Incoming U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune R-South Dakota signaled his willingness to challenge President-elect Donald Trump on potential expansions of presidential authority over federal spending, while also emphasizing a collaborative approach to shared Republican policy objectives.
Speaking to the Brandon Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, Thune acknowledged the tension between executive and legislative powers, noting, “Congress…will have to put the brakes on” if presidential actions overreach.
While he expressed optimism about aligning on priorities like extending the 2017 tax cuts and securing the southern border, he highlighted the importance of maintaining checks and balances.
Trump’s incoming budget director, Russ Vought, has advocated for aggressive fiscal discipline through executive power in a Heritage Foundation blueprint, Project 2025. Meanwhile, Trump has pushed for Senate recesses to bypass confirmation hearings for Cabinet appointments.
Thune, however, plans to begin hearings immediately after the new Congress convenes on January 3, ensuring nominees are vetted before Trump’s inauguration.
Republicans’ legislative priorities include using the reconciliation process to extend key provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, avoiding what Thune described as a $4 trillion tax increase.
With control of 53 Senate seats and the House, Thune expects a smooth path for these initiatives but emphasized the importance of a fair process for nominees, warning against unnecessary delays by Democrats.