After being elected by my colleagues to serve as the Chairman of the Senate Republican Conference at the end of last year, I officially assumed the role and responsibilities of the Chairmanship on January 26th. In this new position, I will help lead our Conference’s efforts in communicating our positive... Continue Reading
While home in South Dakota during Congress’ winter work period, I traveled to several towns and held a series of six town hall meetings. These listening sessions were an opportunity for me to give an update on my work in the Senate and to hear South Dakotans’ thoughts on important... Continue Reading
January 20, 2012, marks the third anniversary of President Barack Obama’s inauguration. Over the past three years, Americans have experienced a difficult economic situation, which has only been made worse by the policies of the president and his administration. The numbers paint a clear picture of the economic reality that... Continue Reading
The South Dakota legislative session is upon us and legislators face a full plate of important issues that must be addressed. While new challenges are present at the start of every legislative session, perhaps the most important task the legislature must accomplish is balancing the state’s budget. South Dakota is... Continue Reading
The holiday season is upon us, and 2012 is right around the corner bringing new opportunities and challenges for our country. We have the chance in the coming year to show ourselves and the world that the American spirit remains unbreakable. Our nation faces high unemployment, a soaring federal debt,... Continue Reading
Fourteen years ago, I was a freshman member of the U.S. House of Representatives when my Republican colleagues on the other side of the Capitol fell just one vote shy of passing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution. This was a disappointing moment for Congress and a missed opportunity... Continue Reading
In 2005, the European Union (E.U.) put in place an Emissions Trading System which, beginning in 2012, will include new taxes on all international flights, including flights between the United States and the European Union. Recently, I introduced the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme Prohibition Act of 2011 to prevent... Continue Reading
After nearly three years of gathering input, holding public meetings, and an extensive review, the U.S. State Department recently issued a Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Keystone XL pipeline that would run from Canada to the U.S. Gulf Coast. Despite this lengthy and thorough review and the Final... Continue Reading
December is upon us and the winter weather has arrived. As the temperatures dip, we are reminded that many will go without warm clothing and hot meals this winter. Churches, schools, and countless non-profits throughout South Dakota organize holiday collections for those in our state who have fallen on tough... Continue Reading
This past year has been particularly tough on many South Dakotans. From historic flooding along the Missouri River and throughout the state that damaged homes and businesses, to prairie fires that destroyed acres and livelihoods, to economic uncertainty that has taken a toll on businesses and families’ bank accounts, to... Continue Reading
Thousands of generous families throughout South Dakota have lovingly and generously opened their hearts to adopt children without homes. These families often endure large expenses, inconveniences, and even heartache, all in order to provide a loving home for children who may otherwise have little hope. I admire these families and... Continue Reading
For generation after generation, South Dakotans have proudly answered the call of duty and served our country with honor and distinction. The service numbers for our state are astonishing to say the least. Approximately 32,000 South Dakotans served in World War I, 65,000 served in World War II, 26,000 in... Continue Reading
