Leader John Thune

A lot of hard work has gone into the Senate farm bill, and reporting the bill out of committee is an important step that pushes us closer to getting this critical legislation to the president’s desk. While I’m frustrated by Democrats’ lack of support, I’m proud that Republicans united to advance the farm bill so we can build on the historic investments we enacted in the Working Families Tax Cuts and deliver long-overdue policy updates for South Dakota’s farmers and ranchers.   Senate Republicans worked in good faith with Democrats to negotiate a farm bill that includes year-round E15 and more than 100 bipartisan bills to support rural America, and Democrats’ decision to put partisan politics ahead of producers and vote against the farm bill yet again is simply inexcusable. It’s critical that Congress passes this legislation to give farmers and ranchers the certainty they need, and I hope Democrats will come to their senses and put politics aside so we can get the farm bill across the finish line for America’s producers.

Over the last two years, Senate Republicans have put up a strong record of accomplishment that’s created safer streets, more money in Americans’ pockets, and new opportunities for families and businesses to get ahead. After fighting Democrat obstruction at every turn, we prevented the largest tax hike in American history, secured our border in an unprecedented way, confirmed the president’s Cabinet at the fastest pace in two decades, and put strong conservative judges on benches across the country faster than we have since the Reagan administration. I’m proud of our team and everything we’ve done for the American people, and I’m looking forward to the important work we have in front of us over the next few months. As we head into 2027, Senate Republicans will not stand idly by as the far-left, socialist wing of the Democrat Party attempts to unwind everything we’ve done. Thankfully, we still have President Trump in the White House, and we’ll work with him to stop the worst impulses of Democrat extremism. We cannot let their fringe positions become the mainstream.

Hit the neighborhood with a few superheroes and some feline friends. Always a treat hanging with the grandkids on Halloween. 🎃

Enjoyed visiting Aberdeen Central High School to tour the ATEC building and meet with students.

Honored to be a part of today’s 452nd Ordnance Company Army Reserve Departure Ceremony in Aberdeen. It’s great to see brave South Dakotans answering the call to serve.

Good discussion with Yankton business and community leaders this afternoon.

Enjoyed touring Ehresmann Engineering in Yankton today.

Great to be at @GoJacksFB’s Hobo Day game against Murray State. Go Jacks! 🏈

Great to stop by Platte Enterprise and Dakota’s Best Seed today.

Great to be on hand for the groundbreaking for the new Platte-Winner Bridge.

Had a chance to tour Wagner Community School today. Thanks to the teachers and staff for showing me around.

Honored to be part of today’s activation ceremony for the South Dakota National Guard's 155th Engineer Company. Proud to see so many brave South Dakotans answering the call to serve.

Another SD pheasant opener in the books. Perfect day to be back home with some good friends taking in one of South Dakota’s great annual traditions. 😎 #HiFromSD

The South Dakota law enforcement community suffered a great loss today. Kimberley and my thoughts and prayers are with Deputy Frank’s loved ones and colleagues during this extremely difficult time.

Agriculture is the lifeblood of South Dakota. Today and every day, we recognize the hard work and importance of our nation’s farmers.  Through Republicans’ Working Families @TaxCuts, we delivered an improved farm safety net, and we can continue to build on that by passing the farm bill.