Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) — known for his calm and disciplined demeanor — stunned colleagues Wednesday with a rare, impassioned speech on the Senate floor, accusing Democrats of “holding the government hostage” as the shutdown nears its 30th day. His remarks came during a heated debate over a Democratic proposal to fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food aid to millions of low-income Americans. Democrats, led by Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), pushed the bill to keep food benefits flowing despite the shutdown, but Republicans opposed the move, calling it a distraction from broader budget negotiations.
Thune’s frustration boiled over as he accused Democrats of blocking 13 separate GOP attempts to reopen the government. “We are now 29 days into a Democrat shutdown,” he said angrily. “SNAP recipients shouldn’t go without food. Federal employees should be getting paid. And you voted no — 13 times.” He slammed his hand on the lectern as he continued, “At some point, the government runs out of money. My aching back — you finally realize this thing has consequences.” His outburst reflected growing impatience among Republicans, who argue Democrats are using the shutdown to pressure President Donald Trump on spending priorities, including border security and social programs.
Democrats countered that Republicans were trying to shift blame. Luján said, “People are hungry right now. They can’t wait for partisan gridlock to resolve itself.” Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) added that the standoff was “manufactured by an administration that refuses to compromise.” Thune closed his speech by urging Democrats to “stop the games and get serious about governing,” warning that real families are suffering as the shutdown drags on. His emotional remarks drew quiet applause from Republican colleagues — a rare sign of unity amid deepening frustration.
