John Thune
The Steward
Legacy, values and the long now, leadership as care and continuity.
John Thune profiles cleanly as The Steward, a leader whose authority rests on institutional continuity rather than personal spectacle. The South Dakota Republican rose through the classic Senate ladder, serving as whip under Mitch McConnell before winning the top job in late 2024, and his leadership style reflects that apprenticeship.
“The report showed 19% of mid-size and large Iowa farms were considered financially vulnerable in December 2025, more than double the 7.7% identified in 2022, the authors said. So far, though, the proportion of vulnerable farms remains lower than [it was in] 2015 to 2019, the last long-term farm downturn. Last year, U.S.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S4166] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] Iowa Farm Income Mr. President, I don't see another Member coming to the floor.”
“President, I am also proud of how the Working Families Tax Cut strengthens pathways to meaningful career options for the next generation. On the higher education side, we implemented accountability and reforms to put downward pressure on the cost of college degrees.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S4166] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] Recognition of the Majority Leader The majority leader is recognized.”
Wikiquote: “Public record read”
LISTEN AT THE SOURCE ↗THE RECORD IS CHECKABLE