#john_thune

Speaker Mike Johnson Faces Major Setback as Veterans Benefits Bill Falters Speaker Mike Johnson encountered another significant political challenge on Thursday as his efforts to advance a key veterans benefits bill collapsed amid internal GOP divisions. The measure, intended to be a major legislative achievement for the Republican Party ahead of the midterms, was abruptly removed from the legislative calendar after more than a half-dozen holdouts refused to support it. The failure marks another blow to Johnson’s leadership as he navigates a turbulent final stretch of his tenure before the House’s August recess. The bill, which aimed to expand benefits for veterans, had been mired in controversy for weeks. Critics, including powerful veteran advocacy groups like the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Disabled American Veterans, argued that the proposal would reduce certain disability coverage by limiting payouts for future claims. This provision, designed to fund expanded benefits for other veterans, drew sharp opposition from groups representing disabled service members. Meanwhile, the American Legion supported the measure, highlighting the deepening rift within the party’s veteran community. Johnson and his allies attempted to salvage the bill at the last minute, convening a meeting with GOP moderates who had expressed concerns about its funding mechanism. Despite these efforts, the bill failed to secure the necessary votes. The meeting turned contentious, with Rep. Zach Nunn reportedly telling Rep. Anna Paulina Luna to stop speaking mid-conversation. Luna, who had previously drawn criticism for blocking the floor over an unrelated election bill, explained her refusal to back the measure, stating that it would cut benefits for tinnitus and sleep apnea.#john_thune #speaker_mike_johnson #veterans_of_foreign_wars #disabled_american_veterans #american_legion

Senate Democrats Block $1 Trillion Defense Bill in Protest Over Iran War Senate Democrats on Tuesday blocked a $1 trillion annual defense bill, refusing to advance the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) as a protest against President Donald Trump’s ongoing military actions in Iran. The vote, which failed to reach the required threshold, split along party lines with 50 senators voting against the measure and 46 in favor. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, of New York, led the opposition, arguing that the bill would enable Trump’s “recklessness” in the Iran conflict. Schumer criticized the administration for dragging the U.S. into a war without a clear endgame, stating, “Donald Trump does not get to drag the American people deeper into a war he cannot explain and does not know how to end — and then demand that Congress look the other way.” The vote occurred a day after the White House notified Congress that it had resumed bombing strikes against Iran, effectively ending a fragile ceasefire in the U.S.-Israel led conflict. The resumption of hostilities has exacerbated economic tensions, including volatile gas prices, as the midterm elections approach. The Senate’s rejection of the NDAA marks a significant shift from decades of bipartisan support for the annual defense bill, which historically set policy and authorized funding for the Pentagon. This year, however, lawmakers are resisting both the war and the proposed $1.5 trillion in Pentagon spending, up from $900 billion last year. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a Republican, defended the defense package, calling it a “good bill” and urging colleagues to approve it to ensure national security.#donald_trump #john_thune #senate_democrats #chuck_schumer #national_defense_authorization_act

Senate Democrats block $1.15 trillion defense authorization bill Senate Democrats on Tuesday blocked efforts to advance the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), a $1.15 trillion bill that typically enjoys broad bipartisan support but has become embroiled in partisan disputes over defense spending. The motion to proceed with the legislation failed by a vote of 50 to 46, falling short of the 60 votes needed for passage. The vote followed a contentious debate over the bill’s funding levels, with Democrats citing recent military actions against Iran and criticism of former President Donald Trump’s handling of the conflict as key reasons for their opposition. The legislation, which passed the Senate Armed Services Committee in June with a bipartisan 18-9 vote, would allocate $1.1 trillion to the Department of Defense, $41 billion to the Department of Energy for nuclear arsenal management, and $11 billion to other defense-related programs. It also includes a 3.6 percent pay raise for military personnel and investments in education, housing, healthcare, and childcare for military families. However, the Senate’s failure to reach a bipartisan agreement on defense and non-defense spending levels has stalled the bill and created a broader deadlock in the legislative process. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (N.Y.) accused Republicans of ignoring the ongoing military conflict with Iran, which resumed on February 28, and criticized their push for the NDAA as if the war were not occurring. “Now the White House has formally notified Congress that hostilities have resumed, that American strikes are under way again and our forces remain positioned for more.#john_thune #senate_democrats #chuck_schumer #national_defense_authorization_act #roger_wicker

A Neighbor Witnesses McConnell's Hospitalization Amid Medical Emergency A neighbor of U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell described to CNN the chaotic scene outside his Washington, D.C., home on June 14, when emergency responders arrived at around 8:30 a.m. to address what appeared to be a critical medical situation. The witness reported that two ambulances, a fire truck, and Capitol Police officers cordoned off the entire street, creating a tense atmosphere for nearby residents. When the neighbor inquired about the circumstances, officers initially stated there had been a “medical emergency,” though they refused to confirm whether McConnell was involved. The neighbor later learned from another eyewitness that the individual on the stretcher was McConnell, who was not wearing an oxygen mask. The neighbor recounted that while they did not see McConnell’s face, others on the block did. One neighbor reportedly identified him by sight, confirming his identity as the senator. The witness described McConnell’s condition as alarming, noting that his feet were uncovered and appeared to be “not moving” during the scene. Despite the apparent severity of the situation, the neighbor observed that emergency responders did not seem overly panicked, with sirens turned off as the vehicles departed the scene. An EMS audio recording, shared by an independent journalist, provided additional details about the incident. The recording indicated that emergency personnel were called to McConnell’s home for an “unconscious” individual, with someone on the scene stating, “CPR in progress.” The audio suggested the responders were treating what appeared to be a cardiac arrest. However, the neighbor noted that the emergency teams acted swiftly but without the urgency typically associated with such emergencies.#john_thune #washington_d_c #mitch_mcconnell #capitol_police #ems_audio_recording

McConnell’s Wife’s Absence Sparks Questions Over His Health Condition Mitch McConnell’s allies have faced mounting scrutiny over their handling of rumors about the Senate Majority Leader’s health. The situation escalated after MAGA influencer Laura Loomer claimed McConnell was “brain dead” and would never return to the Senate. In response, three of McConnell’s close associates—Senator John Thune, Senator John Barrasso, and CNN commentator Scott Jennings—asserted they had recently spoken with the Kentuckian, aiming to dispel the speculation. However, the controversy deepened when McConnell’s wife, Elaine Chao, issued a statement that raised further questions about the transparency of his medical situation. Chao, a former Republican majority leader and longtime spouse of McConnell, has been in the hospital for three weeks. Her spokesperson confirmed that McConnell was admitted to the hospital on June 14, with updates indicating his condition had “continued to improve.” Despite these statements, no official details have been released about the reason for his hospitalization or his current health status. A critical piece of information emerged from an EMS dispatch call, which revealed that an ambulance was called to McConnell’s Washington, D.C., home on the morning of June 14 due to an “unconscious person” in what appeared to be “cardiac arrest.” Medics performed CPR before transporting him to the hospital. Chao’s statement, however, painted a different picture. In a first-person account released by her spokesperson to WLKY, she claimed she was already overseas when McConnell was hospitalized and saw no need to cut her trip short. The statement detailed her “long-planned trip in China” to support her family’s philanthropic efforts, during which she met with U.S. officials, including the American ambassador.#john_thune #laura_loomer #mitch_mcconnell #elaine_chao #john_barrasso

Questions swirl over top US Republican McConnell's hospital stay - here's what we know The Kentucky senator's team said on 2 July he was "receiving excellent care" and "continues to improve" Concerns about the health of US Senator Mitch McConnell, a prominent Republican leader, have intensified as he remains hospitalized for over three weeks. McConnell, 84, was admitted to a medical facility on 14 June, though his office has not disclosed the specific reason for his stay or the nature of his treatment. His aides have provided limited updates, with the latest statement from his team on 2 July emphasizing that the senator "continues to improve" and is working on Senate and state matters while the legislative session is adjourned. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, a Democrat, has called for greater transparency, sending a letter to McConnell's office on Wednesday urging the senator to provide an update on his health. The governor expressed concerns about McConnell's "ability to hold office," citing growing public speculation about his condition. This comes amid reports that 911 emergency calls were made from McConnell's home on 14 June, describing an "unconscious" individual experiencing "cardiac arrest." The calls also indicated CPR was administered, though McConnell was not explicitly named in the recordings. The lack of official information has fueled widespread rumors and speculation online. Several Republicans have publicly stated they spoke with McConnell by phone, including Senate Leader John Thune, whose spokesperson confirmed they had a "lengthy and substantive conversation" covering topics like national security. Senator John Barrasso's office reported a 20-minute call where McConnell was described as "fully engaged" and eager to return to the Senate.#john_thune #andy_beshear #han_zheng #mitch_mcconnell #elaine_chao

Republicans brace for Trump SAVE Act showdown Sens. Mike Lee and Rick Scott have scheduled a potentially contentious lunch with President Trump and Senate Republicans, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over the SAVE America Act. The meeting, set for Wednesday, comes after months of pressure from Lee and Scott on Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) to advance the legislation. The SAVE Act, which mandates voter ID requirements, proof of citizenship, and stricter mail-in voting restrictions, has become a central issue in the Republican Party's strategy for the upcoming midterm elections. However, Thune has remained resolute in his opposition, arguing that the bill lacks sufficient support within the Senate. Thune emphasized that the SAVE Act faces significant hurdles, stating, "There are not the votes to nuke the filibuster, and there aren't going to be 10 Democrat votes to all of a sudden support the SAVE America Act." His comments reflect the broader skepticism among Senate Republicans about the feasibility of passing the bill, particularly given the party's divided stance on voting reforms. The SAVE Act's provisions, which aim to curb voter access, have drawn criticism from moderate and centrist members of the party, who argue that the measures could alienate voters and undermine the party's electoral prospects. The tension within the Senate GOP leadership has intensified as conservative senators like Lee and Scott push for aggressive procedural tactics to force the bill's passage. Scott, who chairs the conservative Senate GOP Steering Committee, extended an invitation to Trump for the weekly lunch, a move that Thune humorously dismissed as unconsulted. "Well, he told me he did it," Thune remarked, highlighting the informal and sometimes contentious dynamics within the party.#trump #save_america_act #john_thune #mike_lee #rick_scott

Senate Confirms Trump Nominee Kevin Warsh as Federal Reserve Chairman The U.S. Senate confirmed Kevin Warsh, President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Federal Reserve, in a 54-45 party-line vote on Wednesday. Warsh, a former Federal Reserve official, will replace Jerome Powell as chair of the central bank amid a period of heightened economic uncertainty. The confirmation comes as the Fed faces mounting pressure to address persistent inflation, a divided policymaking committee, and ongoing political scrutiny. Warsh, 56, will assume the role at a critical juncture for the Fed, which has struggled to balance its dual mandate of price stability and maximum employment. Inflation, which has exceeded the Fed’s 2% target for five years, has recently accelerated due to surging gas prices linked to the war in Iran. The Fed’s interest rate-setting committee, known as the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), has been deeply divided, with the most dissenting votes in over three decades recorded at its last meeting. Powell, who has faced years of personal attacks from Trump and an unprecedented Justice Department investigation, plans to remain on the Fed’s board even after his term as chair ends, potentially creating a competing power center within the agency. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a Republican from South Dakota, emphasized the importance of a Fed chair who understands both macroeconomic trends and the impact on everyday Americans. “Kevin Warsh is just such a person,” Thune stated during a floor speech, highlighting his commitment to addressing the challenges facing working families. Trump’s demands for change at the Fed have been a central theme of his administration.#trump #federal_reserve #john_thune #kevin_warsh #us_senate

Senate Unanimously Advances DHS Funding Deal Without ICE and CBP Amid Shutdown The Senate moved forward with a bipartisan agreement to reopen most of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) after 42 days of government shutdown, but the deal excluded funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and parts of Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The agreement, passed in the early hours of Friday, marks a critical step toward resolving the funding crisis but leaves key immigration enforcement agencies without financial support. The decision came amid ongoing tensions between Democrats and Republicans over immigration policy and the broader implications of the shutdown. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and his Democratic allies praised the deal, calling it a victory for their priorities. Schumer argued that the agreement aligns with their demands to withhold funding for ICE and CBP, which he and his caucus have consistently opposed. “This is exactly what we wanted,” Schumer stated, emphasizing that his party had maintained its stance throughout the negotiations. However, the deal lacks the sweeping reforms Democrats had sought, such as requiring judicial warrants for agent actions or mandating the unmasking of individuals during investigations. Republicans, led by Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., criticized the agreement as a missed opportunity to secure meaningful policy changes. Thune argued that Democrats had repeatedly rejected proposals to fund immigration enforcement while simultaneously demanding reforms. “We’ve been trying for weeks to fund the whole thing,” Thune said, noting that the deal “has zero reforms” and that Democrats had failed to compromise on policy issues.#dhs #senate #john_thune #transportation_security_administration #chuck_schumer

Can the SAVE America Act Actually Pass Congress? The SAVE America Act, a proposed federal law that would require proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections and tighten identification rules at the polls, faces significant political and legal hurdles as it moves through Congress. The bill, which passed the House earlier this year, is now under consideration in the Senate, where it could become a defining issue in the upcoming midterm elections. President Donald Trump has framed the legislation as a critical step to secure Republican dominance in Congress, warning that failure to pass a version of the bill could jeopardize the party’s control of the midterms. The Senate is set to vote on the SAVE America Act this week, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune positioning the bill as a priority. The legislation would mandate that states provide federal authorities with access to voter rolls to verify that all registered voters are U.S. citizens. This provision, along with stricter requirements for proving citizenship during registration and voting, has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats and civil rights advocates, who argue it could disproportionately affect marginalized communities. Key provisions of the bill include requiring voters to present documents such as passports, birth certificates, or other official identification to prove citizenship. Critics highlight that millions of Americans, including 146 million citizens without valid passports and 69 million married women without updated birth certificates, could face barriers to voting. While White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed concerns about these groups facing undue hardship, experts caution that even minor obstacles could disenfranchise voters, particularly in states with limited access to government services.#midterm_elections #donald_trump #save_america_act #karoline_leavitt #john_thune

Trump allies plan Senate floor takeover to pass SAVE America Act President Trump’s allies are preparing to take control of the Senate floor this week in an effort to push the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE America) Act through, setting up a critical test for Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), who faces pressure from Trump and the MAGA base to prolong the debate over voting reform. GOP senators are keeping their strategies private as they brace for a lengthy, potentially overnight session aimed at building momentum for the bill, which mandates documented proof of citizenship for voters. The measure already enjoys broad public support, with 71 percent of registered voters backing it according to a recent Harvard CAPS/Harris poll of 1,999 respondents. Trump allies, frustrated by their inability to force Democrats into a talking filibuster to block the bill, are urging Thune to keep the measure on the floor as long as possible to force Democrats to defend their opposition. A Republican strategist, who supports a showdown with Democrats, described the goal as “exhausting Democrats, causing pain, and forcing a public and political process.” The strategist questioned whether the debate would escalate into a “fist fight” and how “bloody” Thune would make it. Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), a leading proponent of the bill, echoed this sentiment, envisioning an epic floor fight akin to the two-month battle that preceded the Senate’s passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Lee emphasized the importance of maximizing debate time, recalling how the Senate stayed in session for 60 days during that historic fight. Lee, a close Trump ally, suggested the president will closely monitor the Senate debate, as Trump has pressured Thune to secure the bill’s passage before signing any legislation.#save_america_act #john_thune #trump_allies #maga_base #senate_majority_leader

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Briefs on Iran War Amid Trump's Mixed Messaging Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine held a press briefing on Tuesday, providing updates on the ongoing military operations against Iran. Hegseth emphasized that the United States is “crushing the enemy in an overwhelming display of technical skill and military force,” describing the conflict as a 10-day battle that has intensified with each passing day. He warned that Tuesday would mark “the most intense day of strikes inside Iran,” with increased numbers of fighters, bombers, and refined intelligence targeting key infrastructure. President Donald Trump, meanwhile, offered conflicting assessments of the war’s progress. On Monday, he described Operation Epic Fury as a “short excursion,” yet simultaneously threatened to escalate the campaign with more “fury” to achieve its objectives. Trump’s remarks came as the economic fallout of the conflict began to take shape, with rising oil prices and concerns over gas costs growing among Republicans. The president argued that higher fuel prices were a “very small price to pay” for eliminating the Iranian nuclear threat, a stance that has drawn criticism from GOP lawmakers worried about its impact on the November elections. Trump’s comments also touched on his relationship with Vice President JD Vance, whom he described as “maybe less enthusiastic” at the start of the war. Despite this, Trump claimed the two “get along very well on this,” suggesting a degree of unity within the administration. However, tensions within the Republican Party have intensified as Trump’s demand for the Senate to pass the SAVE America Act—requiring proof of citizenship for voting—has placed pressure on Senate Majority Leader John Thune.#donald_trump #pete_hegseth #dan_caine #john_thune #j_d_vance