Thune Erupts in Rare Anger, Blasts
Thune Blasts Democrats Over Prolonged Shutdown
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), usually known for his composure, erupted on the Senate floor Wednesday,
accusing Democrats of extending the government shutdown and using food aid as “political leverage.”
During debate over funding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP),
Thune noted Republicans had voted 13 times to reopen the government.
“We are 29 days into a Democrat shutdown,” he said.
“SNAP recipients shouldn’t go without food… You voted no 13 times.”
Visibly frustrated, Thune added, “You finally realize this thing has consequences,”
slapping the lectern for emphasis. He warned, “This isn’t a political game. These are real people’s lives.”
Democrats, led by Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), pushed a standalone SNAP bill,
while Republicans proposed a broader measure covering food aid and military pay.
Thune dismissed both, demanding full reopening of the government.
