U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) said on March 17 that Democrats are prioritizing political interests over public safety and national security by continuing the shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security. Thune made these remarks during a speech on the Senate floor, marking the 32nd day of the ongoing shutdown.
The issue is significant as it affects federal law enforcement operations and impacts workers such as Transportation Security Administration agents, who have been working without pay. Thune said, “Mr. President, today is day 32 of Democrats’ shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security.” He criticized Democrats for blocking a funding bill that included reforms to immigration enforcement and additional oversight measures.
Thune argued that despite repeated offers from the White House to negotiate reforms, Democrats delayed their response and failed to compromise. He said, “Eighteen days, Mr. President – 18 days – for Democrats to even bother replying!” According to Thune, partial funding proposals from Democrats would leave some agencies unfunded and harm law enforcement efforts.
He highlighted the impact on TSA agents, noting reports that hundreds have quit since the start of this and previous shutdowns. Quoting a South Dakota TSA agent, Thune said, “It is very hard to live without getting paid … I do not know how long I can keep doing this.” He also referenced recent cyberattacks and attempted terrorist incidents as evidence that national security risks are heightened during this period.
Thune represents South Dakota in the U.S. Senate and focuses on issues such as agriculture, energy, economic development, community outreach, and support for veterans according to his official website. He serves as Senate Republican Whip and holds committee positions in Finance; Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry; and Commerce, Science and Transportation according to his official website.
Concluding his remarks on the Senate floor, Thune said Republicans are ready to work with Democrats when they are prepared to end what he described as political games: “Republicans are at the table and ready to work whenever Democrats are done playing.”
