US Senator John Thune’s Weekly Column: Worth Fighting For

Worth Fighting For
By Sen. John Thune

 On the Fourth of July, Americans across the country will gather with family, friends, and their communities to celebrate our nation’s independence. After the parades and barbecues have ended, when I’m looking out at the wide South Dakota sky before the fireworks begin, it’s impossible not to be grateful to be an American and for the freedoms that we enjoy in this country.

Those freedoms, of course, did not come automatically. We fought for them, and later generations have fought to preserve them. Next year, we will celebrate 250 years of independence – and what a celebration it will be. Although we can trace a lot of our history to the iconic spirit of 1776, it was the year 1775 that was a moment of decision for many in the colonies.

It was in March 1775 that Patrick Henry urged his fellow Virginians to fight with the immortal words, “Give me liberty, or give me death.” Weeks later, at Lexington and Concord, the first Americans answered the call to arms, and some gave their lives for our country. And in June of that year, the Continental Congress officially established an army and appointed George Washington its commander in chief.

Ronald Reagan once said of our revolution, “We learned then that the God-given love of freedom that fills every human heart with strength is the greatest force the world has ever known.” Indeed, it was the powerful force of freedom that compelled farmers and tradesmen to leave their homes and face down the most powerful army in the world. They left behind their families, their livelihoods, and risked their lives for a cause of great importance.

The cause of freedom has moved generations of Americans to follow in their footsteps to defend our nation. I’m grateful for the men and women who continue this proud tradition today and for their families who share in their sacrifice. As we mark 80 years since the end of World War II this year, I think especially of the Greatest Generation. They left home for faraway places to defend America and advance the cause of human freedom, and what they did continues to inspire.

Some might say that “freedom” is just an empty word. But no one would fight for a mere word. Freedom is an idea – a powerful idea – and it is worth fighting for. As we march toward 250 years of independence, I hope that this flame – this most powerful force – will continue to burn brightly in our country.

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Dusty Johnson to Make Political Announcement in Sioux Falls, Rapid City on Monday

Johnson to Make Political Announcement in Sioux Falls, Rapid City on Monday

Sioux Falls, S.D. – On Monday, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) will make a political announcement in Sioux Falls and Rapid City.

What:    Sioux Falls Announcement
When:   Monday, June 30, 12:00 PM CT; doors open at 11:30 AM CT
Where:  Canopy by Hilton Sioux Falls Downtown

What:    Rapid City Announcement
When:   Monday, June 30, 5:00 PM MT
Where:  David Lust Accelerator

Rounds Invites President Trump to Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

Rounds Invites President Trump to Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) today sent an invitation to President Donald Trump inviting him to attend the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota. In addition to the rally itself, Rounds is inviting President Trump to attend a concert at the iconic Sturgis Buffalo Chip alongside founder and CEO Rod Woodruff.

“The Sturgis Buffalo Chip is among the most iconic venues in the nation, attracting tens of thousands of enthusiasts,” wrote Rounds. “It is a must-see experience, glowing with American pride and the roar of American muscle in the background.”

“South Dakota is Trump Country,” said Rounds. “We’d love to introduce you on stage during one of our premier concerts, in front of tens of thousands of fans and we’re thoroughly convinced you’ll be impressed with the reception.”

President Trump would be the first President to visit the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The last time a sitting President has visited South Dakota was President Trump’s attendance at the Mount Rushmore fireworks show in July 2020.

Read the full invitation HERE or below.

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Dear President Trump,

I write to offer an open invitation to be our guest at South Dakota’s Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

The rally began in 1938 and is the world’s largest motorcycle rally, attracting hundreds of thousands of patriots each year.

The Sturgis Buffalo Chip is among the most iconic venues in the nation, attracting tens of thousands of enthusiasts. It is a must-see experience, glowing with American pride with the roar of American muscle in the background.

The Sturgis Buffalo Chip offers world class entertainment and has hosted America-First artists such Kid Rock, Jason Aldean and Toby Keith, among others.  We’re biased, but it’s an experience every red-blooded American should witness, or better yet, participate in.

South Dakota is Trump Country. We’d love to introduce you on stage during one of our premier concerts, in front of tens of thousands of fans and we’re thoroughly convinced you’ll be impressed with the reception.

This year, the event is our 85th Anniversary – which will draw rally goers from every corner of the country and throughout the world. Next year, the 250th anniversary of our country will also be a blow out event. We’d be honored to host you whenever it may work in your schedule.

My friend, Rod Woodruff, founder and CEO of the Sturgis Buffalo Chip, has been copied on this letter and is available to answer any questions you or your team might have and will be available to help with all logistics. We’d be happy to make that introduction when appropriate.

Thank you for leading our great country, we’d love to honor you with an appreciation event like you’ve never seen.

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KELOland: AG Marty Jackley to run for Congress

From KELOLAND News, Attorney General Marty Jackley is apparently pulling the trigger on a run for United States Congress:

Jackley told KELOLAND News Friday he is planning to run in 2026 for South Dakota’s lone seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Republican Dusty Johnson, of Mitchell, currently occupies the seat which will be open 2026 along with every other seat in the U.S. House.

And..
According to Jackley’s latest campaign finance report filed in January, he had more than $500,000 cash on hand.

Fox News: Rounds invites Trump to Sturgis Rally

U.S. Senator Mike Rounds has extended an invitation to  President Trump to attend the motorcycle rally this year in Sturgis South Dakota:

Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., extended an invitation exclusively obtained by Fox News Digital to the president to attend his home state’s Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Rounds left the door open for Trump to either come to the rally’s 85th anniversary this year, or to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary next year.

“South Dakota is Trump Country,” Rounds said. “We’d love to introduce you on stage during one of our premier concerts, in front of tens of thousands of fans, and we’re thoroughly convinced you’ll be impressed with the reception.”

and..

“We’re biased, but it’s an experience every red-blooded American should witness, or better yet, participate in,” Rounds said.

“Thank you for leading our great country. We’d love to honor you with an appreciation event like you’ve never seen,” he continued.

Read it here.

Congressman Dusty Johnson’s Weekly column: Protecting American Farmland


Protecting American Farmland
By Rep. Dusty Johnson
June 27, 2025

BIG Update

China owns a concerning amount of farmland in the United States, and much of that land is near our military bases. For years, I have been sounding the alarm on how China’s purchases of American farmland pose a risk to our food security and national security. Our foreign adversaries—especially China—should not be purchasing U.S. farmland. We can never assume their intentions are good or these purchases are random. Rather, each move from the Chinese Communist Party is a deliberate attempt to increase their global dominance and undermine America.

This week, I voted to pass the Agricultural Risk Review Act to make sure the U.S. Secretary of the Agriculture’s voice is heard when it comes to ag land purchases that pose a risk to America. This bill will protect America’s farmland, military bases, and food supply, but most importantly, national security.

Map of Chinese-owned farmland in the U.S.

BIG Idea

Clean water is essential for economic growth, but the Clean Water Act imposes overly burdensome regulations and America’s permitting process is slow and antiquated. States and the federal government have access to technology to get these projects done in a more timely manner, but it’s not commonly used. This week, I secured a provision in the PERMIT Act to encourage states to use an online dashboard to improve permitting efficiency. The PERMIT Act passed the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and now heads to the full House.

I’ve been focused on permitting reform and this bill is another step toward increased transparency and quicker project timelines. Congress must cut red tape to unleash America’s energy and building potential.

BIG News

President Trump’s decisive action to bomb Iran’s nuclear sites quickly led to a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. I’m grateful for our brave men and women in uniform who safely and successfully completed this mission. The world is safer without a nuclear Iran and with an America that leads by peace through strength.

I recently wrote about America’s role abroad. You can read that article in the Ripon Forum here.

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Governor Rhoden’s Weekly Column: The Western States

The Western States
By: Gov. Larry Rhoden
June 27, 2025

I was born and raised in West River, and that part of the state reflects the great American West in a lot of ways. The hillcrests and valleys are a bit sharper, the prairies have more cows and grass than corn and soybeans, and the Black Hills are similar to the Rockies (though far more beautiful).

Many of the issues that impact West River are similar to other western states as well. For that reason, I was right at home just a few days ago when I attended the meeting of the Western Governors Association. Bipartisan governors from all over the western states joined together in New Mexico. I hadn’t spent much time in New Mexico, so I was impressed by the natural beauty – very different from our own here in South Dakota

The other governors shared advice and policy ideas. We also heard from several cabinet secretaries in the Trump Administration on policies that impact us in this part of the country.

I was impressed by the fact that, even though governors from both parties were present in strong numbers, there was very much a spirit of comradery among us to solve problems facing our people. For example, Sandy and I made friends with New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and her husband. If she ever decides to leave government and politics, she could make a career as a standup comedian!

The conversations were very much policy oriented – not political at all. We heard from Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, who is the former Governor of North Dakota and a longtime member of the Western Governors Association. He brought a lot of understanding of our various circumstances and how we can face those in our respective roles as governor.

I had the privilege to introduce Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, who has been a major benefit to South Dakota in her role. We covered a lot of ground, including what she is doing to tackle looming challenges like the New World Screwworm, which would threaten cattle herds across western states if left unaddressed.

Most of all, I very much appreciated the counsel that I received from my fellow governors. I was the newest to my role at this event, but the other governors treated me as an equal. I’m glad to know that if I ever have need of advice or assistance, all I need to do is pick up the phone.

It’s very humbling to serve as governor on behalf of our entire state – to have it as my responsibility to keep our people strong, safe, and free. Other governors have the same responsibility. Though they may approach their roles in different ways or support different policies, their perspective and advice is always beneficial. We can always learn something, even from our worst critic. It was a great opportunity to work with and learn from my fellow Western Governors.

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Rounds Provision to Review Foreign Ag Land Transactions Passes U.S. House

Rounds Provision to Review Foreign Ag Land Transactions Passes U.S. House

WASHINGTON – This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 1713, the Agricultural Risk Review Act of 2025, introduced by Representative Frank Lucas (R-Okla.), which included provisions of legislation introduced by U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), the Promoting Agriculture Safeguards and Security (PASS) Act. The legislation would require the Secretary of Agriculture to review all agriculture transactions reviewed by the Committee on Foreign Investments in the United States (CFIUS). It would give the U.S. Department of Agriculture the ability to refer cases to CFIUS for review if there is reason to believe an agriculture land transaction may raise a national security concern.

In addition to the House provisions, Rounds’ PASS Act would ban individuals and entities controlled by China, Russia, Iran and North Korea from purchasing agricultural land and businesses located near U.S. military installations or sensitive sites.

“I am pleased to see that the House has passed legislation that would give the Secretary of Agriculture more oversight on foreign activity in America’s agriculture industry,” said Rounds. “This will make it easier to flag any unusual activity by our foreign adversaries that could threaten the United States. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to get this same provision passed on our side of the Capitol, in addition to further provisions of banning adversaries from buying the land near our sensitive sites.”

BACKGROUND:

Rounds has been a leader on preventing foreign adversaries, namely China, Russia, North Korea and Iran, from owning land in America. Rounds first introduced the PASS Act to the Senate in August 2022 during the 117th Congress, with Representative Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) leading companion legislation in the House. The PASS Act has received wide support throughout the state and is endorsed by the South Dakota Corn Growers Association (SDCGA), South Dakota Farmers Union (SDFU), South Dakota Farm Bureau Federation (SDFBF), South Dakota Dairy Producers (SDDP), South Dakota Soybean Association (SDSA), South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association, South Dakota Stockgrowers Association (SDSGA), R-CALF USA and South Dakota Pork Producers Council (SDPPC).

In February 2023, Rounds reintroduced the PASS Act in the 118th Congress. The Senate Armed Services passed an amendment offered by Rounds as part of their committee version of the National Defense Authorization Act which would have banned entities controlled by China, Russia, Iran and North Korea from purchasing farmland or agriculture businesses. Rounds reintroduced the PASS Act in the 119th Congress in March 2025.

In October 2023, Rounds introduced the Protect Our Bases Act. This legislation would have made certain the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States can review foreign land purchases near sensitive military, intelligence and national laboratory sites by requiring member agencies to annually update and review their lists of these sites. This legislation was reintroduced in June 2025.

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Senate Majority Leader John Thune Joins The Hugh Hewitt Show

Thune Joins The Hugh Hewitt Show

 “I’m hoping that not only can we get Republicans in the House and the Senate to rally behind it – but get it on the president’s desk [and] signed into law, so that the American people who voted for him and voted for this agenda can benefit from it.”

Click here or on the picture to watch the video.

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) joined The Hugh Hewitt Show.