John Thune
Coverage of John Thune in the Nexus archive.
- Trump urged to stop targeting fellow Republicans as GOP fights to keep majority
Some Senate Republicans worry that focusing on passing the SAVE America Act is not effectively ensuring a Republican majority in the Senate before November. John Thune suggested that the GOP should instead emphasize why electing more Republicans is necessary to prevent Democrats from gaining control and facilitating actions like the SAVE America Act. This strategic disagreement has caused internal animosity among Republicans regarding legislative messaging.
- Trump urged to stop targeting fellow Republicans as GOP fights to keep majority
Some Senate Republicans worry that Donald Trump is not making a strong enough case for the need for more Republicans in the upper chamber as the balance of power approaches November. The SAVE America Act has caused internal GOP animosity and distraction, leading some leaders to suggest shifting messaging from passing the bill to arguing why Democrats are out of step with the American people. This shift aims to combat private disagreements among Republicans about the failure to pass the legislation.
- GOP worries time running out on Trump’s agenda with Congress
The Senate's upcoming five-week recess presents significant political challenges, necessitating a rush to advance Trump's agenda before Republicans potentially lose complete control of Congress. Consequently, Trump has increased pressure on Senate Majority Leader John Thune to move forward with key items.
- Inside the Senate's chaotic all-nighter that left Trump's SAVE America Act on the shelf
During a chaotic Senate session, efforts to pass the SAVE America Act ultimately failed despite strong promises from proponents like Sen. Mike Lee. Attempts also faltered regarding major budget blueprints and reconciliation packages. Other legislative topics addressed during the night included a massive college sports bill related to name, image and likeness (NIL).
- Inside the Senate's chaotic all-nighter that left Trump's SAVE America Act on the shelf
During a chaotic all-night session in the Senate, efforts to pass the SAVE America Act stalled despite major promises and attempts by Sen. Mike Lee to force an objection vote. Lawmakers were unable to get key legislation through, and plans involving budget blueprints or reconciliation packages for the act faced slowdowns. Another issue discussed during the night was a massive college sports bill related to NIL.
- GOP senators rally behind 9/11 families in push to ban Mamdani from anniversary ceremony: 'He's a disgrace'
Republican senators are backing a petition from 9/11 victim families demanding that Mayor Zohran Mamdani be banned from attending the 25th anniversary remembrance ceremony at Ground Zero. The complaint focuses on claims regarding Mamdani's alleged ties to Islamic extremism, his views on America's place in the world, and accusations of supporting Hamas. Several GOP lawmakers criticized him for these comments during interviews.
- GOP senators rally behind 9/11 families in push to ban Mamdani from anniversary ceremony: 'He's a disgrace'
Families of 9/11 victims have launched a petition calling for New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to be excluded from the Ground Zero anniversary remembrance ceremony. Republican senators supported this effort, citing various concerns regarding Mamdani’s statements and alleged associations with Islamic extremism. Sen. Tim Sheehy accused Mamdani of platforming Islamic extremism and openly supporting Hamas.
- GOP senators rally behind Thune in response to Trump jabs at leader
Senate Republicans are rallying behind Senate Majority Leader John Thune after President Trump declined to support the GOP leader serving another term following the midterm election. Many Republican senators stated they will offer full support to Thune, even if Trump backs a challenger due to the Senate leader’s refusal to abolish the filibuster.
- Capitol agenda: Republicans brace for Trump’s wrath
Senators delayed votes on a framework for an election security bill until at least September. Despite efforts by Republicans to satisfy Donald Trump through methods like delaying votes or proposing simpler bills such as a voter ID measure, some members remain doubtful of these strategies' effectiveness. Critics worry that the persistent focus on legislation lacking sufficient support may be causing division rather than uniting the party.
- Trump pumps brakes on Senate budget plan, delaying GOP SAVE America push
The passage of the SAVE America Act was delayed, as lawmakers departed before completing its effort. A related priority, the budget reconciliation process aiming to pass the act, was paused after Trump intervened, suggesting a path forward involves working diligently through August into September to draft an improved bill.
- Trump pumps brakes on Senate budget plan, delaying GOP SAVE America push
Senate Republicans left Washington without passing the SAVE America Act, delaying its status until next month. A vote on a $150 billion budget blueprint by Sen. Ron Johnson was paused after Trump intervened over concerns about its outcome. Republicans have instead agreed that they will work diligently through August into September to create an improved budget reconciliation bill.
- Senators head for the exits without meeting Trump’s demands for voting bill
Senators ended a standoff regarding President Donald Trump’s demands to pass a strict proof-of-citizenship voting bill, known as the SAVE America Act. While senators advanced other priorities, such as funding the government until December and passing a sanctions package for Ukraine, the voting bill was not among them. Republican senators planned an alternative approach: trying to approve elements of the vote law through a broader GOP budget package upon returning in September.
- Senators head for the exits without meeting Trump's demands for voting bill
Senators ended a standoff over Donald Trump's demands to pass a strict proof-of-citizenship voting bill. Though the SAVE America Act was not advanced, Republican senators discussed linking elements of the voting bill to a broader GOP budget package for funding the Iran war and replenishing the Pentagon. During the session, senators also passed a Russian sanctions package and approved government funding into December.
- Senators head for the exits without meeting Trump's demands for voting bill
Senators ended a standoff without passing President Donald Trump's demanded voting bill; instead, Republican senators spoke of approving elements as part of a broader GOP budget package to fund the Iran war and replenish the Pentagon. While Trump continued pressuring for the SAVE America Act and changes to filibuster rules, Senate Majority Leader John Thune successfully passed other priorities, including confirming an attorney general and passing a sanctions package against Russia.
- Schumer caves, hands Republicans shutdown win after months of uncertainty
The Senate advanced a solution to avert a government shutdown through a continuing resolution, requiring Democrats to relenter on key funding issues. While this averts an immediate crisis, negotiations over fully funding the government will continue in the House of Representatives. The process was marked by months of political uncertainty and strategic maneuvering.
- Schumer caves, hands Republicans shutdown win after months of uncertainty
The Senate advanced a continuing resolution (CR) to avert a government shutdown that was expected to last into early December. Democratic Leader Schumer relented, staying true to a bargain with Republicans to keep the government funded past Election Night. However, the legislative battle for funding will continue in the House.
- Senate approves funding bill to avoid a shutdown before the election
The Senate approved a short-term measure to fund federal agencies until early December, preventing a government shutdown during campaign season. The funding fix was unusual in its late timing but received broad bipartisan support. Though the bill generally maintains current funding levels, it includes provisions restricting transfers to the Border Patrol and delaying a national ban on intoxicating hemp products.
- Senate approves funding bill to avoid a shutdown before the election
The Senate approved a short-term funding measure through December 11 to prevent a government shutdown during election season. Although passing early and with broad bipartisan support, the bill includes exceptions negotiated by senators, including language that prohibits transferring money to the Border Patrol. Furthermore, the legislation delayed a national ban on intoxicating hemp products.
- Senate approves funding bill to avoid a shutdown before the election
The Senate approved a short-term funding measure into early December to avoid a government shutdown before the election. While passing the bill, Democrats successfully secured language rejecting money transfers to the Border Patrol and funds for a battleship project. The legislation also includes delaying a national ban on intoxicating hemp products, a decision criticized by some Republicans citing public health concerns.
- Thune, Trump, Senate conservatives reach deal to set aside budget, SAVE America Act impasse
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, President Trump, and Senate conservatives reached a deal to set aside a vote on a budget resolution. The agreement also defers action on much of the SAVE America Act until after the August recess, which settled a fight among Senate Republicans.
- Senate delays Clarity Act vote until after August recess, Thune confirms
Senate Majority Leader John Thune confirmed to The Block that the Clarity Act vote has been delayed until after the August recess. He stated that they are getting the act queued up first thing when they return.
- US Senate pushes CLARITY Act vote to September: Report
The US Senate is reportedly delaying a vote on the CLARITY Act until September. John Thune, the Senate Majority Leader, reportedly confirmed that the chamber was pushing the vote to this later date.
- Thune sets up votes on sanctions and nominees as final summer sprint takes shape
The Senate plans to hold multiple votes before departing for recess, including passing a stopgap funding bill and a long-stalled Russia sanctions bill. Leadership aims to confirm dozens of nominees and conduct initial votes on a budget blueprint and the SAVE America Act. However, the agenda faces hurdles due to potential objections or failure to reach simple majority thresholds.
- GOP infighting erupts as Thune warns of legislative ‘trainwreck’
Internal squabbles erupted among Senate Republicans Wednesday, prompting Majority Leader John Thune to warn of a potential legislative “train wreck.” The conflict involved GOP senators battling each other and the White House over various issues, including a clash between Senate Budget Committee Chair Ron Johnson and the Senate Appropriations Committee.
- Senate’s summer pileup is threatening a quick recess escape
The Senate faces delays in adjourning for a five-week recess due to a backlog of legislation, stalled bills, and pressure from President Donald Trump and conservatives to advance a GOP election bill. Republican leaders, including Majority Leader John Thune, are working toward an exit strategy involving a vote on the SAVE America Act, though progress on funding and nomination issues remains uncertain.
- White House Now Reviewing Crypto Clarity Act Ethics Text Ahead of August Deadline: Report
The White House is reviewing bipartisan ethics language for the Crypto Clarity Act as lawmakers race against an August deadline. Senator Thom Tillis confirmed ongoing discussions with the White House, while Senate Majority Leader John Thune delayed a cloture vote on the bill, narrowing the window for passage before a five-week recess.
- Thune tees up action on college sports bill
Senate Majority Leader John Thune initiated action on bipartisan college sports legislation, the Protect College Sports Act, led by Sens. Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell. The bill, which addresses athlete payments and conference expansion, gained support after the Southeastern and Big Ten conferences dropped opposition following a compromise on athlete payment caps. A vote could occur as soon as Friday, with optimism for securing over 60 Senate votes.
- Trump whips Senate votes for permanent daylight saving time
President Donald Trump urged Republican senators to support making daylight saving time permanent, as the bill faces opposition in the Senate despite passing the House. Some GOP senators, including John Thune and Tom Cotton, oppose the change due to concerns over agriculture and public safety, while Florida lawmakers back it for economic benefits.
- Thune on Max Miller allegations: ‘It’s a House matter. It’s a family issue too’
Senate Majority Leader John Thune said the controversy involving Rep. Max Miller is an issue for the House and Ohio voters, as well as a family matter. Thune described the situation as 'sad and unfortunate' but declined to offer further comments.
- John Thune signals he’ll pursue a 2028 Senate run. Some aren’t sure he’ll follow through.
John Thune indicates he will seek reelection in 2028 but leaves room for change amid tensions with President Donald Trump and GOP speculation. Some Republicans question his commitment, citing political challenges and Trump's influence.
- Trump keeps calling Thune despite public fight over SAVE America Act
President Donald Trump and Senate Majority Leader John Thune continue to communicate despite public disagreements over the stalled SAVE America Act. Thune acknowledges tensions but emphasizes their shared goal to pass the bill, citing procedural challenges in the Senate.
- Trump keeps calling Thune despite public fight over SAVE America Act
President Donald Trump and Senate Majority Leader John Thune maintain communication despite public disagreements over the stalled SAVE America Act. Thune acknowledges their differences but emphasizes shared goals, noting procedural challenges in the Senate and Democratic opposition to the bill. The legislation remains a priority for Trump and Republicans, though passing it faces significant hurdles.
- Republicans Continue To Blame Democrats Over Stalled Crypto Clarity Act
Republicans criticize Democrats for delaying the Crypto Clarity Act, which aims to establish a regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies. Lawmakers have two days to vote on the bill before Senate recess, with bipartisan support but ongoing disputes over wording. The updated bill addresses ethics concerns and has backing from financial institutions.
- Capitol agenda: Decision day for Senate GOP budget
Senate Republicans face uncertainty over advancing a budget blueprint this week amid competing priorities and internal divisions. Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated possible delays in legislative tasks, while Budget Chair Ron Johnson remained noncommittal about releasing a budget resolution. GOP senators also debate passing the SAVE America Act and address allegations against Rep. Max Miller.
- Budget Republicans to meet
Senate Budget Committee Republicans will meet to discuss advancing a fiscal blueprint for a new party-line spending bill. Chair Ron Johnson is working with leadership and prioritizing a stopgap spending bill, while Sen. John Kennedy expects no action on a budget resolution this week. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has not ruled out taking up a budget resolution but acknowledges challenges.
- Senate easily advances stopgap funding deal past first hurdle
The Senate advanced a stopgap funding bill to avert a government shutdown, passing a procedural vote 89-4. The bill would fund federal agencies through Dec. 11 with some exceptions and includes provisions restricting the Trump administration's plan for political appointees and new funding for Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The Senate and House versions differ, creating potential conflict ahead of the fiscal year-end shutdown deadline.
- Democrats blink as Schumer helps GOP clear key shutdown hurdle
Senate Republicans and Democrats cleared a procedural hurdle for a short-term government funding extension through early December, avoiding a shutdown ahead of the midterms. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer supported the bipartisan plan, which aims to provide stability amid previous shutdowns linked to issues like Obamacare tax subsidies and immigration enforcement.
- Democrats blink as Schumer helps GOP clear key shutdown hurdle
Senate Republicans and Democrats cleared a procedural hurdle for a short-term funding extension to prevent a government shutdown through the midterm elections. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer endorsed the bipartisan plan, aligning with Republican efforts to ensure government funding continuity.
- Racing the clock: The $95B question dividing Senate Republicans
Senate Republicans aim to pass a stopgap spending bill to avoid a government shutdown before the Nov. 3 elections and advance a $95 billion budget package for the Iran war, farmer aid, and other priorities. Internal divisions over the budget’s size and debt concerns threaten progress, with unfinished matters likely delayed until September.
- Senate leaders reach funding deal to avoid shutdown during campaign season
Senate leaders unveiled a short-term spending bill to fund federal agencies until December 11, avoiding a government shutdown during the midterm election campaign. The bill, which funds the government at current levels, was negotiated to prevent a third shutdown in under a year, with both parties aiming to avoid voter backlash ahead of elections.