Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed concerns over President Trump’s recent policies, particularly new tariffs that could increase prices for a wide range of goods. Thune, representing South Dakota, emphasized the economic impacts of these tariffs on everyday Americans, highlighting potential inflation and impacts on economic growth. Despite his reservations, Thune acknowledged the president’s efforts to address American concerns but stressed the need to evaluate the macroeconomic effects of policy decisions.

Thune’s comments come amidst Trump’s address to Congress, coinciding with the implementation of tariffs on Mexico and Canada. While Thune did not outright criticize the tariffs, he recognized Trump’s use of presidential authority but expressed hope for market stabilization over time.

Regarding US military aid to Ukraine, Thune cautioned against American isolationism and emphasized the importance of US leadership on the global stage. He viewed the pause in aid as a strategy to engage European nations in providing security for Ukraine while maintaining America’s role as a deterrent to bad behavior.

Thune also commented on Elon Musk’s impact on reshaping the federal government, citing the reduction of the federal workforce through the Department of Government Efficiency. While recognizing the need for government efficiency, Thune emphasized the importance of considering the impacts on affected federal workers.

Overall, Thune supported the administration’s goals but called for careful consideration of the aftermath of policy decisions and the involvement of well-informed officials in decision-making processes.