Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., has sharply criticized Senate Democrats for allowing ‘far-left’ lawmakers to dominate the party’s agenda after their decision to block the defense appropriations bill. Thune argued that the Democratic caucus is in a ‘bad place’ and that this dysfunction is exacerbating the ongoing government shutdown. The bill, which was intended to fund the Pentagon and pay military service members, faced significant opposition as Democrats demanded additional provisions to be included, which Thune deemed unrealistic and unproductive.
Thune’s criticism came during an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, where he emphasized that the decision to vote against the procedural measure was an ‘extreme measure’ stemming from a ‘very dysfunctional place’ within the Democratic party. He pointed to the ‘No Kings’ rally as a catalyst for this internal conflict, which he believes is pushing the party further apart. The failed effort to advance the defense bill comes as the government shutdown enters its 16th day, with Thune accusing Democrats of prioritizing radical left-wing interests over the needs of federal workers and military pay. He noted that there are people who are already missing paychecks and that the situation ‘gets real pretty fast’ if the shutdown continues.
The Senate’s next step in addressing the funding crisis is likely to be legislation introduced by Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., and other Republicans, which aims to pay both troops and federal employees. Thune’s criticism of Democrats underscores the growing tensions between the two parties as they struggle to reach a compromise. The failed defense bill and the broader shutdown impasse highlight the deepening divide and the financial implications for both the government and its employees. Thune’s remarks reflect a broader conservative stance on fiscal responsibility and government spending, which is increasingly at odds with the Democratic party’s focus on progressive policies and social issues.