Senator John Thune Reflects on First 100 Days of Republican Control in the Senate

Senator John Thune Reflects on First 100 Days of Republican Control in the Senate

As of Saturday, the Republican majority in the U.S. Senate has reached an important milestone with the first 100 days behind us. We have made significant strides during these critical early weeks. This period marks the longest continuous session in 15 years, where the Senate has taken more votes than in any Congress since the Reagan administration.

Our achievements are notable. The Senate confirmed the president’s Cabinet at an unparalleled pace, the fastest in over two decades, despite significant opposition from Democrats. Currently, more than 50 nominees from President Trump have received confirmation, including key positions such as a new FBI director, a chairman of the Joint Chiefs, and several ambassadors assigned to vital international posts.

Legislative Actions and Initiatives

However, confirmations are just part of our agenda. We successfully passed legislation introduced by Senator Katie Britt from Alabama, titled the Laken Riley Act. This law aims to ensure that illegal immigrants who commit serious crimes against law enforcement or harm others are detained rather than released back into communities.

Additionally, we pushed through the HALT Fentanyl Act, co-sponsored by Senators Chuck Grassley from Iowa and Bill Cassidy from Louisiana. This critical legislation equips law enforcement with essential tools to combat the growing crisis surrounding fentanyl and other dangerous drugs.

Repealing Burdensome Regulations

Our efforts extend to dismantling excessive regulations implemented during the Biden era. So far, the Senate has enacted seven Congressional Review Act resolutions aimed at rolling back restrictive Biden administration rules. These actions include repealing a tax on natural gas and eliminating undue mandates affecting household appliances caught up in a climate agenda.

Long-Term Goals for Economic Relief

We have also established a foundation for a permanent extension of the tax relief enacted in 2017. In addition, we are making transformative investments in crucial areas such as border management, energy sustainability, and national security. The Senate’s contribution to these processes has been significant, and I am eager to complete the legislative finalization of these crucial bills.

Facing Democratic Opposition

It is important to highlight that our list of accomplishments could have been even longer without the constant filibustering from Democrats. The party, which only months ago sought to undermine the filibuster—a Senate rule intended to safeguard the foundational principles laid out by the Founders—now repeatedly relies on it to obstruct progress.

Democrats have successfully halted legislation aimed at keeping transgender women out of women’s sports, ensuring protections for babies born alive after failed abortions, and imposing sanctions against the International Criminal Court as it pursues charges against Israeli leaders and has a history of targeting American citizens.

Looking Ahead: A Commitment to the American People

Despite our significant successes, much work remains to be accomplished. We will continue to accelerate our efforts. Key appropriations bills await consideration, and our mission to overturn additional unnecessary regulations continues. We are focused on finalizing the comprehensive bills that deliver on our pledges to enhance taxes, strengthen border security, bolster our military, promote American energy production, and steer the nation toward a more sustainable fiscal direction.

Other nominations linger ahead, and the Senate is committed to maintaining its dynamic pace. Should Democrats decide to obstruct these nominees, we will not be deterred. Our determination will lead to longer sessions, with late nights and weekends if necessary. My message to my Democratic colleagues remains clear: We can proceed smoothly or face obstacles, but we will ensure these confirmations happen.

An Ongoing Journey of Progress

The past 100 days in the United States Senate have been eventful, and I anticipate delivering even more results for the American populace. As Senate Republicans, along with our counterparts in the House and the White House, continue collaborating to advance our common agenda, our commitment to the American people stands firm.