The debate over how to enact needed reform for our nation’s health care system has been the subject of much attention around the country for months. Members of both the House of Representatives and the Senate have offered various health care reform bills, and numerous proposals have been analyzed by... Continue Reading
The fact that paying some taxes is necessary does not make writing the check any easier for most of us. South Dakotans work hard for their money, and I believe that they should be able to keep as much of it as possible. The reality is, however, that the federal... Continue Reading
It seems as though every day we become more aware of the changes that have been brought about by technology. Through the Internet and other mediums of communication, a person in South Dakota can connect with someone in South Korea more quickly and more easily than ever before. As technology... Continue Reading
At the end of every year we take time to be especially mindful of all of the blessings in our lives. I, like many South Dakotans, count my family as the greatest blessing I enjoy. There are many families in South Dakota that have another great blessing: adopted children. November... Continue Reading
As the end of another year approaches, we once again gather with family and friends to remember all we have in our lives for which we are thankful. Before the turkey is carved, we should all take stock of the year that has passed and reflect on the things that... Continue Reading
When I return to South Dakota on most weekends, I frequently hear from constituents about their concerns with increased government spending and the unprecedented level of intervention from the federal government the private sector. I share many of their concerns, particularly when it comes to the fact that this degree... Continue Reading
There are few South Dakotans who do not have a friend of family member who is a veteran of our Armed Forces. This Veterans Day, South Dakotans will show their gratitude for those loved ones who served and remember especially those who gave their lives in defense of our freedom.... Continue Reading
A year ago our country was in the midst of a serious crisis. There was a very real danger credit markets would freeze and the economy would grind to a halt, affecting families and businesses across South Dakota and the country. Faced with this threat, Congress passed the Troubled Asset... Continue Reading
When I visit communities throughout our state, I am always proud of the attention that South Dakotans pay to the national issues that are being debated in Congress. Similarly, the letters, phone calls, and emails to my office show that South Dakotans are very engaged in the discussion about the... Continue Reading
Fall in South Dakota is notable for many reasons, not the least of which is the dropping temperature and the first dustings of snow in the Black Hills. Of course, fall in South Dakota also means the start of pheasant hunting season, one of our state’s favorite pastimes and a... Continue Reading
A year ago our country was in the midst of a serious crisis, with large financial institutions teetering on the edge of bankruptcy. There was a very real danger credit markets would freeze and the economy would grind to a halt. Faced with that threat, Congress passed the Troubled Asset... Continue Reading
During my many conversations at town hall meetings and coffee shops in recent months, I have heard concerns from South Dakotans about the potential costs of Congress creating a host of new government programs, including the creation of a cap and trade program for the regulation of greenhouse gases. The... Continue Reading
