This past week, the Senate had an opportunity to pass a bipartisan amendment to repeal a burdensome tax-reporting requirement included in the recently enacted health care bill, which requires that every business submit a 1099 tax form for business transactions totaling $600 or more per year. The amendment, offered by... Continue Reading
In Philadelphia 223 years ago this week, 39 men joined together to sign the final draft of the U.S. Constitution. September 17, 1787 marked a new day for our young country and ensured freedom for both the new Democracy and its future generations. George Washington once remarked that the “Constitution... Continue Reading
We all remember where we were on that tragic Tuesday in September of 2001. It was a crisp, clear day in New York City and business was carrying on as usual. People just like you and me were working hard on a day they thought would turn out like any... Continue Reading
The shoulder pads have been fitted, the jersey numbers have been selected, and the cleats have been broken-in. After weeks of sweating it out during August practices, high school student-athletes across South Dakota are gearing up for the start of the fall sports season. When the bleachers fill up with... Continue Reading
As the end of the spring wheat harvest quickly approaches, combines continue to comb through the fields and the silos are starting to fill up. The harvest season in South Dakota is one of many reminders we have of the important role our agriculture producers play in our state’s economy.... Continue Reading
As the dog days of summer wind down, the cooler weather of fall and the start of school are just around the corner. The new academic year is drawing near and families across South Dakota will soon begin preparing their children for new classes, teachers, and friends. School supplies have... Continue Reading
August has arrived, and that means South Dakota fair season has officially begun. The end of summer will soon usher in county fairs, the State Fair, or one last camping trip or vacation for many South Dakota families. The exhibits, fair food, rides, music, races, rodeos, and games offer a... Continue Reading
Recently I was asked what the single most important thing that I, as an elected official, could do for the citizens of South Dakota. Of all the challenges our country currently faces, I believe that tackling our nation’s exploding $13 trillion debt is the top priority for people in our... Continue Reading
Mark Twain once remarked in a letter that Supreme Court justices “have the Constitution for their guidance; they have no right to any politics save the politics of rigid right and justice when they are sitting in judgment upon the great matters that come before them.” Twain’s comments illustrate and... Continue Reading
South Dakota continues to be recognized nationally as a great place to live, work, and play. Recently, the website CNNMoney.com ranked Lincoln County at the top of its list for the best places to live in the nation for job growth. From 2000 through 2009, the county experienced 67 percent... Continue Reading
President Ronald Reagan once said, “The work of volunteer groups throughout our country represents the very heart and soul of America. They have helped make this the most compassionate, generous, and humane society that ever existed on the face of this earth.” South Dakotans are known for their generous dedication... Continue Reading
Students are out of school, the weather is warm, and summer has officially begun. Many South Dakotans have planned their summer vacations and are looking forward to a little relaxation in the sun. While many across the country have to travel great distances to enjoy the outdoors, here in South... Continue Reading
