Thune Erupts in Rare Anger, Blasts Dems for ‘Holding Government Hostage’ Amid Shutdown

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), usually known for his composed demeanor, expressed visible frustration on the Senate floor Wednesday, blaming Democrats for extending the government shutdown and using social welfare programs as political leverage.

The outburst occurred during a tense debate over temporary funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food aid to low-income families.

Democrats, led by Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), advocated for a standalone bill to ensure SNAP benefits continued as the shutdown neared its 30th day.

Thune responded sharply, emphasizing that Republicans had already voted 13 times to reopen the government, only to be blocked by Democrats in the Senate.

“Let me just point out, if I might, that we are 29 days into a Democrat shutdown,” Thune said, his voice rising. “SNAP recipients shouldn’t go without food. People should be getting paid in this country. And we’ve tried to do that 13 times. You voted no 13 times.”

As Democrats pushed for an immediate vote, Thune’s exasperation grew, and he turned toward the Democratic side of the chamber, slapping the lectern for emphasis.

“You all just figured out, 29 days in, that, oh, there might be some consequences? There are people who’ll run out of money? Yeah, we’re 29 days in,” he said. “At some point, the government runs out of money. My aching back. You finally realize this thing has consequences.” His remarks highlighted deep partisan frustration amid the ongoing shutdown.