Senate Republican Leader John Thune on Democratic Obstruction of Trump Nominees and Appropriations

Unprecedented Obstruction of Nominees

• 🎯 Democrats are accused of unprecedented obstruction, delay, and blocking of President Trump's nominees.
• ⏳ As of this date in 2021, President Biden had 46 nominees confirmed, while President Trump had zero confirmed by voice vote or unanimous consent.
• 🚧 Even bipartisan nominees receiving significant floor votes are reportedly being blocked and delayed by Democrats.
• 🏛️ These tactics are described as dilatory, designed to obstruct the President and his agenda, preventing individuals from filling important government positions.

Precedent and Consequences

• ⚠️ Senator Thune warns that Democrats are setting a dangerous precedent that will come back to haunt them, referring to it as "Trump derangement syndrome on steroids."
• ⚖️ He suggests that the far-left of the Democratic caucus is controlling leadership, preventing even bipartisan nominees from being confirmed.
• ⏳ If this practice continues, Republicans will continue to grind through nominations, potentially leading to prolonged Senate sessions.

Appropriations and Government Funding

• 🗓️ There is a strong interest in avoiding a government shutdown at the end of September when the fiscal year ends.
• 🤝 Cooperation from Democrats is deemed necessary for a government funding agreement.
• 💰 Republicans are focused on fiscal sustainability, finding savings, and restraining spending to address the national debt and deficit.
• 🚫 If Democrats use any administration suggestion as a cover for not passing appropriations bills or for a shutdown, they will be held responsible.

Gaza Humanitarian Aid and Farm Bill

• ❤️ Senator Thune shares the President's view on the need to help alleviate suffering in Gaza, but notes the challenge of Hamas intercepting aid.
• 🕊️ He emphasizes the desire for a peaceful solution, the freeing of hostages, and the end of Hamas's rule.
• 🌾 Regarding the Farm Bill, significant policy elements like safety net programs, reference prices, risk management, conservation, and disaster policy were addressed in a previous bill.
• ⏳ However, completing the remaining aspects of the Farm Bill is difficult due to the extensive time spent on nominations.