Higher fuel prices and the upswing in summer driving have focused South Dakotans and officials in Washington on ways to lessen our dependence on foreign sources of energy. Biofuels are our most readily available form of homegrown renewable energy, and increased consumption and new innovations have the potential to make... Continue Reading
The federal government does not enjoy a strong track record when it comes to financial management. However, that has not stopped both the current and previous Administrations from taking unprecedented steps to intervene in private businesses. This trend not only undermines fair competition in the market, but creates an atmosphere... Continue Reading
Most people agree that fair competition between businesses that provide similar goods and services is a positive thing for consumers. Competition results in lower prices and better products and gives businesses a chance to build a good reputation in their community. Unfortunately, local businesses are facing unfair competition from the... Continue Reading
Unlike many members of Congress and federal bureaucrats, South Dakotans are not far removed from the struggles facing our state’s Tribal communities. I am in frequent contact with Tribal leaders and members across the state, and I believe that their input is vital in developing solutions to the difficult challenges... Continue Reading
In recent years, the biofuels industry has made strides in breaking our nation’s addiction to foreign oil. The production of ethanol has also generated strong demand for our crops and created many jobs in rural states such as South Dakota. Congress gave ethanol a strong vote of confidence in the... Continue Reading
Every day gives us a new opportunity to celebrate the loved ones in our lives, but Mother’s Day is a special occasion. None of us would be here without our mothers, and their love and guidance stays with us throughout our lives, even if they are no longer with us.... Continue Reading
South Dakota’s long winter is finally drawing to a close, and this month we will celebrate Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer. But before we lock the schoolhouse door and head to the picnics, swimming pools, and parades, we should pause to remember what Memorial Day is all about:... Continue Reading
The growth of the renewable fuels industry is an economic success story for South Dakota and much of rural America, and I will continue to do all I can to support this alternative energy industry. Our nation’s energy policy is at a crossroads, and biofuels should be a significant part... Continue Reading
Easter is a time to celebrate with family, and I was fortunate to be able to do so in South Dakota. With the U.S. Senate being out of session, I spent a great deal of time traveling around South Dakota and talking to people across the state. Even as many... Continue Reading
Sometimes people, myself included, forget loved ones’ birthdays or important anniversaries. History students complain about the memorization of names and dates, and come test time something always seems to slip through the cracks. Of course, some dates are not celebrated like birthdays and anniversaries, but are nonetheless remembered. For most... Continue Reading
In an effort to support individuals and families that are affected by autism, the Autism Society of America has designated April as National Autism Awareness Month. Autism is a developmental neurological disability that impacts social development and communication skills. According to a 2007 report by the Centers for Disease Control,... Continue Reading
Americans are getting a clearer picture of the Obama Administration’s budget proposal, and people across South Dakota and the nation are seeing that it unfortunately spends too much, taxes too much, and borrows too much. Increased taxation and borrowing are distressing enough, but the Administration’s plan to raid critical national... Continue Reading
