Recent Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. —  Senator John Thune has been selected to serve as the Ranking Republican Member of the Senate Finance Committee's International Trade, Customs, and Global Competitiveness Subcommittee. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.) and Ranking Member Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) established the Committee's subcommittees and membership for the 112th Congressional session and the full committee approved Thune's selection this morning by a voice vote.

"It is an honor to be selected as the Ranking Member of the International Trade, Customs, and Global Competitiveness Subcommittee," said Thune. "With the Korea, Colombia, and Panama free trade agreements still awaiting Presidential action, I look forward to helping lead Senate efforts in getting these agreements passed. Ensuring the passage of these agreements is crucial to our country's economic success and competitiveness.

"Over 20 percent of South Dakota's corn, soybean, and cattle production is exported to foreign markets. The United States must pursue new free and fair trade agreements that keep America's farmers and ranchers competitive in the global marketplace."

The Subcommittee on International Trade, Customs, and Global Competitiveness is chaired by Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and has jurisdiction over all taxation and revenue-generating measures that involve international trade, customs, and global competitiveness.

Thune will also serve on the Taxation and IRS Oversight Subcommittee and the Energy, Natural Resources, and Infrastructure Subcommittee.