As we reflect on the highs and lows of 2013, we begin to chart course for the start of a new year. Theodore Roosevelt once said, “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” While the partisan divides of Washington remain a barrier to stimulating the lagging... Continue Reading
South Dakota’s Ellsworth Air Force Base’s 28th Bomb Wing is home to two of the three combat squadrons operating the B-1B strategic bomber. Of the three aircraft that currently comprise our bomber fleet, the B-1B has the highest payload, the fastest maximum speed, and operates at the lowest cost per... Continue Reading
Like many South Dakotans, our family always enjoys looking back at many of our Thune Family Christmas cards from years past. While our daughters like to poke fun at the hairstyles and outfits of days gone by, the best part of looking through the annual Christmas cards is the opportunity... Continue Reading
Our increasingly mobile workforce has created opportunities for businesses to grow and expand throughout the nation. Employees can begin their day on one side of the country, travel several states away and still make it back home in time for dinner. Temporary work assignments for people whose jobs require them... Continue Reading
Labor unions were among the biggest supporters of ObamaCare when the bill was being debated in 2010. After endorsing the bill and working fervently to pass the legislation, unions heralded the passage of the president’s signature law as monumental. Despite their support for the bill, the unions are now beginning... Continue Reading
Throughout the year, communities across South Dakota rely on the generosity of their local businesses. Whether asked to sponsor the local softball team, contribute to the community fireworks show, or support the homecoming parade, we expect local businesses to rise to the occasion and support developments, projects, and student organizations.... Continue Reading
When I was young, I remember my mother offering some great words of wisdom when I would complain about things that didn’t go my way or vent my frustration about what didn’t seem fair. She would listen patiently and say, “Remember to count your blessings.” It was her way of... Continue Reading
Nothing is more central to the fabric of American society than the family. It is the glue that binds our communities and raises healthy children into successful adults. While each family looks a little different, the bonds of love, support, trust, and kindness are easy to spot in families throughout... Continue Reading
Among my favorite opportunities as U.S. Senator, is the privilege to welcome honor flights from South Dakota to Washington, D.C., to visit the war memorials on the national mall. I know first-hand the sacrifice made by our nation’s veterans because my own father, Harold, is a decorated Navy pilot who... Continue Reading
This month, hundreds of thousands of families throughout the country began receiving notices that their current health insurance coverage would be canceled. Despite the president’s repeated promise during the 2009 debate on health care, “If you like the plan you have, you can keep it,” families throughout the nation are... Continue Reading
There is nothing like a crisp fall day in South Dakota for enjoying one of our great state traditions, pheasant hunting. Families throughout South Dakota dust off their hunting gear, organize weekend hunts, and invite out-of-town family and friends into their homes for a taste of this long-standing sporting tradition.... Continue Reading
Having grown up in Murdo, I am no stranger to the independent and resilient nature of our friends and neighbors living in western South Dakota. And when times are tough or tragedies occur they are the first ones on the scene ready to help those in need. The first weekend... Continue Reading
