02.05.25

Thune: From Cabinet Confirmations to Legislation, the Senate is Focused on Results

“[I]t’s been a busy few weeks here in the Senate. And I’m looking forward to more, as we continue to confirm the president’s nominees and deliver on an agenda for the American people.”

February 5, 2025

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WASHINGTON — U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) today delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor:

Thune’s remarks below (as delivered):

“Mr. President, while our focus in the Senate has been on nominees, we have managed to work in votes on a few pieces of legislation.

“And last week, the president signed one of those pieces of legislation into law.

“The Laken Riley Act, which the president signed last Wednesday, is Congress’ first installment in our work to combat illegal immigration.

“It is not, of course, a comprehensive bill, but it will ensure that illegal immigrants who steal, assault a law enforcement officer, or kill or seriously injure another person are detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, instead of being allowed back out on the street.

“Had such a law been in place last year, it is possible that Laken Riley would still be alive today.

“And I’m thankful that we were finally able to pass this important legislation.

“Mr. President, the Laken Riley Act joins the work the Trump administration has been doing to keep dangerous illegal immigrants off our streets.

“Since President Trump’s inauguration, his border czar and now Homeland Security team – now led by Secretary Noem – have been working around the clock to take murderers, rapists, gang members, and other dangerous criminals into custody in preparation for being deported.

“Reading lists of crimes these individuals committed is horrifying.

“And it is incredible that they have been allowed to remain in our country.

“And I’m grateful that we now have a president who is serious about protecting Americans from criminal aliens.

“Republicans in Congress are working on legislation to support the president’s efforts.

“And we will ensure that the president has the manpower and detention space needed to detain and deport individuals who threaten the safety of our streets.

“Mr. President, it’s been a busy few weeks here in the Senate.

“And I’m looking forward to more, as we continue to confirm the president’s nominees and deliver on an agenda for the American people.”

Related Issues: Restoring the Senate, Nominations