The current Republican Senate, under the leadership of John Thune, is facing scrutiny for its perceived failure to uphold its constitutional duties. According to Ira Shapiro, the Senate has betrayed the country by allowing the usurpation of congressional powers and confirming unqualified nominees. This inaction is seen as a continuation of the first Trump-era Senate, which Shapiro previously described as a catastrophic failure. While acknowledging some instances of resistance, the article suggests that fear and intimidation, particularly stemming from Trump’s influence, are major factors in the Senate’s behavior. Despite the challenges, the actions of Indiana state legislators serve as a reminder of what it looks like when principles are upheld.
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Senate Majority Leader John Thune supports President-elect Trump’s new Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, believing it will create a leaner, more efficient federal government. This initiative aims to cut waste, reduce regulations, and potentially relocate agencies outside Washington D.C., a move Thune supports, citing low in-person work rates among federal employees. However, concerns have been raised by the American Federation of Government Employees about potential cuts to vital social programs resulting from the initiative and proposed tax reductions. Thune also indicated openness to enabling Trump to utilize recess appointment authority to bypass Senate confirmation for certain nominees.
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South Dakota Senator John Thune has been elected as the new Senate Republican leader, succeeding Mitch McConnell after 18 years. Thune, who served as the current minority whip, won a secret ballot election against Florida Senator Rick Scott and Texas Senator John Cornyn, securing the leadership role for the next two years. While Scott, backed by several prominent Trump supporters, was seen as a more hard-line conservative, Thune’s victory signals a preference for a seasoned party leader with close ties to the Republican establishment. As Senate majority leader, Thune will guide the Republican agenda in the chamber, influencing legislative business, confirming presidential appointments, and serving as the party’s chief spokesperson.
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John Q. Hosedrinker