 24-hour operations, with no deadline in sight.

“Other than moving toward 24/7 operations in Los Angeles, however, the president is doing almost nothing to address the supply chain bottleneck.

“Infrastructure upgrades for ports, trucking, and rail are stuck in limbo while Democrats debate their $3.5 trillion tax-and-spending spree.

“And while the president’s transportation secretary has talked about loosening trucking regulations, his department is actually pursuing an aggressive regulatory agenda that is likely to make transporting goods around this country more, not less, difficult.

“And I don’t even want to think about the transportation challenges that are likely to result from the government mandates and regulations that will emerge from Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree.

“Mr. President, it’s unfortunate that Democrat elites can’t seem to grasp that inflation is a serious problem for working families – and that the solution to our inflation problem is not flooding the economy with even more government money.

“If Democrats succeed in passing their reckless tax-and-spending spree, high inflation may be the order of the day for many, many days to come.

“Let’s hope that Democrats think better of their spending plans before American families end up paying the price.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=543E7182-4B76-46F7-9103-F20A851333D5,"Thune Demands Answers on Supply Chain Crisis, Presses Biden Nominees",2021-10-20,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today questioned several Biden nominees about the unprecedented supply chain crisis in the United States. Thune emphasized that these massive backlogs at American ports are hurting farmers and ranchers in South Dakota and negatively affecting commodity prices.

Thune’s opening remarks below:

“We are facing this unprecedented supply chain crisis, and we’ve got a lot of Americans who are encountering already empty store shelves, long wait times, rising costs, and we’ve got the holiday season approaching.

“In my state, agricultural producers are also feeling the crunch, with capacity for their goods being hampered by a combination of surging demand for containerized shipping and a massive backlog at our nation’s ports – particularly LA-Long Beach. This inefficiency has downstream effects on commodity prices, hurting farmers and ranchers across the country, including in South Dakota.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=CB4A0306-A13B-4E7F-A6A6-4CE40CB6A292,Thune Questions Biden Nominee to Lead U.S. Customs and Border Protection,2021-10-20,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), a member of the Senate Committee on Finance, yesterday questioned Chris Magnus, President Biden’s nominee to be commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. During the hearing, Thune pressed Magnus on his position on sanctuary cities and the current border crisis, which has stretched immigration enforcement to a breaking point. Thune also questioned him about the current supply chain crisis that has been created by bottlenecks at American ports and the impact it has on market access for South Dakota producers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnsons-office-now-accepting-spring-2022-internship-applications,Johnson's Office Now Accepting Spring 2022 Internship Applications,2021-10-19,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) is seeking internship applications for Spring 2022 in his Washington, D.C., Rapid City, Aberdeen, and Sioux Falls offices.

Duties will include researching legislation, writing memos, attending committee hearings and briefings, assisting with social media, answering constituent phone calls, sorting mail, and providing support to the staff and the Member of Congress.

Interns will be given the opportunity to develop their research, writing, and communications skills while working closely alongside staff. They will also gain an in-depth understanding of how the legislative branch of government operates while helping to serve South Dakota constituents.

""Interns play an integral role in the success of our office,"" said Johnson. ""We make sure that each intern gets a hands-on experience of the day-to-day operations of our federal government. It is our goal that every intern will leave this office with the tools and experience necessary to excel in their professional careers.""

Interested applicants should complete the online internship application and submit a resume online no later than November 12, 2021. More information about the internship program, along with the application, can be found online at dustyjohnson.house.gov/services/internships.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=AA639539-8E33-4CCD-BEF5-371A1BE438E1,"Thune: Democrats Prioritize Socialist Spending Spree, Turn Blind Eye to Biden’s Crises",2021-10-19,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today spoke on the Senate floor about the glaring disconnect between Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending spree and the needs of South Dakotans. Thune noted that while Democrats push for a massive expansion of government that will result in historic tax hikes, Republicans will continue to fight against them and work to protect individual liberties. Thune also discussed the impact of inflation on the economy and called out Democrats for misleading the American people about the cost of their radical spending bill.

On rising inflation (excerpts):

“The inflationary impact is being felt all across this country.

“Energy costs are up, gasoline costs are up by huge amounts, food costs are up in this country, housing costs are up.

“There isn'thardly any area of our economy where people aren't being impacted by inflation, meaning that the dollars that they earn are stretching less further all the time.

“And that is not a fake thing. It's not a temporary thing. It's a real thing, [and] people are experiencing it in their economic lives on a daily basis.”

…

“If you put more dollars out there, which is what's being talked about by our Democrat colleagues, another $3.5 trillion that would flood the economy, I think the expectation is a very real one that you're going to see that inflationary pressure accelerate [and] intensify because when you have got that much money, that many dollars chasing too few of goods, inflation is an inevitable result.

“And the idea that we need to spend another $3.5 trillion and that somehow that's going to be a solution right now also is not consistent at all with the facts and the data.”

On Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending spree (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, the Biden border crisis continues unabated.

“In August, U.S. Customs and Border Protection encountered 208,887 people attempting to illegally cross our southern border – a 318 percent increase from August of 2020.

“For context, that number is bigger than the population of Sioux Falls, South Dakota – the largest city in my home state.

“Mr. President, at this point “crisis” is too mild a description.

“Things at the border are out of control.

“And there’s little to suggest that things will improve anytime soon, as the Biden administration continues to permit an influx of migrant entries and has sought to install appointees who have lax views about enforcing our immigration laws.

“In yet another sign of how bad things are, dozens of National Guard members from South Dakota recently deployed to our southern border.

“I know these South Dakotans are always ready to serve whenever and wherever they are needed, and I am grateful for their service.

“Mr. President, you’d think the border crisis would be at the top of Democrats’ priority list here in Washington.

“But you’d be wrong.

“In fact, the border crisis seems like barely a blip on Democrats’ radar.

“And it’s not the only crisis they’re ignoring.

“Our national security situation has taken a giant step backward with the president’s disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal and the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan.

“And here at home inflation is rapidly becoming a serious and long-term problem.

“Americans’ purchasing power is shrinking as they have to stretch their paychecks to cover increases in everything from the price of groceries to the price of gas.

“But none of that really seems to matter to Democrats.

“Their main priority seems to be forcing through a $3.5 trillion, partisan tax-and-spending spree that would permanently expand the reach of government into Americans’ lives.

“Mr. President, where to start when it comes to Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree?

“There are the tax hikes that would put American businesses at a disadvantage on the global stage and shrink jobs and opportunities for American workers.

“There’s the death tax expansion that could put a lot of family farms and businesses in jeopardy.

“There are the major new entitlements – free college, free preschool, subsidized daycare, paid leave.

“Yes.

“One of our major existing entitlement programs, Medicare, is rapidly heading toward insolvency, yet instead of shoring up this program, Democrats are expanding entitlements and putting the government on the hook for an unsustainable level of spending.

“Then there are items that get less attention but are just as troubling.

“Mr. President, traditionally in the United States individuals have picked the winners and losers through the free market.

“But the more you insert government into economic and family life, the more government ends up being the one making the decisions.

“Government ends up picking the winners and losers.

“Take Democrats’ child care benefit.

“A 2020 Bipartisan Policy Center survey found that among working families who used center-based child care, 53 percent used a faith-based center.

“53 percent.

“But now Democrats are coming in with their child care subsidies and in the process changing decades-old child care funding programs to favor secular child care providers who provide care at day care centers.

“So if you’re one of the 53 percent who chooses a faith-based provider for your child, you could be out of luck – not because you’ve changed your child-care preferences, but simply because Democrats have set up their benefit to favor secular, center-based child care providers.

“And Democrats are repeating this pattern of picking winners and losers throughout their bill.

“Labor unions win under this bill.

“Democrats have included a special benefit that would expressly allow union members to deduct their union dues on their taxes.

“Meanwhile, non-union workers can expect to pay their usual tax bills.

“You only get special privileges if you’re a union member.

“It’s not clear why the 90 percent of American workers who don’t belong to a union should subsidize the dues of those who do.

“But I guess Democrats want to make sure they get those union votes come election time.

“And of course that’s not the bill’s only benefit for unions.

“There’s funding for electronic voting systems for union elections.

“And incentives to purchase an electric car from a union factory.

“Unions of course are not the only winner.

“Electric vehicle manufacturers, for one, also win.

“The bill clearly endorses electric vehicles as the climate change solution for the transportation sector.

“Other clean energy technologies – notably biofuels – take a back seat in this bill.

“Mr. President, I could go on all day when it comes to the spending priorities in this bill.

“Like the fact that the bill dedicates more than $200 million – $200 million – to urban agriculture.

“That’s right.

“Urban agriculture.

“Mr. President, I’m not saying that you can’t have a garden if you live in a city.

“But urban gardens are never going to produce the volume of food needed to feed our country.

“And anyone who thinks they will doesn’t know much about agriculture … which may be the problem.

“Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree reads like the product of too much socialist daydreaming and not enough time spent learning about how things like agriculture, energy, and economies actually work.

“Speaking of which, I haven’t mentioned the Democrats’ tree-equity measure.

“Yes. Tree equity.

“Democrats have allotted $3 billion prioritized for what they were recently referring to as tree equity.

“Mr. President, I support – and encourage – planting trees.

“But I don’t think the federal government can afford to spend $3 billion on tree equity.

“Especially when Democrats are planning to spend $200 million– yes, $200 million – for a park in House Speaker Pelosi’s district that features luxury housing and a golf course.

“And provide tax benefits for Ivy League universities and other well-funded colleges – including a new tax credit for higher education institutions for teaching “environmental justice” programs.

“Then there are the tax credits for electric bicycles – bicycles that can cost up to $8,000.

“It may just be me, but if you can afford an $8,000 bicycle, I’m not sure you need a tax credit for it from the federal government.

“Then of course Democrats are planning to provide billions of dollars to fund a Civilian Climate Corps to provide government jobs for climate activists.

“And $20 billion for the creation of a National Climate Bank to fund Democrats’ pet environmental projects.

“And the list goes on. And on.

“Mr. President, the more you read Democrats’ bill – with its massive expansion of government, its historic tax hikes, and its payoffs to liberal constituencies – the more you realize that there is pretty much no area of life that Democrats think wouldn’t be better run by the federal government.

“But my fellow Republicans and I still believe in a vibrant private sector – and in the right of individuals and families to run their lives as they see fit.

“And so we will continue to oppose Democrats’ socialist spending spree and continue to fight to secure a future of prosperity, opportunity, and freedom for each and every American.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=C1F81891-3163-4DE5-AD11-2FC893DCA83C,Thune: Democrats Propose an Unprecedented IRS Shakedown of Americans’ Financial Transactions,2021-10-19,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today reiterated his strong opposition to Democrats’ proposal to double the size of the IRS and monitor everyday Americans’ bank accounts in order to help fund the Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending spree. In September, Thune led a letter to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) urging him to abandon the Biden administration’s unprecedented proposal to expand the reporting of the private, confidential financial data of law-abiding Americans from financial institutions to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Thune’s letter was signed by every Republican member of the Senate Committee on Finance and the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

Thune’s remarks below:

“As you know, we've been saying for some time now, we have been criticizing and pointing out what a terrible idea the Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree is for the country and what a horrible vision that is for the future of America.

“And today, we want to focus on one particular element of that, and that is how it's paid for. And in particular, this proposal, which would double the size of the IRS, literally double the size of the IRS, and allow them to snoop into every American's transactions, bank transactions.

“And as has already been pointed out, this is something that is so sweeping, we've never seen anything like it before, where you're literally talking about an IRS dragnet across the bank accounts of every single American, or at least every single American who banks. Because as has been pointed out, any American who uses a bank account probably at some point is going to – with deposits and withdrawals – exceed $600.

“Even if it's $10,000, it's still going to capture thousands, millions of Americans with this.

“And so this is one of many really bad ideas in the Democrat proposal. But this one in particular needs to be killed for all the reasons that have been mentioned, and not the least of which is the huge invasion into Americans’ privacy.

“And something that, as Senator Moran pointed out, I've heard from, you know, lots of South Dakotans, thousands of South Dakotans, already about this particular proposal.

“But secondly, because it will double the size of the IRS, an agency which had been pointed out, has had problems keeping information secret.

“Huge leaks of massive amounts and volumes of individual private taxpayer information. And so it's got that component, you know, historic in terms of its sweep and invasion of, you know, people's privacy in this country, the shakedown that it would represent of American taxpayers.

“And finally, if successful, who ends up paying for it? Well, the Joint Committee on Taxation, which does a distributional analysis of all these proposals, has said in their analysis that about 75 percent of the revenue raised under this proposal would be generated by people making less than $100,000 a year. Only five to 10 percent of that revenue would be paid by those making more than $500,000 a year.

“So in other words, the Democrats’ suggestion that this proposal and the tax increases included in their plan won't hit lower income Americans, it's just false.

“I mean, this is a this is a proposal that will shake down average Americans in a way that they’ve never been shaken down before, and the burden of compliance with this is going to be borne by people in lower income categories.

“The tax revenues raised, and the Democrats are assuming literally hundreds of billions of dollars in tax revenue as a result of this, the majority of that up to 75 percent, borne by those making less than $100,000 a year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-supports-bill-protect-americans-personal-banking-information,Johnson Supports Bill to Protect Americans Personal Banking Information,2021-10-15,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and Drew Ferguson (R-GA) introduced the Prohibiting IRS Financial Surveillance Act to prevent the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) from implementing invasive bank reporting requirements on personal small dollar financial transactions.

Currently, the Biden Administration is pushing a proposal for comprehensive financial account surveillance, including the collection of private bank information to close the ""tax gap."" Their plan would require banks and other financial institutions to provide the IRS details and data on their customers' accounts, including deposits and withdrawals worth more than $600.

""The Biden Administration's proposal to review every bank transaction over $600 is big government at its worst,"" said Johnson. ""This proposal would place an unimaginable strain on small banks and expand the reach of the IRS into our everyday lives. Americans deserve financial freedom and privacy – this level of data collection puts that privacy at great risk.""

In September, Johnson joined his Republican colleagues in urging Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to abandon this proposal because of the significant impact of compliance costs on community banks.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=74F5F08E-0916-4F51-9257-3110D3306536,Thune’s Office Accepting Spring Interns,2021-10-13,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) is currently seeking college students to serve as spring interns in his office in Washington, D.C., as well as in his offices in Aberdeen, Rapid City, and Sioux Falls.

Interns in Thune’s state offices will participate in constituent service and state outreach activities, while interns in the Washington, D.C. office will have the opportunity to witness the legislative process and attend Senate votes and hearings. Both in-state and Washington, D.C., internships will allow students to work closely with constituents, hone their research and writing skills, and learn a multitude of valuable office skills.

“Interns who are selected will receive a firsthand look at the legislative process and the day-to-day life in a congressional office,” said Thune. “In Washington, interns will have the opportunity to attend Senate votes and hearings and participate in other activities that are unique to Capitol Hill. Students who are interested in interning in Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, or Rapid City will find an equally rewarding experience with assisting staff on important constituent service requests and state outreach activities, which are critical to my work for the people of South Dakota. I encourage all college students who are interested in these opportunities to apply today.”

Thune serves as the Senate Republican Whip, the number two position in Senate leadership, and is a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation; a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry; and a member of the Senate Committee on Finance.

College students who are interested in interning in Thune’s Washington, D.C., Aberdeen, Rapid City, or Sioux Falls offices should fill out an online application form with their resume and cover letter by November 12, 2021, at https://sen.gov/KZ48 or they can locate the application by searching “intern program” on www.thune.senate.gov.

For more information, please call 202-224-2321.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rounds-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-designating-october-as-national-cybersecurity-awareness-month,"Rounds, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Designating October as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month",2021-10-07,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Cybersecurity Subcommittee of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Gary Peters (D-Mich.), chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and others introduced a bipartisan resolution designating October 2021 as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. The resolution recognizes the grave threat cyber-attacks, including ransomware attacks, pose to our national security and highlights simple steps individuals and businesses can take to protect their networks.

“Increasing overall cybersecurity awareness, prevention measures and educational resources will help protect Americans from attacks and attempted hacks,” said Senator Rounds. “As the ranking member of the Cybersecurity Subcommittee of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I am glad to join this bipartisan effort to bring attention to Cybersecurity Awareness Month and work to deter cyberattacks in our businesses, homes, government and military.”

“National Cybersecurity Awareness Month is an important way to help educate people, businesses, and government officials about how they can protect themselves and their customers from cyber-attacks that could significantly disrupt our daily lives and livelihoods,” said Senator Peters. “At a time when Americans are increasingly reliant on the internet to conduct day-to-day business – reminding folks of simple actions they can take to protect their security will help prevent cybercriminals from stealing personal information. This bipartisan resolution also highlights the need for an all hands on deck approach to prevent hackers from breaching American networks and compromising our national security.”

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Angus King (I-Maine) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) are cosigners of the resolution.

The National Cybersecurity Awareness Month Resolution will designate October 2021 as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. The resolution highlights how cybersecurity threats pose national security and economic threats to the United States, and notes simple steps individuals and businesses can take, including setting strong passwords and using multi-factor authentication, to improve their individual cybersecurity. The resolution underscores the importance of public-private collaboration to ensure our nation has the tools and resources needed to respond to and recover from cyber-attacks. It also recognizes the importance of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) as they lead efforts to protect American networks.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rounds-opposes-debt-limit-increase,Rounds Opposes Debt Limit Increase,2021-10-07,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) today released the following statement after voting against increasing the debt limit:

“The Democrats want to increase spending by $3.5 trillion,” said Rounds. “This cannot be sustained. I joined all of my Republican colleagues in voting no to increase the debt limit. I voted to end debate after requiring Democrats to limit their debt ceiling increase to a specific dollar amount without the support of a single Republican senator. This provides a short-term protection against default, maintaining the full faith and credit of the United States. Furthermore, this will also require Democrats to return in December and explain to the American people the true cost of their tax and spending spree.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=CCA7A44C-8C20-4943-968D-E35A8BB7D816,South Dakota Health Care Leader Joins Thune at Telehealth Hearing,2021-10-07,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, today helped lead a subcommittee hearing on the importance of telehealth services and the critical role that broadband access plays in the public health response. During the hearing, Thune questioned South Dakotan Deanna Larson, CEO of Avel eCare in Sioux Falls, and Brendan Carr, commissioner at the Federal Communications Commission, about the crucial role telehealth plays in rural areas. In his opening statement, Thune highlighted the benefits of telehealth in rural areas, his work securing key telehealth provisions in the CARES Act, cosponsoring the CONNECT for Health Act, and authoring the RUSH Act.

Thune’s opening remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Good morning and thank you, Chairman Lujan for holding this hearing.

“As a resident of a rural state, I’ve long been a proponent of telehealth for the access it gives to rural communities.

“If you live in a major city, you usually don’t have to think too much about where you’ll find a doctor if you need one.

“But that’s not always the case for Americans in rural areas.

“In the smallest towns in America, access to specialty care can be a challenge.

“The only providers may be a primary care provider, a nurse, or a pharmacist.

“These providers are essential to rural families, but there are times when specialty care is needed.

“And when there isn’t a specialist close by, telehealth can help get patients the medical care they need from a remote location through the use of technology.

“Telehealth services are also critical in nursing home facilities.

“In my state, we have strong programs designed to bring on-demand support into facilities to help avoid unnecessary emergency department transfers.

“My Reducing Unnecessary Senior Hospitalizations Act – or RUSH Act – would help facilitate more arrangements like we have in South Dakota, allowing medical groups to collaborate with nursing homes to provide telehealth services through a Medicare alternative payment model.

“I’m also pleased to support the bipartisan CONNECT for Health Act, which aims to expand telehealth services through Medicare, and is supported by more than half of the U.S. Senate.

“The bipartisan CARES Act played an important role in further expanding access to telehealth throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and I look forward to continuing the conversation with my colleagues at the Senate Finance committee on the path forward for Medicare reimbursement post-pandemic.

“And in my role on this committee, I will continue to advocate for the expansion of broadband services which has allowed more patients in rural areas to take advantage of telehealth services.

“It is critical that any additional broadband funding goes to truly unserved areas so we can expand the reach of next-generation services like telehealth.

“The Federal Communications Commission plays an important role to help expand telehealth services through a number of programs.

“Congress, acting in a bipartisan manner, provided a significant amount of funding for the FCC’s COVID-19 Telehealth Program through the CARES Act and the year-end coronavirus relief package.

“Several health care providers in all 50 states have been able participate in this important program.

“In my home state there are number of excellent health care providers expanding access to telehealth services by participating in this program.

“The Community HealthCare Association of the Dakotas received funding to for equipment necessary to expand remote patient monitoring and other telehealth services in community health centers.

“Sanford Health was able to utilize funding to secure wireless access points, which is necessary to conduct confidential telehealth appointments.

“And Avera Health and its affiliate Avel eCARE, represented on this panel today, received funding for a number of services including remote monitoring equipment and software to provide care for chronically ill patients in their homes.

“In addition to the FCC’s COVID-19 Telehealth Program, the FCC’s Universal Service Fund provides support for the Rural Health Care Program and for the Connected Care Pilot Program, which was spearheaded by Commissioner Carr.

“I appreciate Commissioner Carr taking the time to speak with us today about those programs.

“It is my hope we see you again soon before this committee as there are many other important issues at the FCC of interest to members.

“And lastly, I’d like to extend my thanks to Ms. Deanna Larson, President of Avel eCARE, for joining us today.

“As President of Avel eCARE, Ms. Larson has helped advance telehealth services across many areas in the Midwest.

“Thank you to all of the witnesses for being here today, and I look forward to hearing from you.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=E668A82B-4CF7-4BCA-BF64-71CE5AC8763B,"Thune, Smith Introduce Bill to Assist School Districts as They Apply for Impact Aid Program Funding",2021-10-07,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) today introduced the Supplemental Impact Aid Flexibility Act, legislation that would allow school districts participating in the Impact Aid Program to use previously reported student headcounts on their Impact Aid applications for the 2022-2023 school year. School districts will soon begin to complete their Impact Aid application for the 2022-2023 school year, and this bill would ensure that they do not need to recalculate federally connected students due to prolonged uncertainty created by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Impact Aid Program reimburses school districts located on federal property or for their students who live on federal land and, therefore, collect less in local property taxes to fund their schools.

“In order to support the South Dakota school districts that participate in the Impact Aid Program, it’s imperative that we again provide them with the ability to use previously reported student headcounts on their Impact Aid applications that they will complete this fall,” said Thune. “Not only would this free up time and resources that can be directed to their students, it would also protect school districts from future Impact Aid funding reductions due to temporary enrollment declines as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“The pandemic continues to hit many Minnesota school districts hard, and for those districts that receive Impact Aid, it’s important that they maintain reliable, stable funding,” said Smith. “This bipartisan legislation will ensure that while the pandemic continues to affect school operations, our Impact Aid districts won’t have to recalculate their student headcounts.”

“As COVID-19 continues to impact students and school districts across the country, federally impacted school districts face significant challenges in conducting accurate Impact Aid student counts,” said Hilary Goldmann, executive director of the National Association of Federally Impacted Schools. “These counts determine the districts’ Impact Aid, which pays for staff salaries, student transportation, education technology, social emotional supports for students and more. This legislation is a commonsense way to enable all 1,100-plus federally impacted school districts – including Indian lands, military and federal property school districts – to submit timely applications and secure the Impact Aid needed to provide high-quality education to students. The National Association of Federally Impacted Schools supports this legislation and thanks Senators Thune and Smith for their leadership.”

“Federally impacted school districts once again find ourselves in a similar position to 2020 in regards to the volatility of our student counts from the effects of COVID-19. Across the nation, we appreciate the fact that Senator Thune and Senator Smith are willing to address our concerns,” said Trista Olney, chair of the Impacted Schools of South Dakota and business manager of the Douglas School District. “Having legislation that will allow federally impacted school districts to submit timely applications and utilize flexibility in how families are counted will help ensure that our communities who serve federally impacted students are able to continue to serve students and families. This flexibility will allow us to meet the ongoing academic, social emotional, and safety needs of our students.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/biden-administrations-overhaul-pslf-program-includes-johnson-and-courtney-bill,Biden Administration’s Overhaul of PSLF Program Includes Johnson and Courtney Bill for Active-Duty Military,2021-10-06,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today the U.S. Department of Education (ED) announced an overhaul of the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF). The changes included the Recognizing Military Service in PSLF Act (H.R. 3684), a bill introduced by U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and Joe Courtney (D-CT-02), to allow active-duty servicemembers to count months spent on active duty toward PSLF, even if the servicemember's loans were on a deferment or forbearance rather than in active repayment.

""Allowing all deployed servicemembers to receive credit toward student loan repayment is only fair,"" said Johnson. ""I'm glad the administration has looked to our bill for this solution, and I thank Congressman Courtney for his leadership.""

""For the 10,000 active-duty servicemembers who are deployed overseas at any given time while placing their student loans in military service deferment, these new changes mean that their full period of deployment will now be counted towards their student loan forgiveness,"" said Courtney. ""Just this week, 60 Minutes reported that only 350 members of the armed services have been able to take advantage of PSLF so far—a minute fraction compared the 180,000 who are eligible. Our public service workers entered into an agreement where they were promised these benefits, and no one deserves it more than our uniformed, active-duty servicemembers deployed far away from home. This is a correction we've worked hard to bring about, and it couldn't have happened without the strong, consistent support of servicemembers and veterans in Connecticut and across the country.""

Background:

Currently, servicemembers are eligible for PSLF, which means they can enroll in income-driven repayment plans that will result in student loan forgiveness after ten years of qualifying service. Servicemembers also have access to student loan deferment and forbearance periods during military deployments. These loan deferment and forbearance periods are intended to account for the unique financial impacts of deployment on a servicemember's family, but currently those periods do not count as PSLF qualifying payments—meaning that if a servicemember chooses to put their loans into deferment or forbearance during a deployment, they will need to complete a longer overall period of service before qualifying for student loan forgiveness.

Reps. Johnson and Courtney's bipartisan Recognizing Military Service in PSLF Act would count military student loan deferment or forbearance as qualifying payments to PSLF so that servicemembers who deploy have their full time of service appropriately counted towards their loan forgiveness. The bill would extend the new coverage to:

Active-duty service members deployed overseas on a combat tour;

Active-duty service members deployed away from their families and home station to support a Department of Defense mission;

National Guard and Reserve members brought onto active duty orders for more than 30 days to support a federal mission, such as an overseas deployment or U.S. disaster relief;

National Guard members brought on to state active duty orders to support a state mission, which includes those members who have been supporting the COVID-19 pandemic response.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rounds-on-senate-floor-president-biden-owns-the-afghanistan-debacle-and-history-will-not-judge-him-kindly,Rounds on Senate Floor: President Biden owns the Afghanistan debacle and history will not judge him kindly,2021-10-06,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) delivered remarks on the floor of the Senate today regarding the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan.

In his remarks, Rounds highlighted a South Dakota veteran from Belle Fourche, who reached out to Rounds’ staff in hopes of evacuating her Afghan interpreter. Rounds also spoke in detail about President Biden’s decision to reject the professional advice of his military advisors to complete a conditions-based withdrawal rather than a date certain withdrawal. Read or watch Rounds’ full remarks below.

Senator Rounds’ remarks as delivered:

Madam President,

Tomorrow marks the 20th anniversary of the day the United States entered Afghanistan – the beginning of “Operation Enduring Freedom.”

On October 7, 2001, the U.S. military conducted its first strike on the terrorists responsible for attacking our nation on 9-11.

As President Bush said on that day: It was not a mission we asked for, but a mission that we would fulfill.

For the past two decades, brave men and women have answered the call and put on the uniform of our country to fight terrorists in the name of freedom.

We were a beacon of hope in a region of chaos.

Our presence made a difference.

As I travel my home state of South Dakota, I’ve heard from many people who were disturbed by the events that unfolded during our final days in Afghanistan.

I share their frustrations.

Together, we watched the Taliban forcefully regain control of an entire country that we worked so hard to keep free from terrorist groups.

We watched the credibility of the United States on the world stage diminish as we carelessly left our friends and allies behind.

We watched civilians hopelessly cling to the wings of aircraft in desperate hope of escape.

And we watched 13 brave men and women in uniform lose their lives while helping others seek freedom.

As we mourn the loss of their lives, we recognize and appreciate their service to our nation.

We also remember all those who fought by our side for twenty years, many of whom remain trapped in Afghanistan.

Brandy Roseland, a veteran from Belle Fourche, South Dakota, worked as a contractor in Afghanistan.

That’s where she met her interpreter.

According to Brandy, her interpreter served with the highest distinction and faced great personal risk, often putting himself in harm’s way to aid and protect Americans and his fellow Afghans.

On one such occasion, Brandy’s interpreter discovered an American contractor who died in an accident outside of Kabul.

The interpreter singlehandedly returned the contractor’s body, as well as sensitive equipment and documents to the US Embassy.

That took courage.

Brandy returned to the United States, but she stayed in contact with her interpreter.

When Afghanistan began to fall to the Taliban, she knew she needed to do all she could to help get him to safety.

That’s when Brandy called us and asked if we could help him escape the clutches of the Taliban.

For weeks, our office worked relentlessly to maneuver his application for a Special Immigrant Visa through the bureaucratic process at the State Department.

Our work was ultimately successful from an administrative standpoint, but the overall mission was a failure.

While we had done all we could to help the interpreter receive his visa, our forces had exited before he could get on a plane to safety.

Today, he remains in hiding in Afghanistan.

If he is found by the Taliban, his fate will certainly be sealed.

We all know that there were no easy decisions regarding Afghanistan.

But there was clearly a wrong one.

For months, we had warned of the perils of making an arbitrary decision based on the calendar as opposed to an assessment of the conditions on the ground.

And we weren’t alone.

As the only Republican member of both the Armed Services and Foreign Relations committees, I’ve had the opportunity these past few weeks to hear from the senior military officers who advised President Biden – General Milley, Secretary Austin and General McKenzie.

Their message to the president was clear: A withdrawal on a date-certain without conditions would lead to the fall of Afghanistan to the Taliban.

Despite receiving the best military advice in the world, President Biden decided to use his own judgement and made the wrong decision.

His directive to withdraw on a date certain - without regard for the conditions on the ground – needlessly put American soldiers in harm’s way and forced our military to undertake an assignment destined for failure.

Our military simply ran out of time.

They could not get all of our Americans out.

And they could not get all of our Afghan allies out, including Brandy’s interpreter.

But it didn’t have to end this way.

Our military leaders offered President Biden the correct path forward.

Their commander-in-chief failed them.

Lately, the president has blamed a lot of people for his failure.

This includes the Afghan security forces and his own generals who he falsely claimed advised him to make this decision.

But this does not fall on any of them.

President Biden owns this debacle and history will not judge him kindly.

Because of his error, al Qaeda now has a breeding ground.

America is less safe.

The world is less safe.

I’ll close with a message for our veterans:

While I was governor, I attended 31 funerals of South Dakotans who died fighting in the war on terror.

We will not forget their sacrifice and their family’s loss.

While freedom may not endure in Afghanistan today, for twenty years you protected our nation and kept the fight away from our doorstep.

Your service was not in vain. Your sacrifice made a difference.

You represent the best of our country and your nation is grateful.

Always remember, it’s not the politician who protects our right to vote.

It’s not the journalist who protects our freedom of speech.

It’s not the preacher who protects our freedom of religion.

All of our freedoms are defended and protected by the men and women who wear, and have worn, the uniform of our great nation.

God Bless you, and God Bless the United States of America.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=DF9148A7-9B5E-4B92-A627-C497155ECF32,Thune: South Dakotans Aren’t Fooled By Democrats’ Illogical Math,2021-10-06,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today called out the Biden administration for falsely claiming that Democrats’ reckless $3.5 trillion tax-and-spending spree would actually cost zero dollars. Thune noted that the revenue Democrats are projecting to raise through doubling the size of the IRS and tracking how law-abiding Americans spend their money is overly optimistic and will not come close to covering the massive $3.5 trillion price tag.

Thune’s remarks (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, on September 25, President Biden tweeted, and I quote, ‘My Build Back Better Agenda costs zero dollars.’

“Yes.

“According to the president, a series of new, permanent entitlements and a massive expansion of government is going to cost … zero dollars.

“And the president has been doubling down on that claim.

“On Monday he once again tweeted, ‘The fact of the matter is my Build Back Better Agenda costs $0.’

“Well, no, Mr. President, the fact of the matter is that your Build Back Better Agenda costs $3.5 trillion – at least.

“The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget – where the president’s treasury secretary served on the board before joining the administration – estimates the cost at $5 trillion or more.

“But leaving that aside, even if the president has been merely trying to claim that his plan is fully paid for by tax hikes and other measures, to say that it would cost zero dollars is beyond ridiculous.

“Let’s say your college education was completely paid for by your parents.

“Did it then cost zero dollars?

“Of course not.

“It cost a lot of money – money that your parents likely were able to pay only because of a lot of hard work and sacrifices.

“Or what if you’ve saved up for a couple of years for your dream vacation, and now you have all the money you need, down to the cost of your Ubers and your hotel breakfasts?

“Does that mean your vacation is going to cost zero dollars?

“Of course it doesn’t.

“The same thing applies when it comes to the Democrats’ legislation.

“Even if Democrats had all the money they need to pay for every dollar of their massive spending spree, the price tag still wouldn’t be zero dollars.

“The price tag for this proposal is at least $3.5 trillion – and likely much more.

“Presumably what the president has been referring to when he makes the absurd claim that his spending bill will cost zero dollars is his assertion that his bill won’t add to the debt.

“The problem is, that isn’t true either.

“Because the pay-fors in Democrats’ bill won’t actually pay for the bill in its entirety.

“The tax hikes in Democrats’ legislation will actually only pay for about two-thirds of the bill’s ostensible $3.5 trillion price tag.

“And the other revenue-raising components in the bill won’t make up the difference.

“And what are those other revenue-raising components?

“Well, a substantial part is increased IRS enforcement.

“Democrats claim that they can get $700 billion by closing the tax gap – the difference between taxes owed and taxes paid.

“Now, there’s no question that individuals should not get away with cheating on their taxes.

“And there are undoubtedly reasonable measures we can take to strengthen enforcement and narrow the gap.

“Unfortunately, Democrats haven’t proposed reasonable measures.

“Instead, Democrats are proposing to (a) double the size of the IRS, and (b) have the IRS snoop on Americans’ bank accounts.

“That’s right.

“Democrats want to double the size of the IRS and force banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions to provide details of individuals’ spending to the federal government.

“Under the administration’s proposal, once your withdrawals or deposits for the year exceed a certain amount – $600 if the president has his way – your bank or credit union would be forced to report the details of your activity to the federal government.

“So the federal government could end up with a record of every time you eat dinner out, or pay your rent, or buy a new jacket or toaster oven.

“The invasion of privacy is staggering.

“We already have a mechanism in place to allow the IRS to view large transactions that might indicate potential criminal activity.

“We do not need the government monitoring every purchase law-abiding Americans make from the App Store, or how many times Americans buy a cup of coffee.

“Not to mention the incredible demands this reporting requirement would place on community banks and credit unions.

“Banks and credit unions around the country are worried about how they would manage to comply with the bill’s reporting requirements.

“And, Mr. President, let’s not forget that the agency that would be receiving all this information has a reputation for mishandling private data.

“In fact, the IRS was subject to a massive leak or hack of private taxpayer information mere months ago – information that somehow ended up in the hands of advocates at ProPublica.

“And neither Treasury nor the IRS has provided meaningful follow-up about the data breach, much less any accountability.

“Giving an already troubled agency access to reams of additional private taxpayer information is a very bad idea.

“And, Mr. President, even if we granted that this massive invasion of privacy was worth it, the truth is that all this additional enforcement still wouldn’t provide the money Democrats are claiming it would provide.

“Democrats claim that they can get $700 billion from the bill’s increased tax enforcement measures.

“The reality is likely to be more than $200 billion lower, according to an analysis from the Wharton School.

“So Democrats would be doubling the size of an agency with clear management issues and implementing a staggering invasion of taxpayer privacy to pay for a tiny fraction of their spending spree.

“As I said, Mr. President, no taxpayer, at any income level, should be able to avoid paying the taxes he or she owes.

“And I’ve actually signed on to co-sponsor legislation that would look at responsible ways to strengthen IRS enforcement efforts.

“But Democrats’ proposal to double the size of the IRS and track taxpayers’ spending should never have seen the light of day.

“Even former IRS Commissioner John Koskinen, who served under Presidents Obama and Trump, said he thought that $80 billion for the agency was too much.

“Mr. President, taken together, IRS enforcement on steroids and Democrats’ massive tax hikes will still not be enough to pay for their multi-trillion-dollar legislation.

“Partly because the tax hikes may not bring in as much money as Democrats claim.

“But also because Democrats have used a lot of budget gimmickry to disguise the true costs of their bill.

“The standard method for analyzing the cost of a bill is a 10-year window.

“So you look at what your bill would cost over 10 years, and that’s how you get the cost of your bill.

“Well, that’s not exactly what Democrats are doing.

“That child allowance in Democrats’ bill?

“Democrats have only counted the cost of that allowance through 2025.

“That allows Democrats to claim that the cost of that provision is around $500 billion – instead of the $1.1 trillion the measure would actually cost over a decade.

“And all those tax hikes are of course just for covering the costs of the bill over a 10-year – or shorter – window.

“But in reality the new government benefits Democrats are putting in place are not going to expire in 10 years.

“This bill is effectively instituting multiple permanent entitlement programs.

“And the long-term cost of those programs is not going to be covered by the tax hikes Democrats are currently proposing – as massive as those tax hikes are.

“Mr. President, I’ve talked a lot about the dollar costs of this bill – which are massive and not fully paid for.

“I could spend just as long talking about the bill’s other costs.

“Like the fact that this bill is likely to cost workers jobs and opportunities by increasing the tax burden on American businesses and depressing economic growth.

“Or the cost to American families, who are going to be facing higher energy bills and higher prices as a result of this legislation.

“But I’m going to stop here for today.

“One thing is for sure, Mr. President, Democrats’ massive spending spree is going to cost a lot more than zero dollars.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=6788477F-8D22-48EA-A607-44BA0D3F2E1F,"Thune: Democrats Leave Rural Americans Behind, Prioritize Socialist Policies",2021-10-05,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today spoke about how the Democrats’ reckless tax-and-spending spree will hurt rural Americans and middle-class families in South Dakota. Thune vowed to do everything he can to protect South Dakotans from Democrats’ out-of-touch, socialist fantasies.

Click here to watch the video.

Thune’s remarks (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, there are a few quote-unquote “winners” under Democrats’ $3.5 trillion tax-and-spending spree.

“Unions, for example.

“And electric vehicle manufacturers.

“But there are a lot more losers.

“Like middle-class families, who will have to stretch their paychecks to cover higher inflation and higher energy bills.

“Workers, who will see jobs and opportunities shrink.

“And farmers and ranchers.

“Mr. President, agriculture is the lifeblood of my home state of South Dakota, and so ag issues are pretty much always on my mind.

“And I am deeply concerned by what Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree will mean for South Dakota farmers.

“For starters, I’m worried that Democrats’ bill could mean the end of some family farms thanks to the bill’s expansion of the death tax.

“Mr. President, I’ve long crusaded against the death tax.

“Death should not be a taxable event.

“And there should be limits on how many times the government can tax the same money.

“But I get particularly fired up when talking about the death tax when it comes to farmers and ranchers.

“Because the death tax can threaten the existence of family farms and ranches.

“Why?

“Because farming and ranching are often cash-poor operations.

“Farmers’ and ranchers’ money is tied up in their land, not the bank.

“So a farmer could have land worth as much as several million dollars, and still struggle to break even in years where the harvest has been poor.

“Then when that same farmer dies, the IRS will come in demanding a substantial portion of his estate, but since most of his money is tied up in the land, there’s a good chance that the family will not have enough money in the bank to pay the IRS.

“And so they’ll have to start selling off land – the lifeblood of their farming operation.

“Give it a couple generations, and the death tax can drive a family farm right out of existence.

“Mr. President, I am proud that the tax reform bill we passed in 2017 included death tax relief.

“We successfully doubled the estate tax exemption, which lifted the specter of the death tax for most farmers and ranchers and helped reduce the need for costly estate planning efforts to try to keep the farm or ranch in the family.

“Unfortunately, we were not able to make this relief permanent, which is why I’ve continued to push for eliminating the death tax.

“But at least family farms and ranches were set to have relief through 2025.

“Not anymore.

“Democrats are set to return the death tax exemption to its pre-Tax Cuts and Jobs Act level starting in January.

“Which means that more family farms and ranches will once again be in the tax’s crosshairs.

“Mr. President, as I said, death should not be a taxable event.

“The IRS should not be coming in at the same time as the undertaker.

“And the government should not be in the business of shuttering family farms and family businesses.

“But thanks to Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree, a lot of farmers are going to have to start worrying about whether they’ll be able to hand their farm on to their children – or whether a government tax bill will mean the end of an enterprise their family has cultivated for generations.

“The icing on the cake, of course, is that at the same time Democrats are planning to expand a tax that threatens family farms, they’re also planning to include tax relief for their millionaire contributors in blue states.

“That’s right.

“Despite the fact that Democrats are scrambling for money to fund some of their spending spree, they’re preparing to provide tax relief for wealthy Democrat donors.

“Mr. President, I’m disturbed by the fact that Democrats are willing to jeopardize family farms and ranches to help fund their spending spree.

“But I’m not all that surprised.

“Because it’s clear from the bill that farmers and ranchers are not high on Democrats’ priority list.

“The bill’s spending on rail, for example, emphasizes passenger rail – which will benefit Amtrak and a handful of East Coast cities but means little to most Americans.

“The rail that matters to Americans in the heartland is freight rail, particularly short line railroads, which carry farmers’ and ranchers’ corn and wheat and beef to markets around the United States.

“But short line rail gets short shrift in this bill.

“Biofuels also get short shrift.

“As this bill makes clear, Democrats have picked their preferred winner in the clean energy stakes – electric vehicles.

“Biofuels take a back seat in Democrats’ legislation, despite the essential role they have played in making American energy cleaner – and despite the significance of biofuels to the rural economy.

“Mr. President, every few years, Congress passes a major farm bill.

“For decades, that legislation has been the product of bipartisan collaboration – and a lengthy hearing and fact-finding process that allows for extensive input from farmers and ranchers and other ag stakeholders.

“It’s one of the last truly bipartisan things we regularly do around here.

“But Democrats have decided to use their tax-and-spending spree to circumvent the bipartisan farm bill process.

“Democrats are extending farm programs without bipartisan input and without real involvement from many in the agriculture community.

“And of course they’re not extending all farm bill programs.

“They’re not, for example, extending – or providing money for – the farm safety net.

“Instead they’re targeting money at programs that they feel will allow them to advance their climate agenda.

“Farmers are not Democrats’ main interest when it comes to the agriculture provisions of this bill; Democrats’ climate agenda is the priority.

“Mr. President, if I’m not here in Washington for Senate business, I can usually be found back home in South Dakota, where I spend a lot of time talking to farmers and ranchers.

“Most of them haven’t shown a lot of interest in tax breaks for union dues or electric vehicle tax credits.

“But I have heard from a lot of farmers and ranchers who are worried that Democrats’ proposed tax policies may threaten their livelihood.

“And unfortunately they’re right to be worried.

“Speaker Pelosi suggested that this tax-and-spending spree was about Democrats’ values.

“Based on what we’ve seen, I’m not too sure those values align with those of rural Americans.

“Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree is a bad deal for rural Americans – and for working families around the country.

“And I’ll continue to do everything I can to protect Americans from the dangers of Democrats’ socialist fantasies.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=8F741C12-4336-47AE-8172-1ACDAE2D3447,Thune Questions Big Tech Whistleblower on Transparency and Accountability at Facebook,2021-10-05,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, today questioned Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen during a subcommittee hearing on protecting children online. Earlier this year, Thune reintroduced two bipartisan bills, the Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency (PACT) Act and the Filter Bubble Transparency Act, that would help increase online transparency and accountability.

Thune’s opening remarks below (as prepared for delivery)

“Thank you Chairman Blumenthal and Ranking Member Blackburn for holding this important hearing.

“While serving on the Commerce Committee, I’ve held hearings and introduced bipartisan bills to address these issues being discussed today. The Filter Bubble Transparency Act introduced with Senators Blumenthal and Blackburn and many other colleagues on this Committee would provide transparency around the algorithms Big Tech companies use, and it would give users the option to engage with social media platforms without being manipulated by these secret formulas that essentially dictate the content you see when you open an app or log on to a website.

“It’s also clear we need to hold Big Tech accountable by reforming Section 230, and one of the best opportunities for bipartisanship on the issue is the Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency or PACT Act, my legislation with Senator Schatz. Apart from stripping Section 230 protections for content that a court determines to be illegal, the PACT Act would increase transparency and due process for users around the content moderation process. Importantly, in the context of this hearing with a major Big Tech whistleblower, the PACT Act would explore the viability of a federal program for Big Tech employees to blow the whistle on wrongdoing inside the companies where they work. In my view, we should encourage employees in the tech sector to speak up about questionable practices of Big Tech companies so we can, among other things, ensure Americans are fully aware of how social media platforms are using artificial intelligence and opaque algorithms to keep them hooked on the platform.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/weekly-column/count-on-your-local-paper,Count on your local paper,2021-10-04,2021,2021-10,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"When I was growing up, there were a lot of things I could count on: more than one Rounds brother to a bedroom, a prayer before meals and a local newspaper in the house.

I learned early on the local newspaper was not only a source of information, but also a source of income. One of my first jobs as a kid was delivering the Minneapolis Tribune. When I got my driver’s license, I began distributing papers to the other paperboys. That job required me to be up at 4 AM to meet the truck that would drop off the papers. Those were some early mornings and during the winter months I think I almost ruined dad’s Plymouth Station wagon driving through snow-packed roads and below zero temperatures with more than 500 pounds of newspapers. I’d always have one of my little brothers in the backseat helping put together the inserts so we could get done in time for 8:30 AM church. When I was in high school, I began working for the Capital Journal cleaning the presses with Derald Gross and delivering the afternoon edition of the paper to other paperboys in the area.

As a young paperboy, I didn’t fully understand the importance of the newspaper I was tossing on the front step, but I certainly do today. In our fast-paced, digitally-generated news world, there is something special about picking up a local newspaper – even if you get a little “newsprint” on your hands. It’s reassuring knowing you can trust the reporter because they are a neighbor or, in most cases, a friend. A newspaper is meant to be a source of unbiased information and local newspapers in South Dakota provide just that.

My office subscribes to local newspapers from across the state, and every time I get a chance, I take the opportunity to peruse them. You can learn so much from the local paper like who is getting married, who is having a birthday and who recently passed away. You can also keep up on the local sports teams and what is happening with various organizations in town. Sure you can see a lot of things on social media today, but let’s face it, most of us don’t have hours to scroll through and see all that is happening.

As an elected official, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of the local newspaper in effectively conveying a story. I’ve always done my best to fulfill requests from our South Dakota media because I know how important timely, reliable news is to the people of this state.

Unfortunately, across our nation, more and more towns are losing their newspaper leaving communities without a central gathering place for the news. Nationally, statistics show that more than one-fourth of local papers have shut their doors during the last 15 years. As someone who cares about the integrity of my news source, I would hate to see that trend continue. Thankfully, in South Dakota, our state continues to be served by over 120 newspapers which publish either daily or weekly.

As we celebrate National Newspaper Week, I want to recognize and thank everyone working for our state’s local newspapers. From the editor to the advertising sales rep and the reporter to the delivery person, you all play a vital role in keeping our communities connected, vibrant and strong. And that’s something I know I can count on.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=28DA34E9-9D9B-41D6-9C78-C7A5E55AD80E,Thune: Democrats Are in Disarray,2021-09-30,2021,2021-09,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today spoke about Democrats’ disastrous, out-of-touch policies that would significantly expand the federal government’s reach into South Dakotans’ everyday lives. Thune also discussed the ongoing disarray within the Democrat Party, and he noted that the Biden administration’s self-inflicted border crisis is a direct result of its own failed policies.

Thune’s remarks (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, yesterday I came down to the floor to talk about President Biden’s mishandling of Afghanistan.

“Today I want to talk about another situation the administration has mishandled – or, perhaps more accurately, failed to handle – the crisis at our southern border.

“I say failed to handle because by and large the Biden administration has completely failed to take any meaningful action in response to this crisis.

“Sure, they occasionally make half-hearted stabs at the problem.

“Usually when the media starts noticing things like thousands of migrants and their children residing in a squalid refugee camp under a bridge in Del Rio, Texas.

“But mostly they seem content to ignore it.

“More than six months into this crisis, there is still no sign that the president plans to travel to the border to get a look at the problem firsthand.

“In fact, it’s not clear whether President Biden has ever visited the border at any point during his political career.

“The president seems to have adopted an ‘if I pretend the problem doesn’t exist it will go away’ attitude.

“It’s kind of like earlier this year, when Biden administration officials refused to call the situation a crisis – despite overwhelming evidence that the border influx had reached crisis proportions.

“It’s like they believed that if they didn’t use the word, they could somehow avoid the reality.

“Unfortunately for the administration, Mr. President, there is no way to avoid the fact that we are facing a border crisis.

“Last month, U.S. Customs and Border Protection encountered 208,887 people attempting to cross our southern border illegally – a 318 percent increase from August of 2020.

“Let me just repeat that.

“In August Customs and Border Protection encountered 208,887 people attempting to cross our southern border – a 318 percent increase from the prior August.

“For context, that number is bigger than the population of Sioux Falls, South Dakota – the largest city in my home state.

“In a single month.

“At this point the situation at the border is beyond a crisis; it’s completely out of control.

“And the situation may soon deteriorate further, with one outlet reporting yesterday that tens of thousands of additional Haitian migrants are set to head toward our southern border.

“Mr. President, illegal migration across the southern border tends to slow down during the heat of summer.

“Not under the Biden administration.

“Under the Biden administration, the numbers this summer just got worse.

“Encounters along the southern border in July were up 420 percent from July of 2020.

“420 percent.

“And of course, these numbers only reflect individuals Customs and Border Protection has been able to apprehend.

“There are undoubtedly individuals who are successfully evading apprehension and illegally taking up residence in our country.

“Then there are the individuals being detained and then released into the country with orders to appear at an immigration court.

“This so-called “catch and release” approach is notorious because the individuals released into the country often never show up at immigration courts as directed.

“In spite of this, the administration is using this strategy and is apparently employing it to deal with the surge of migrants from Haiti.

“Despite having committed to deporting these individuals, the administration is releasing thousands of Haitian migrants into the United States.

“Mr. President, the situation at the border is a crisis.

“It’s a security crisis.

“It’s a logistics crisis.

“And it is a humanitarian crisis.

“Attempting to cross the border illegally is a dangerous enterprise.

“Migrants face the risk of death, injury, heat exhaustion, and disease – to say nothing of the risk of exploitation from smugglers and traffickers who are profiting to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars by conveying people across the border illegally.

“By failing to stem the flow of illegal immigration, the president is perpetuating this humanitarian disaster.

“And Democrats in Congress are helping him.

“My colleagues across the aisle have been trying to add amnesty for illegal immigrants into the tax-and-spending spree they’re considering.

“That’s a policy that’s pretty much guaranteed to further encourage individuals to make the dangerous and illegal journey across our southern border.

“Mr. President, most people are familiar with the expression ‘fiddling while Rome burns.’

“It’s an expression I’m forcibly reminded of when I consider the actions of my Democrat colleagues and the Biden administration.

“Our country is, as I’ve discussed, facing a massive security and humanitarian crisis at our southern border.

“On top of that, we just completed a disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal that has put our country at greater risk from terrorists, damaged our standing among our allies, and condemned the Afghan people to Taliban tyranny.

“Meanwhile, on the economic front, we’re facing a serious inflation problem that doesn’t look like it’s going to go away any time soon.

“Americans are seeing their purchasing power shrink as they face higher prices on everything from groceries to gas.

“And the Democrat response?

“Essentially sticking their fingers in their ears and humming.

“Or checking their watches to see if the unpleasantness is over yet.

“If you were just going by Democrats’ legislative priorities, you’d be forgiven for thinking that none of the problems I’ve discussed even exist.

“Rather than addressing our border crisis or our inflation problem, Democrats are right now attempting to tee up a massive, reckless tax-and-spending spree to vastly expand the reach of government into Americans’ lives.

“Our border is in crisis, our country is at risk, American families are struggling with inflation, and Democrats’ top priority is … advancing socialism.

“And not only does their bill fail to address any of the major challenges I’ve outlined, it’s pretty much guaranteed to make them worse.

“Dumping trillions of additional government dollars into an economy already struggling with inflation is pretty much guaranteed to send our already-high inflation even higher.

“And, as I mentioned, Democrats are frantically working to circumvent Senate rules and insert some type of amnesty into their spending bill – which will only aggravate the crisis at our southern border.

“Although at this point, Mr. President, I’m wondering if Democrats will even be able to pass their tax-and-spending spree.

“The Democrat Party is in disarray.

“And the story changes so often I think reporters are starting to get whiplash.

“I certainly am.

“One minute the Democrat leaders are united; the next minute the Senate leader doesn’t know what the speaker is doing.

“One minute the House is going to consider the tax-and-spending spree and the infrastructure bill together; the next it’s going to consider them separately.

“Democrat leaders announce an agreement on a framework for their tax-and-spending spree; their rank-and-file members report they’ve never seen it.

“Their spending spree is going to cost $3.5 trillion. No, wait, it’s going to cost $0.

“Democrat progressives and Democrat moderates are at each other’s throats.

“The House speaker is chewing out centrist Democrats.

“And Democrats can’t agree on a host of issues, from Iron Dome funding to prescription drug measures to infrastructure.

“The Democrat Party is unraveling fast.

“Mr. President, it’s deeply unfortunate that Democrats can’t seem to rise to the challenges of governance.

“President Biden’s administration was supposedly going to usher in a new era of domestic tranquility and international respect.

“The professionals, we were told, were back in charge.

“Instead, it looks like Democrats and the president are going to leave our country a lot worse off than they found it – burdened by tax hikes and government spending (if they can ever manage to agree on a bill), in greater danger from terrorism, and with a never-ending crisis at our southern border.

“If Democrats don’t change their focus and get their act together, a weakened country is likely to be their legacy.

“Mr. President, I yield the floor.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=D3D15A1D-1542-482D-8E65-5C9301804BA7,"Thune Stands Up for Consumers, Insists That Big Tech be Held Accountable",2021-09-30,2021,2021-09,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, today expressed deep concern about the lack of transparency and the limited accountability of big tech companies during a Commerce Committee hearing, titled “Protecting Kids Online: Facebook, Instagram, and Mental Health Harms.” Thune questioned Facebook’s global head of safety about the use of algorithms to influence certain behaviors online and whether consumers should have the ability to use Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms without being manipulated by algorithms. Earlier this year, Thune reintroduced two bipartisan bills, the Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency (PACT) Act and the Filter Bubble Transparency Act, that would help increase online transparency and accountability.

Thune’s opening remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Thank you for holding this important hearing.

“I, along with many of my colleagues, are deeply concerned about the lack of consumer transparency and limited accountability of big tech companies. Consumers have become increasingly troubled about the way their information is used by social media platforms, and how these sites decide what news and information we see.

“Because of the secrecy with which platforms protect their algorithms and content moderation practices, which largely has been and continues to be a black box, consumers have little or no idea how the information they see has been shaped by the sites they’re visiting.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-phillips-get-it-done-act-forces-lawmakers-avoid-shutdowns-and-address,"Johnson, Phillips: Get It Done Act Forces Lawmakers to Avoid Shutdowns and Address Spending",2021-09-29,2021,2021-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and Dean Phillips (D-MN-03) introduced the GET IT DONE Act, a bipartisan bill to implement sequestration to avoid a government shutdown should Congress fail to pass a complete appropriations bill.

""When political leaders can't reach an agreement, we need a system that holds them accountable rather than punishing millions of everyday Americans,"" said Johnson.

""Government shutdowns are the worst negotiation tactic in our political system. The human toll is irresponsible and inexcusable,"" Phillips said. ""The only people who should suffer financial hardship when elected leaders can't govern are the elected leaders themselves. I am proud to join Rep. Dusty Johnson, my fellow member of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, to lead this endeavor.""

Both Johnson and Phillips were sworn into office during the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history. During the 2019 government shutdown, a reported 4,400 federal employees in South Dakota did not receive a paycheck, while Members of Congress continued to get paid. The government has shut down on three separate occasions for a total of 54 days in the past eight years.

If by the first day of a fiscal year a regular appropriations bill has not been enacted, the bill would:

Continue the previous fiscal year's funding for the first 30 days;

For each subsequent 30-day period, the rate of operations will be reduced by 2.5%;

Hold senior government officials pay in an escrow account until such a bill is enacted;

Prohibit funds to be used to pay for travel for senior government officials to leave the Washington Metropolitan Area;

Express that Houses of Congress may not adjourn for a period of more than 12 hours until such a bill is enacted, ensuring Members of Congress remain in Washington to pass a budget.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rounds-colleagues-introduce-the-afghanistan-counterterrorism-oversight-and-accountability-act,"Rounds, Colleagues Introduce the Afghanistan Counterterrorism, Oversight and Accountability Act",2021-09-29,2021,2021-09,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Jim Risch and others introduced the Afghanistan Counterterrorism, Oversight and Accountability Act, legislation to address the outstanding issues related to the administration’s rushed and disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan.

“The refusal to listen to commanders on the ground, failure to provide sufficient resources to execute visa processing requirements and groupthink among senior Biden administration advisors caused the withdrawal from Afghanistan to be chaotic and deadly. Congress has an opportunity to act and address the many consequences of the president’s botched withdrawal. Our legislation prioritizes the safe evacuation of Americans and Afghan partners still stranded in Afghanistan while holding the Taliban accountable for their terrorist acts and human rights abuses. I will work with my colleagues to keep Americans safe and terrorism at bay,” said Rounds.

“I’ve asked the administration for a plan and while they say they have one, they have not revealed any details of a plan. My office is still working with Special Immigrant Visa applicants who supported America’s effort in Afghanistan. Now families, including children, of these Afghans are in danger of execution. We have a responsibility to get them out. Congress has an obligation to engage in oversight of these activities. I hope the administration would work with us in passing this essential legislation in an expedient, bipartisan manner,” added Rounds.

In addition to Rounds, other cosponsors of this bill include Senators Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Todd Young (R-Ind.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Richard Burr (R-N.C.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.).

This legislation:

Establishes a State Department task force to focus on the evacuation of American citizens, legal permanent residents, and Afghan Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) who are still stuck in Afghanistan.

Imposes oversight mechanisms on the processing of SIVs and refugees.

Requires strategies for counterterrorism and for the disposition of Taliban-captured U.S. equipment.

Sanctions the Taliban and others in Afghanistan for terrorism, drug-trafficking, and human rights abuses.

Authorizes sanctions on those providing support to the Taliban, including foreign governments supporting the Taliban.

States that the United States should not recognize any member of the Taliban as the ambassador of Afghanistan to the United States or as the ambassador of Afghanistan to the United Nations.

Calls for a comprehensive review of foreign assistance to entities that support the Taliban.

Places restrictions on non-humanitarian foreign assistance to Afghanistan.

Text of the legislation can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=620B9A68-75FB-4F9D-9E6C-99433741BD2A,"Thune: Biden Ignored Top Military Commanders and Endangered Americans, Created Catastrophic Withdrawal From Afghanistan",2021-09-29,2021,2021-09,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today spoke on the Senate floor in response to yesterday’s Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on President Biden’s botched withdrawal from Afghanistan. Thune discussed the revelation that President Biden’s decision to remove troops from Afghanistan on an arbitrary deadline went directly against the advice he received from his top military commanders, and he highlighted the urgent need for members of the administration to be held accountable.

Thune’s remarks (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, yesterday’s Senate Armed Services Committee hearing gave us disturbing new information on the president’s Afghanistan debacle.

“Thanks to yesterday’s hearing, we now know that President Biden pulled troops from Afghanistan against the advice of his military commanders … and was less than truthful after the fact when asked about their recommendations.

“General Milley and General McKenzie’s testimony made clear that they had both recommended that the United States leave a small contingent of U.S. troops in the country – advice the president ignored.

“Mr. President, thanks to President Biden’s ill-considered withdrawal from Afghanistan, here’s the situation we find ourselves in:

“The Taliban is once again in control of Afghanistan.

“And just in case anyone thinks this is a kinder and gentler Taliban, let’s look at the facts.

“The Taliban has stocked its government with terrorists, including former inmates of Guantanamo Bay and members of the Haqqani network – a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization with a number of members on the U.N. Security Council’s sanctions list.

“Many of the members of the new Taliban Cabinet are on the U.N. Security Council’s sanctions list.

“And the government is well-stocked with pre-9/11 Taliban leaders – the same leaders who allowed Afghanistan to serve as a refuge for al-Qaeda.

“So that’s the new Taliban government.

“What is it doing?

“Well, in mid-September the Taliban announced that secondary schools would reopen … for boys.

“There was no mention of girls.

“A Taliban official announced that women would not be allowed to play any sport that might show their bodies.

“Women are being excluded from the workplace.

“In Helmand province, barbers have been barred from shaving or trimming beards.

“In one city, the body of an alleged criminal was hung from a crane in the city square, while in Kabul Taliban members brutally flogged a man accused of stealing a phone.

“And a senior Taliban leader announced the return of executions and the cutting off of hands as punishment.

“A kinder, gentler Taliban this is not.

“And this formerly somewhat ragtag group is now the possessor of a significant amount of U.S. military equipment – including weapons, combat vehicles, aircraft, and surveillance equipment – much of it acquired from the Afghan National Security Forces.

“And while the president might like to blame the Afghan forces for disbanding, the truth is he bears part of the responsibility for their collapse.

“For years, the U.S. trained and equipped Afghan troops to fight the way we do – including a reliance on close air support and a sophisticated intelligence-gathering operation.

“And the limited number of U.S. troops still in the country were playing an essential role in providing the intelligence, logistics, and air support the Afghan military needed.

“Then the president pulled all remaining U.S. support almost overnight.

“It’s no surprise that in the wake of that the Afghan military quickly collapsed.

“There’s no question that there were preexisting problems in the Afghan forces, including fraud and corruption.

“But the Afghan military was playing a key role in combating the Taliban and terrorist activity in Afghanistan.

“And it was the abrupt withdrawal of U.S. support that precipitated its collapse.

“Mr. President, thanks to the president’s withdrawal, our ability to combat terrorist activity in Afghanistan and the region has been significantly degraded, as General Milley’s testimony yesterday made clear.

“As the Washington Post reported, and I quote, “Al-Qaeda remnants are in Afghanistan and interested in growing, Milley said, but the United States no longer has military or intelligence assets on the ground to keep tabs on the militants. … The withdrawal ‘makes it much more difficult for us to conduct intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance,’ Milley said, including missions to locate militants.”

“In short, there is every reason to expect that Afghanistan will once again become a haven for terrorists.

“In fact, because of the huge number of weapons and equipment we’ve left behind, it’s probably more accurate to say Afghanistan will likely become a terrorist super-state.

“Meanwhile, as I said, our ability to effectively detect and defend against emerging threats in Afghanistan has been significantly diminished.

“There is no intelligence or counterterrorism strategy that will fully offset the loss of American boots on the ground.

“U.S. military and intelligence personnel still in the country, in coordination with our local partners, were playing a crucial role in providing intelligence on evolving terrorist threats in Afghanistan and throughout the region.

“That intelligence network is gone now.

“We no longer have human intelligence on-scene, and we no longer have any bases in-country from which to conduct operations.

“Future missions will have to be staged from distant bases or seaborne assets – complicating the mission and significantly increasing our response time.

“That’s not just an inconvenience, Mr. President.

“By compromising our ability to respond to terrorist activity, this withdrawal is endangering our country.

“For 20 years we’ve managed to prevent another major terrorist attack on U.S. soil.

“How long is that going to last when Afghanistan is once again a haven for terrorists and our intelligence and response capabilities have been permanently weakened?

“Mr. President, I haven’t even mentioned the damage that the president’s bungled withdrawal has done to our relationships with our allies.

“The president who was supposedly set to restore America’s standing in the world has instead presided over a national embarrassment that has left our allies wondering whether or not we will keep our commitments.

“We’ve damaged our credibility with our allies.

“And it’s clear that Russia and China are enjoying our humiliation on the world stage.

“Not to mention the way that our withdrawal has empowered our terrorist enemies.

“Ceding Afghanistan to the Taliban and its terrorist allies has not exactly made us look like an intimidating foe.

“It wouldn’t be surprising if terrorists are thinking that all they have to do in future battles is wait us out until we give up and withdraw.

“Mr. President, I’m sure the president would like to put his chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal behind him.

“But there’s a big problem with that: namely, the fact that his administration still has U.S. citizens left behind in Afghanistan.

“The administration has been hazy on the details – either because it’s not sure how many American citizens are left or because administration officials don’t want to give a number – but it’s clear that there are still a number of Americans stuck in Afghanistan.

“Then there are the tens of thousands of Afghans we abandoned – Afghans who were affiliated with the U.S. government or worked with the U.S. military and whom we promised to protect.

“These individuals – and their families – are currently in grave danger.

“My office continues working to evacuate a number of green card holders and at-risk Afghans to safe countries in the region, and several of the individuals we’re working with have received death threats from the Taliban.

“And while there are dedicated State Department and Defense Department personnel coordinating with veteran-led groups to evacuate Afghan citizens, the administration is still struggling to develop a clear plan for getting them out of the country.

“Mr. President, we still need to learn more about the chaotic U.S. evacuation, which resulted in the deaths of 13 U.S. service members and scores of Afghan civilians.

“But one thing is very clear.

“President Biden made an ill-considered and disastrous decision when he chose to withdraw our troops on an arbitrary timetable.

“And the Afghan people are currently suffering the consequences.

“And should Afghanistan once again become a terrorist haven – as seems likely – our country could also pay a deadly price.

“We have to make sure it doesn’t come to that.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=A603CEA1-DF2C-4529-827D-3E734686736B,Thune Discusses Need For Big Tech Algorithm Transparency and Platform Accountability,2021-09-29,2021,2021-09,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, questioned witnesses about the need for more algorithm transparency during a Commerce Committee hearing, titled “Protecting Consumer Privacy.” Thune highlighted the algorithmic practices used by big tech companies to analyze consumer data. Earlier this year, Thunereintroduced the bipartisan Filter Bubble Transparency Act that would require large-scale internet platforms that collect data from more than 1 million users and gross more than $50 million per year to provide greater transparency for consumers and allow users to view content that has not been curated by a secret algorithm.

Thune’s opening remarks below (as prepared for delivery):

“Thank you, Chair Cantwell and Ranking Member Wicker, for holding today’s hearing. I firmly believe that enacting comprehensive privacy legislation should be a top priority of this Committee. Since we began privacy conversations in the aftermath of the Cambridge Analytica scandal when I served as Chairman of this Committee, I’ve stated that there is no question we need a federal law to protect consumers’ privacy, and I do not believe we should relinquish our responsibility by simply increasing our federal bureaucracy by putting a significant amount of funding at the FTC.

“So it is my hope that we can work together in a bipartisan fashion to establish a uniform national policy. I’ve pushed for more transparency about the algorithms used by big tech companies to analyze consumer data and make predictions intended to influence consumer behavior.

“Many consumers are unaware that much of the content they see on internet platforms is determined by sophisticated algorithms that draw on data about each consumer’s online activity. Billions of people are being fed content on internet platforms that is basically selected for them by opaque algorithms designed to keep consumers engaged on the platform. The powerful artificial intelligence behind these platforms creates a unique universe of information for each user, a phenomenon that is often referred to as the ‘filter bubble.’

“Earlier this month, the Wall Street Journal revealed that Facebook altered its opaque algorithm after seeing a decline in user engagement. The change to the algorithm that was intended to optimize user engagement resulted in more divisive and manipulative content being pushed to users. This troubling report is exactly why I introduced the Filter Bubble Transparency Act, and I’m proud to have strong bipartisan support for this bill with Senators Blumenthal, Blackburn, Moran, Schatz, Warner, Collins, and Klobuchar as cosponsors.

“Our legislation would give consumers more transparency about how algorithms are used to select content they see online, and it would give consumers the option to engage with internet platforms without being manipulated by opaque algorithms.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=24E87D49-86CB-4BF8-9811-896E42E49D38,Democrats’ Massive Government Expansion Jeopardizes Individual Liberties,2021-09-28,2021,2021-09,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today called out Democrats for pursuing an irresponsible and reckless tax-and-spending spree that would significantly increase already high inflation and raise taxes on South Dakota families. Thune emphasized that Democrats’ massive government expansion would stifle economic growth and jeopardize individual liberty.

Thune’s remarks (as prepared for delivery):

“Mr. President, last night’s vote was an exercise in futility, as Democrats knew would be the case.

“For months now, Republicans have made it clear that we will not help Democrats raise our nation’s debt limit to finance Democrats’ partisan tax-and-spending spree.

“If Democrats want to pass a massive partisan tax-and-spending bill without any Republican input, they can raise the debt limit without any Republican input.

“Democrats, of course, have complained that they can’t raise the debt ceiling by themselves.

“The truth is that they don’t want to do it by themselves.

“Democrats want the credit for their social policies and the government handouts they’re planning, but they don’t want to own the price tag.

“Mr. President, Democrats are talking about engaging in a wild, reckless spending spree that will worsen our inflation problem, threaten economic growth, and substantially increase the government’s control over Americans’ lives.

“Republicans can’t support that kind of legislation.

“And we’re not going to help Democrats increase the credit card limit to pay for it.

“If Democrats want to raise the debt limit, they’re going to have to do it by themselves.

“Mr. President, I have come down to the floor more than once to talk about the reckless spending and the massive tax hikes that Democrats are planning.

“And I could spend the rest of my time here on the floor today talking about the irresponsible amount of money Democrats want to spend and the tax hikes they’re proposing.

“But today I want to look at things a little differently.

“Mr. President, last week House Speaker Nancy Pelosi had this to say in reference to Democrats’ $3.5 trillion spending bill: ‘It’s not about a price tag, it’s about values.’

“‘It’s not about a price tag, it’s about values.’

“Well, Mr. President, she’s partially right.

“Because while the price tag does matter, this is about more than just the price tag.

“This is about values – and visions.

“Specifically, Republicans’ and Democrats’ different visions of government.

“Democrats’ bill isn’t just about spending money – even though it does spend money: a lot of it.

“It’s about a specific vision of government: one where the government is intimately involved in nearly every aspect of your life, from – to quote the New York Times’ article on Democrats’ bill – ‘cradle to grave.’

“Mr. President, someone once said to me that the difference between Democrats and Republicans is that ‘Republicans believe in less government and more freedom. Democrats believe in less freedom and more government.’

“I think that’s a pretty accurate description of what we’re seeing here.

“Republicans oppose Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree because it spends an irresponsible amount of money, but more than that, we oppose it because it moves us further and further away from the American idea of limited government.

“Our Founders established a limited government for a reason – because they respected individual liberty.

“And they knew that the heavier the hand of government, the less liberty Americans would enjoy.

“That’s why our Constitution is as much about what government cannot do as what government can do.

“Now, Democrats might protest that they’re not restricting individual liberty.

“That they’re just providing a helping hand or redistributing wealth.

“But when you expand the reach of government, the diminishment of liberty is inevitable.

“When government gets involved in a new area of life, it rarely, if ever, just comes in with benefits.

“It comes in with rules. And regulations. And mandates.

“Take Democrats’ child care benefit.

“Democrats are preparing to offer child care subsidies to parents around the country.

“But it’s not as simple as just taking some money from the government and going out and purchasing child care.

“Because it turns out that Democrats are changing decades-old child care funding programs to favor secular child care providers who provide care at day care centers.

“If you prefer to choose a faith-based provider for your child, you may be out of luck.

“Mr. President, a 2020 Bipartisan Policy Center survey found that among parents who used center-based child care, 53 percent used a faith-based center.

“53 percent.

“And they reported that they chose these providers for a variety of reasons – from the quality of the caregivers to the cleanliness of the facility to the values of the provider.

“That number may change if Democrats’ tax-and-spending plan goes into effect – not because parents are changing their child care preferences, but simply because Democrats have set up their benefit to favor secular, center-based child care providers.

“With government benefits comes government control.

“And government picking the winners and losers.

“Secular child-care providers win under Democrats’ massive government expansion.

“Faith-based providers and parental choice, not so much.

“Electric vehicle manufacturers win.

“The natural gas and biofuels industries, not so much – despite the fact that both have been key to producing cleaner American energy.

“Unions win under this bill.

“Americans making charitable donations … not so much.

“Democrats are allowing the charitable deduction to expire – but adding a new tax break to pay for union dues.

“When government is in charge, government dictates your choices … and picks winners and losers.

“Government also gets a lot more involved with overseeing the details of your personal life.

“Democrats are planning to add a provision that would force banks and credit unions to report the details of your financial activity to the IRS, including certain deposits, withdrawals, and other transactions.

“Democrats are apparently still discussing the amount that would trigger the new reporting requirement, which has been proposed at $600 or $10,000, but whichever number they settle on, a lot of ordinary Americans are going to end up having their bank or credit union forced to report their private information to the IRS.

“Talk about Big Brother.

“Mr. President, probably the biggest reason that Republicans believe in limited government is because we believe in individual liberty, and we know that the more government expands into your life, the more your choices and liberties are curtailed.

“But there are other reasons that we believe in limited government.

“One big reason is that we know that the federal government simply isn’t the best way of delivering many services.

“There are some things that the federal government is well-suited to do.

“Handling our national defense, for example.

“If our country is invaded or attacked, it’s a lot more effective for a national military to respond rather than for each state to respond on its own.

“But there are a lot of other things that are better handled at a state level.

“Or at a local level.

“Or, in some cases, not by government at all.

“Our state government in South Dakota is a lot more familiar with the needs of South Dakotans than the bureaucrats at Washington agencies.

“And the city government in Sioux Falls – or Rapid City, or Pierre, or Box Elder – is even more familiar with, and more able to respond to, the needs of its individual residents.

“That’s why a lot of things are better handled at the state or local level – or, as I said, at times not by government at all.

“Big government is impersonal and inflexible.

“It’s not familiar with, and can’t take into account, the particular and sometimes opposing needs of each state or each community.

“Big government is one-size-fits-all.

“Big government is also inefficient.

“Anyone who thinks the federal government would do a good job running Americans’ health care hasn’t dealt with a federal agency very recently.

“And big government is unaccountable.

“Think about it.

“If you have a company that offers a bad product, what’s going to happen?

“People are not going to buy your product, and you’re going to go out of business.

“Quickly.

“It doesn’t work that way with the federal government.

“The federal government is not going to go out of business because it isn’t doing a good job delivering the services it’s promised.

“If the government is in charge of your health care and it isn’t delivering quality health care, you have very little recourse.

“Sure, you can try to vote in new members of Congress to reform things.

“But even then, change can take a while.

“Real reform of an existing government program is rare.

“And elimination of a bad government program is even rarer.

“As Ronald Reagan used to say, ‘The nearest thing to eternal life that we'll ever see on this earth is a government program.’

“Mr. President, I could go on.

“I could talk about how big government tends to stifle the innovation that leads to economic growth.

“Or ask why Democrats think that a group of bureaucrats in Washington are the best decision-makers for American families.

“But I want to touch on one other point before I close.

“And that is that Democrats believe in government dependence as the goal.

“They might dispute that characterization.

“But you only have to look at the tax-and-spending package they’re putting together to know that that is their vision.

“They envision a future where Americans rely on the government for everything from child care to education to health care … and on and on.

“And that is a vision with which Republicans fundamentally disagree.

“Our vision is not a future of government dependence.

“Because government doesn’t bring prosperity.

“It doesn’t bring the American dream.

“At best government is going to help you survive.

“It’s not going to help you thrive.

“Yes, government can be an important backstop in difficult situations or national emergencies – like the COVID crisis.

“But the goal should always be to get people to a place where they don’t have to rely on government.

“Permanent government dependence robs people of the purpose and pride that comes with work and personal achievement.

“And, as I said, it denies them the opportunity for prosperity.

“No one ever became prosperous on government benefits.

“Mr. President, if you asked most Americans what the American dream means to them, I’m pretty sure you would hear things like ‘a good job,’ ‘a rewarding career,’ ‘the chance to pursue my ambitions,’ or ‘the chance to improve my circumstances and make life better for my children.’

“That’s what Americans envision – not a future of government dependence and government subsidies.

“People are looking to achieve the kind of prosperity where they don’t need government involvement in every aspect of their life – and can choose their path for themselves instead of having to follow the rules and regulations that come with government benefits.

“That’s a vision that Republicans share.

“And it’s what we’re committed to fighting for on behalf of the American people.

“And that, Mr. President, is another reason we’re committed to maintaining limited government.

“Because the bigger the government grows, the more that vision of opportunity and prosperity shrinks.

“And so, Mr. President, Speaker Pelosi is partially right.

“She’s wrong to dismiss the bill’s price tag – because it is profoundly irresponsible to mortgage our children’s and grandchildren’s future with a massive government spending increase.

“But she’s right that it is about values.

“And Republicans aren’t opposing Democrats’ tax-and-spending spree simply because it spends a lot of money, but because it advances a vision of government with which we profoundly disagree.

“We don’t believe that the American dream is government dependence.

“We don’t believe in an ever-expanding role for the federal government.

“And we don’t believe that bureaucrats in Washington are a good substitute for the judgment of the American people.

“And that, Mr. President, that is why every Republican in the Senate will be voting against Democrats’ reckless spending legislation – not just because it spends too much money, but because it fundamentally undermines the American tradition of liberty and limited government.

“It is about values, Mr. President.

“And it’s about visions.

“And Republicans do not share Democrats’ vision of a future of big government and Big Brother.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=866F6132-35D0-48F6-A404-72FDE68F0EC6,"Thune, Crapo, Toomey Lead Colleagues in Urging Democrats to Abandon Proposal that Would Compromise Law-Abiding Americans’ Financial Information",2021-09-27,2021,2021-09,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.); Mike Crapo (R-Idaho.), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Finance; Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; and fellow Senate Republicans, including every Republican member of the Senate Committee on Finance and Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, today urged Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) to abandon the Biden administration’s unprecedented proposal to expand the reporting of the private, confidential financial data of law-abiding Americans from financial institutions to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The administration’s proposal would force financial institutions to report customer information such as gross inflow and outflow information and transaction information directly to the IRS.

“This proposal represents a radical departure from existing reporting requirements associated with national security and actual taxable events,” the senators wrote. “Placing more requirements on financial institutions would not only adversely affect these institutions and their customers – who ultimately pay the price for compliance costs – but it would also inundate the IRS with layers of new paperwork and taxpayer data that is either redundant or irrelevant to improving federal tax compliance, as account inflows and outflows are not taxable events. Simply flooding the IRS with more data and burdening taxpayers, financial institutions, and already overwhelmed IRS service centers with more paperwork is of questionable value, especially when the IRS does not effectively use data already in its possession.”

“We appreciate the letter from Senator Thune and his colleagues, and it highlights many of the concerns we are hearing about this misguided proposal from bank customers,” said Rob Nichols, president and CEO of the American Bankers Association. “This plan would force banks to develop a costly new system to provide private financial data on almost every taxpayer to the IRS, not just those suspected of cheating on their taxes. It’s not clear the IRS could even process and protect all that information. Perhaps most troubling of all, it risks driving people away from the banking system and all the economic benefits that come from having a bank account. We urge Congress to reject this bad idea.”

“An ICBA poll conducted by Morning Consult found 67% of voters oppose requiring financial institutions to report customer account information to the IRS, while consumers are speaking with more than 400,000 messages to their members Congress in opposition,” said Rebeca Romero Rainey, president and CEO of the Independent Community Bankers of America. “The IRS reporting proposal is an invasion of consumers’ privacy, a violation of Americans’ due process, a data security risk amid the agency’s ongoing tax return leak investigation, and a threat to bipartisan efforts to reduce the unbanked population by driving more Americans out of the banking system and toward predatory lenders.

“This proposal is deeply concerning for America’s credit unions and their 120 million members,” said Jim Nussle, president and CEO of the Credit Union National Association. “Not only would the regulatory burden create an outsized impact on credit unions serving rural communities, but it raises serious privacy concerns for every consumer in the country. From the massive 2014 data breach at the Office of Personnel Management to this year’s IRS leak of federal tax returns, the federal government’s checkered history of warehousing personal data underscores the dangerous impracticality of this policy proposal.”

The letter was also signed by Sens. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Boozman (R-Ark,), Richard Burr (R-N.C.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn), John Hoeven (R- N.D.), John Kennedy (R-La.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Michael Rounds (R-S.D.), Ben Sasse (R-Neb), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.).

Full text of the letter below:

Senator Charles E. Schumer

Senate Majority Leader

United States Senate

Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Leader Schumer:

Congress is currently considering a variety of proposals to address the tax gap and improve federal tax compliance. The tax gap – the difference between taxes owed and paid – has been a stubborn problem for decades. While we should pursue bipartisan measures to reduce the tax gap and better enforce our tax laws, we write to highlight our concern about the Biden administration’s proposal to expand the reporting of private, confidential taxpayer information from financial institutions to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Though the details of the legislation being negotiated by congressional Democrats remain unclear because Republicans continue to be boxed out of the process, one of the misguided proposals embedded within President Biden’s American Families Plan would violate law-abiding taxpayers’ privacy and place onerous new reporting requirements on financial institutions. Specifically, this proposal would require banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions to report financial account information to the IRS for nearly all of their customers – including gross inflow and outflow information, and possibly transaction information.

This troubling proposal would create serious privacy concerns for American taxpayers. In addition, it would be unreasonably burdensome for financial institutions across the nation, particularly those community financial institutions serving families and small businesses across America.

Contrary to claims that this proposal would only provide a “distinct benefit” to already compliant taxpayers, this proposal would compromise the privacy of an inordinate number of law-abiding Americans whose confidential financial information would be sent by their financial institution directly to the IRS. As you know, the IRS faces approximately 1.4 billion attempted cyberattacks each year, and just a few months ago the private returns of thousands of taxpayers were obtained and leaked to the public by ProPublica – a serious information security lapse about which the agency has still not provided any useful information to Congress.

Given the IRS’ troubling record of failing to protect certain confidential taxpayer information and abusing its authority, specifically the targeting of conservative political groups, this proposal would undermine trust in the financial system and, in turn, reduce financial inclusion. The most recent FDIC survey shows that the second most common reason unbanked households lack a bank account is that they do not trust banks. Approximately one quarter of all taxpayers do not trust the IRS to protect their tax account records or to fairly enforce the tax laws. Giving the IRS access to additional confidential financial information would only compound existing mistrust and drive more people out of the financial system and away from access to regulated financial products.

This proposal also represents a radical departure from existing reporting requirements associated with national security and actual taxable events. Placing more requirements on financial institutions would not only adversely affect these institutions and their customers – who ultimately pay the price for compliance costs– but it would also inundate the IRS with layers of new paperwork and taxpayer data that is either redundant or irrelevant to improving federal tax compliance, as account inflows and outflows are not taxable events. Simply flooding the IRS with more data and burdening taxpayers, financial institutions, and already overwhelmed IRS service centers with more paperwork is of questionable value, especially when the IRS does not effectively use data already in its possession.

Furthermore, although the Biden administration has claimed the financial reporting proposal would not lead to increases in audit rates for those with income under $400,000, it has not provided any plausible reason to believe that assertion. On the contrary, past experience indicates the brunt of costs imposed on compliant taxpayers would fall on low- and middle-income households and businesses with incomes well below $400,000, not on “billionaires” and “tax cheats,” as the administration’s political messaging suggests.

For these reasons, we reiterate our strong opposition to the inclusion of these new IRS reporting requirements on financial institutions. It is a misguided and privacy-invasive proposal, and its consideration is nothing more than an attempt to find a way to pay for a fraction of this irresponsible spending bill currently under consideration.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z