Senator John Thune on Government Funding, Election Integrity, and Senate Strategy

Government Funding Accomplishments

• 🏛️ 96% of the federal government is now funded following the House's passage of five appropriation bills.
• ✅ This represents a good win for the appropriations process, allowing more member participation than in past closed-door negotiations.
• ⚠️ The remaining 4% of the government, specifically DHS, is operating on a two-week continuing resolution which is considered too short to resolve issues.

DHS Funding and Immigration Concerns

• 🛂 Discussions on DHS funding will focus on preventing measures that make it harder to deport and detain dangerous illegal aliens.
• 👮 The goal is to ensure law enforcement officers are safe and can effectively function to reduce tumult in cities.

SAVE Act and Election Integrity

• 🗳️ Senator Thune confirms there will be a vote on the SAVE Act at some point, potentially in the context of the DHS bill.
• 🇺🇸 Regarding President Trump's comments on nationalizing elections, Thune clarifies that Trump supports the SAVE Act, which ensures only citizens vote in elections.
• ❓ Thune is unaware of Tulsi Gabbard's presence in Fulton County and suggests she should address questions about it.

Senate Strategy and Midterm Elections

• ⏳ The Senate has limited floor time and numerous legislative items to address, including housing, market structure, permitting reform, farm, highway, and Russia sanctions bills.
• 🗣️ A discussion will occur within the conference regarding the implications of triggering a talking filibuster, which requires significant effort and cooperation.
• 📈 Republicans feel good about their Senate races heading into the midterms, despite Democrats targeting incumbents and having opportunities in certain states.
• 💡 Thune emphasizes the need to improve the delivery of their message and highlight their record of accomplishment, such as the working families tax cuts.