Mar 17, 2025 - Politics & Policy

Thune's Q1 report card after Senate's longest work stretch in 15 years

Stef W. Kight

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a Republican from South Dakota, during a news conference following the Senate Republican policy luncheon — Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) during a news conference. Photo: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) kicked off his new year of leadership by keeping the Senate working for 10 weeks in a row, with votes on four Fridays. That's a modern rarity.

Why it matters: The Senate is finally on recess after the longest stretch of weeks in session in more than 15 years. Senators, staff and reporters were ready for the break.

By the numbers: Senate Republicans and their 53-seat majority handed President Trump:

32 confirmed nominees, including 21 Cabinet members.
Eight bills passed with Democratic support —including major immigration and fentanyl bills. The Laken Riley Act has been signed into law.
Four rollbacks of Biden administration executive actions using the Congressional Review Act.

The other side: Senate Democrats filibustered bills addressing trans women in sports, ICC sanctions and health care after failed abortions.

The Senate's budget resolution has been set aside for the House version, which includes Trump's tax priorities in addition to border, defense and energy policies.

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Thune's Q1 report card after Senate's longest work stretch in 15 years

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