Thune Warns Dems' Obstruction Delays Trump Nominees Senate Confirmations

Senate Majority Leader John Thune has expressed deep frustration with Senate Democrats for what he describes as unprecedented obstruction and delay tactics against President Donald Trump's civilian nominees, including key undersecretaries, judges, and ambassadors. Thune emphasized that no president in history has reached this point without having a nominee approved by unanimous consent or voice vote, a milestone Democrats have blocked, forcing the Senate to rely on roll call votes. He has vowed to "grind down" Democratic opposition and is even considering canceling the August recess to push confirmations, a move supported by President Trump. Thune also warned that if Democrats continue these tactics, they risk setting a harmful precedent that could backfire on them when they next hold power. Additionally, Thune is preparing for a potential government shutdown, blaming Senate Democrats if one occurs due to their resistance to funding bills, and urging them to avoid such an outcome. Despite the challenges, the Senate has confirmed over 100 of Trump's civilian nominees in 2025, nearly doubling the pace of the previous administration's confirmations at this stage.