Northeast South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) addressed the Senate regarding ongoing efforts to fund the government through a short-term continuing resolution (CR). Thune stated that Republicans are advancing a CR, which he described as a routine measure to provide additional time for the Appropriations Committee to complete its work and allow for proper consideration of funding bills on the Senate floor.

In his remarks, Thune criticized Democrats, claiming they appear determined to force a government shutdown. He questioned their motives and suggested that such an action would not be supported by most Americans. Thune said, “I understand that Democrats’ far-left base is desperate to pick a fight with President Trump, but really, I don’t think Democrats are going to win the next election by shutting down the government over a short-term, clean, nonpartisan funding measure.”

Thune emphasized his commitment to regular order in the appropriations process. He noted that this approach allows both parties input on funding bills: “I made it very clear from the moment that I became the leader that I wanted to fund the government through regular order – a process that gives voice to members of both parties.” He pointed out bipartisan progress before August, citing three appropriations bills passed by wide margins—an occurrence he said had not happened since 2018.

He argued that passing a short-term CR would enable continued bipartisan work on appropriations and prevent disruption in government services: “Regular order is good for members of both parties, and it’s good for the American people. And, Mr. President, I think a lot of Democrats, as well as Republicans, know that.”

Addressing Democratic criticism of the CR as partisan, Thune responded: “Republicans have deliberately chosen to keep this CR clean to ensure that there can be no possible reason for Democrats to object to funding the government… We’re not looking at a vehicle for new Republican policies; we are looking at nothing more than a continuation of the status quo when it comes to funding the government.”

Thune challenged claims from Democratic leaders about lack of bipartisan discussions: “There have been bipartisan discussions for months! The appropriations committees have been meeting, passing and reporting bills out to the floor.” He highlighted recent legislative activity and stressed cooperation between committee members from both parties.

He also referenced past actions under Democratic majorities: “Under the Biden administration and Democrat majorities here in the Senate, there were no fewer than 13 – 13 – continuing resolutions…96 percent of the Democrats in the Senate voted for all 13.” Thune questioned what has changed now with regard to support for such measures.

The proposed CR would extend government funding through November 21st while giving lawmakers time to continue their work on longer-term spending legislation. According to Thune: “This is a short-term funding resolution, and it should be a very straightforward vote. Both sides should do what they did 13 times when they had the majority, and that is vote to keep the government open.”

He concluded by urging cooperation across party lines: “We can do that, and it’s going to be entirely up to the Senate Democrats as to whether or not we do.”