Rushmore State News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) recently spoke on the Senate floor about his activities during the state work period, highlighting time spent traveling across South Dakota and meeting with constituents.

Thune noted that he and other senators used the break to visit their states, discuss ongoing legislative efforts, and listen to local concerns. He said, “Mr. President, over the last few weeks, we’ve all had a chance, my colleagues and I, to spend extra time in our states, talking to our constituents, and reporting back on what we’ve been doing for the American people here in Washington.”

Thune outlined several priorities Republicans have focused on during this period. These include permanent tax relief for working families, security at the southern border, and support for farmers and ranchers. He stated, “And Republicans have a lot of good news to share. Among the things we’ve already delivered for the American people is permanent tax relief for working families. Real security at our southern border. Critical support to America’s farmers and ranchers. And we’re just getting started.”

During his travels in South Dakota, Thune visited several fairs including those in Turner County, Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and Huron. He was joined by Senator Hoeven at the Brown County Fair in Aberdeen for discussions on agricultural policy.

He described meetings with farmers who are facing high input costs and low commodity prices despite strong crop yields. The recent legislative package referred to as the “One Big Beautiful Bill” included adjustments intended to better align commodity programs with market conditions.

Thune also attended Dakotafest in Mitchell alongside Senator Rounds and Congressman Johnson for an agriculture policy forum organized by the Farm Bureau.

In addition to agriculture-related events, Thune visited small towns such as Hoven and Mobridge where he met with small business owners at local establishments including banks, salons, coffee shops, grocery stores, and restaurants.

He emphasized that small businesses play a vital role in local communities: “Small businesses aren’t always easy to run, but they’re the backbone of our communities.” Thune also highlighted provisions from recent legislation that aim to help these businesses by providing permanent tax relief and incentives like bonus depreciation.

The senator took time during his visits to thank first responders from Aberdeen Fire Rescue as well as law enforcement officers from Rapid City Police Department and Pennington County Sheriff’s Office.

Reflecting on his schedule during the recess period he said: “Mr. President, it’s been a busy few weeks back home in South Dakota – and for all my colleagues as they moved across their states these last few weeks.”

Thune concluded by expressing optimism about upcoming work in Washington: “We’re setting our country up for a stronger and more prosperous future. And I can’t wait to see the benefits for my state of South Dakota and for our entire country.”