Many of us spend the days after Christmas reflecting on the year that has passed and looking toward the year that is to come. As the start of 2009 will bring the start of a new session of Congress, I am looking forward to building on the successes of 2008.... Continue Reading
During the past year we have seen the effect that high energy costs can have on our economy and our daily lives. While gas prices have retreated significantly from their record highs this summer, the need to utilize alternative sources of energy is still great, both for fueling our vehicles... Continue Reading
Christmas is always a special time of year, but in a year when many in South Dakota and across the nation are feeling the uncertainty of the times, I hope that Christmas serves as a chance for families to gather and be strengthened by each other in preparation for the... Continue Reading
Agriculture is the largest sector of the South Dakota economy, and ranching is one of the most significant components of agricultural production in our state. There is a proud ranching and farming tradition in South Dakota that is as integral to our culture as it is to our economy, and... Continue Reading
With the holiday season in full swing, many of us will be traveling to celebrate the season with family and friends. In South Dakota, this often means many miles in the car to be with family and loved ones. While the recent drop in energy prices is welcome news for... Continue Reading
All holidays give us a special opportunity to spend time with family and friends, but Thanksgiving in many ways is special. While we take time to give thanks for our good fortune, we should also remember those people who bring joy into our lives. It is impossible, however, to count... Continue Reading
The times when the U.S. Senate is out of session give me the opportunity to travel extensively in the state and gather valuable input from South Dakotans regarding their views on various matters. The time I have spent in South Dakota in October and November has been particularly informative and... Continue Reading
November is the month when Americans look back and remember all of the blessings of the year. It is also the month when we set aside a day to celebrate those who have given so much in defense of our country: our military veterans. Upon reflection, we quickly realize that... Continue Reading
We recognize heroes in all shapes and sizes from all walks of life, but there are also heroes who garner less attention than others. Some heroes who too often get overlooked are those families who open their hearts and homes to children through adoption. November is National Adoption Month, and... Continue Reading
South Dakota towns, both large and small, are great places to live, to work, and to raise families. Like towns and cities everywhere, however, there are problems that endanger lives and can tear at the fabric of our communities. South Dakota has a tragically high rate of methamphetamine abuse, and... Continue Reading
As I traveled throughout South Dakota during the month of October, I’ve had the privilege of visiting several schools to speak with students of all ages and their teachers. Wherever I go, I am impressed by the dedication our of state’s teachers and administrators. My father was a teacher and... Continue Reading
American history is full of colorful examples of public resentment of taxes. The Boston Tea Party is perhaps the most famous display of taxpayer outrage, and a revolt against whiskey taxes nearly tore our young nation apart during the presidency of George Washington. This is not a phenomenon unique to... Continue Reading
