Is There a Limit to John Thune's Support for Trump?
The unassuming South Dakotan has reached the height of influence in the Senate at a time when Donald Trump is exercising his own executive power.
TroibNews 
John Thune was unable to attend his brother's funeral.
On the last Thursday of January, the Senate's agenda was packed with a variety of unconventional nominees that required confirmation to fill President Donald Trump's cabinet. With Democrats attempting to stall and counter in any way they could, Thune, the new majority leader, faced pressure from the more vocal Republican supporters of the president who demanded loyalty and quick action. Thune had committed to working weekends, and this weekend was no exception. Even though his brother had passed away, he made it clear that his professional obligations took precedence.
However, later that evening, Thune and top Democrat Chuck Schumer agreed to postpone their work to the following week. As a result, the Senate adjourned shortly before 8 PM, and the next morning, Thune boarded a flight to California.
He did not arrive in time for the graveside service that Friday afternoon, but later that evening, he attended a gathering at his niece's home in the Irvine area, where he listened to family members reminisce about his older brother, the first of his four siblings to pass away. Thune also shared insights from a book he had once read regarding the contrast between "resume virtues" and "eulogy virtues," as recounted by his younger brother. “John said,” Tim Thune recalled, “‘We build our lives worrying about our resume, and promoting self, and what does that look like?’ He said, ‘At the end of the day, when you’re gone, what are people going to say? How will you be remembered?’”
Given the complexities of today's political landscape, it's easy to see why such thoughts might weigh on his mind. As the Republican conference leader and the head of the Senate, Thune occupies a crucial role within one of the country’s key institutions during a pivotal time in American politics.
Having spent nearly 30 years in Washington, the 64-year-old Thune, who hails from a small-town background in South Dakota, often seems out of sync with prevailing trends. Known for his devout beliefs yet measured approach, he embodies a collaborative spirit rather than combative tendencies. A family man with two daughters and a marriage that has spanned over four decades, he is clearly conservative yet possesses a temperament that lends itself to moderation. In an era marked by rapid-fire, often reckless attacks on government and institutions, Thune stands out as a steadfast institutionalist—rarely embroiled in scandal and not often profiled despite his considerable stature. By upbringing, experience, and demeanor, he is a stark contrast to Donald Trump.
Historically, Thune has made it known that he did not favor Trump as the presidential nominee for his party. Now, he faces the ongoing challenge of determining how to navigate a political landscape increasingly dominated by a reelected and reinvigorated Trump.
As Thune reaches this professional peak, he finds himself at a personal crossroads.
Colleagues, friends, and aides speak about Thune with strong, uniform respect. “A man of integrity,” South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden remarked. He has been described as “one of the most earnest, humble, decent people I’ve ever known,” according to longtime consultant Scott Howell. Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina stated, “John’s doing a good job — a great job.” His performance is noted as “at peak performance” by Senator Steve Daines of Montana. Even GOP skeptics have acknowledged their contentment with Thune’s leadership, given his effectiveness in confirming challenging nominees like Pete Hegseth and Tulsi Gabbard.
Conversely, there exists a significant faction of Democrats and anti-Trump Republicans who expected more from him. “If there need to be Republicans in the Senate — and obviously there’s going to be — I wish they were all like John Thune,” said Drey Samuelson, former chief of staff for Tim Johnson, the last Senate Democrat from South Dakota. Samuelson expressed a sentiment shared by many who admire Thune personally while taking issue with his lack of vocal opposition to Trump.
The Senate holds a constitutional obligation not only to cooperate with the presidency but also to provide a check on detrimental partisan influences and overreach. As such, Thune’s ability to recognize and uphold this balance is critically scrutinized. “I think he respects and admires the separation of powers,” remarked Ted Muenster, a former chief of staff for Democratic Governor Richard Kneip of South Dakota. He pointed out the potential danger of Trump's quest for power, implying that Thune may have to set firm boundaries.
Those who know Thune well believe he understands where that line is drawn and will know when it is crossed. However, growing anxiety exists among those like Samuelson and Muenster, particularly given Trump’s controversial actions, including pardoning over 1,500 Jan. 6 inmates and issuing a series of executive orders that challenge the limits of presidential authority. Thune’s responses have largely been muted, suggesting at least an implicit acceptance of Trump's tactics.
“He’s going to have to pick,” Democrats like Steve Jarding warned. “If I’m John Thune, OK, I want the title — but I want a legacy,” he remarked, adding that he wouldn’t want to be remembered as a mere follower of Trump.
“It would be helpful if there were some inner turmoil,” said Mark Salter, a longtime adviser to the late John McCain. Thune’s strong conservative background may lead him to believe that he could maintain his influence while waiting for a worse scenario to arise, yet this balancing act could become increasingly difficult.
On that Saturday in California, Thune attended the memorial service for his brother. While he didn’t speak, he listened as others recounted stories about his brother as a selfless servant and devoted teacher, someone whose life was characterized by principles he held dear.
Later that day, while traveling back to Sioux Falls with his younger brother, Thune reflected once more on the distinction between “resume virtues” and “eulogy virtues,” as articulated by David Brooks in his book, *The Road to Character*. “The resume virtues are the ones you list on your resume, the skills that you bring to the job market and that contribute to external success,” Brooks wrote. “The eulogy virtues are deeper. They’re the virtues that get talked about at your funeral, the ones that exist at the core of your being.”
“What are you doing for eternity?” Tim Thune asked. “I think,” he said, “that’s always on his mind.”
"‘He’ll Do the Hard Thing’”
John Thune has often reflected on the guiding voice of his father throughout his life. “Everybody has that voice in their head,” Thune once told a reporter, referencing his father's influence in his decision-making.
Harold Thune was born in Mitchell, South Dakota, in 1919. The son of an immigrant from Norway, he grew up in a small, rural town where community ties were fiercely strong. A talented basketball player during his youth, he later became a Navy pilot in World War II, completing over 60 missions and earning the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service.
After the war, he returned to South Dakota, where he instilled strong values in his family. The Thune household was characterized by resilience and interdependence, shaped by the rugged conditions of small-town life. They lived modestly, raising five children in a small home that fostered a spirit of cooperation and connection.
John Thune was the fourth of those five children, born in 1961. Growing up in a household that valued education and community involvement, he emerged as a high-achieving student and natural leader within his school.
In high school, he excelled in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities, becoming a well-rounded individual who consistently met the expectations set by his family. “He wouldn’t have dared not be,” his English teacher remarked. Thune participated in a variety of activities, displaying talents in both sports and the arts.
As a quarterback on the football team and a leading scorer on the basketball team, Thune gained recognition not just for his athletic ability but for his collaborative spirit. His leadership style was more about teamwork than demanding authority; he found success through guiding and working alongside his peers.
Throughout his formative years, his mother encouraged a love of reading and learning, while his father emphasized the value of selflessness and teamwork. Harold Thune taught that true strength lies in the success of the collective rather than individual glory.
Despite missing a crucial last shot that led to his basketball team's defeat, Thune demonstrated resilience and humility, reflecting the teachings of his father. This strong sense of integrity guided Thune throughout his life and career.
“John has always wanted to serve and to do what’s right,” his father once told a reporter, underscoring his son’s commitment to doing the right thing, even when faced with challenges.
“John’s a Follower”
In the mid-’80s, John Thune began his political career as an eager aide to Senator James Abdnor before eventually running for Congress himself in 1996. “There’s an old saying that organizational change comes from gentle pressure relentlessly applied,” he noted, highlighting his approach to encourage cooperation and incremental change.
In 2002, Thune lost a close Senate race to incumbent Democrat Tim Johnson. Rather than challenge the results, he chose not to initiate a lengthy and contentious recount process. “He competes. I mean, he competes,” said Karl Adam, a longtime Thune friend. “But John’s not a disruptor.” Thune set himself up for a potential future run by taking the loss in stride.
Two years later, he faced off against then-Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle. Initially seen as an uphill battle, Thune recognized that the race needed to be fought. “It was a race that needed to be run,” he stated. “He just felt it was the right thing to do,” said his campaign manager Dick Wadhams.
With President Bush campaigning against John Kerry in the presidential race, Thune-Daschle emerged as a pivotal Senate battle. Thune's campaign focused on the perception that Daschle had lost touch with the needs of South Dakotans. “There is negativity and partisanship going on in Washington, and Daschle has become a symbol of why things don’t get done,” he asserted in fundraising outreach.
Daschle countered Thune’s criticisms, emphasizing Thune’s prior reluctance to challenge Bush on policy issues. During a debate, Daschle claimed, “John’s a follower, and I think there’s something to be said for following, but you’ve got to be more than a follower in the United States Senate.”
Thune won the election by a narrow margin, marking a significant shift in South Dakota’s political landscape towards conservative representation. His victory not only propelled him onto the national stage but also altered the balance of power in the Senate.
In his early years in the Senate, Thune cultivated relationships with fellow members, emphasizing partnership and cooperation through social gatherings and shared experiences. He became known for his commitment to maintaining strong staff relationships, listening attentively, and fostering rapport with colleagues.
Thune actively supported John McCain in the 2008 presidential race, reflecting his belief in McCain’s vision. Despite speculation about a potential presidential run in 2012, he ultimately chose to focus on the continued development of his Senate leadership.
As Thune worked to build his influence within the Republican Party, he remained skeptical of Trump’s presidential bid in 2016, viewing it as a fleeting trend initially. However, as Trump’s campaign gained momentum, Thune acknowledged the political reality of his popularity and the impact it had on the party.
Trump’s controversial remarks drew varying levels of response from Thune. He maintained a cautious stance, ultimately supporting Trump during the election, despite earlier criticisms of Trump’s behavior. Once in office, Thune positioned himself to balance ongoing conflicts within the party while seeking to maintain an effective working relationship with the president.
Throughout Trump’s presidency, Thune navigated a series of difficult situations, often choosing a pragmatic approach over overt opposition. Some discontent brewed among party members regarding his perceived reluctance to challenge Trump directly, prompting critiques from both sides.
In the final year of Trump's term, Thune emphasized the importance of rule of law and the need for a peaceful transition of power in the wake of the 2020 election. He hesitated to endorse attempts to contest the election results, reaffirming a commitment to uphold democratic principles.
Facing a challenging political landscape, Thune grappled with the decision of whether to run for reelection in 2022. Ultimately, he chose to continue his political journey, recognizing the potential opportunity for leadership.
During the South Carolina primary, Thune initially endorsed Tim Scott, but after realizing Trump would likely secure the nomination, he subsequently endorsed Trump and announced his candidacy for Senate leadership.
Reflecting on his dual responsibilities as leader of the Senate and as a representative to the president, Thune acknowledged the complexities embedded in his role. “We’re more animated these days by the personality of Donald Trump, and that’s the reality we live with and deal with if you want to be involved in public life,” he noted.
“God wants us to be out there being salt and light in the culture,” he expressed. As he campaigned for his leadership role, he emphasized the need for an optimistic approach to governing amidst the uncertainties surrounding him.
‘My Guess Is That He’s at Least Somewhat Tortured’
In a recent discussion, Thune reflected on the values instilled in him by his father. “People I’ve talked to, Democrats, too, admire you for knowing where the line is,” I said. I asked, “Where in this moment is that line?”
“Well,” he began thoughtfully, “I mean, I think that you have to pick and choose your battles. And obviously right now I think this is an adjustment phase that we’re in. We’ve got an administration that’s incredibly aggressive, that’s moving quickly and decisively...it’s defending the prerogatives of the institution.”
As his leadership tenure progresses, Thune contemplates the impact of his actions on his legacy. With personal milestones behind him, including the losses of his parents and brother, he is mindful of the weight that public life places on individual integrity and moral conviction.
Some observers believe that Thune’s current position demands a personal reckoning as he navigates the duality of maintaining loyalty to a party while also upholding legislative responsibilities critical to democracy. “My guess is that he’s at least somewhat tortured,” observed a longtime colleague.
The shaping of his legacy remains a topic of discussion among friends and adversaries alike, with many urging him to assert his principles amid the complex dynamics of contemporary politics. “The next year or two will tell a lot about what matters to him,” suggested a former adviser.
As Thune continues to navigate the turbulent waters of leadership, he revisits the core of his character, remembering the values taught by his father. "I think sometimes what you do might be considered resume work," he reflected, "but I think how you do it is considered more eulogy work."
Thune remains acutely aware of the legacy he is building, asking, “What do you think people will say about you at your service?”
“The chapter,” he concluded, “is still being written.”In the Senate chamber, the atmosphere is electric, driven by tensions both internal and external. As John Thune scans the room, he recognizes the numerous challenges facing him—not only from political adversaries but also from within his own party. With Trump’s influence looming large, every speech and legislative decision weighs heavily. Conversations flit around him—some colleagues aligning passionately with Trump’s fervor, while others voice growing frustration with his unpredictable maneuvers.
Reflecting on his career, the rapid pace of changes in American politics has left Thune contemplating the broader implications of his legacy. Faced with the pressing question of how history will remember him, he frames his thoughts between personal integrity and political expediency. This contemplation has been sparked anew by the death of his brother, for whom he had recently mourned, a reminder of life’s fragility and the values he wishes to embody.
Thune's role puts him at a crossroads, balancing loyalty to a party that has reshaped itself under Trump with his own ideals of collaboration and integrity. As he engages with colleagues, he often aims to bridge divides, deflecting extremes while advocating for a governance style that emphasizes vision over volatility. “We’ve got to be able to function together,” he reminds fellow senators, promoting the notion that effective governance requires compromise and understanding, even when personal convictions are challenged.
Behind the polished demeanor Thune showcases in public lies a deep understanding of the historical significance of his role. Each vote he casts, each decision he impacts, contributes to a legacy that may extend well beyond his tenure. He recalls the wisdom imparted by his father, the voice in his head guiding him through these politically turbulent waters. It’s a matter, he reflects, of not just navigating the immediate landscape but also making choices that will resonate for decades.
Living in this intricate web of loyalty, ambition, and morality isn't lost on him, nor are the stakes. Opposition from Trump’s fervent supporters weighs on him as negotiations intensify within the Senate. The internal party conflicts that arise from differing values and ideologies become evident, manifesting in both formal debates and informal conversations. Thune attempts to uphold a sense of responsibility—a reminder that senators are tasked with a historic duty to protect the integrity of the institution.
The pressure from constituents in South Dakota further complicates his position. They expect him to champion their values while contending with the more extreme elements of his party. Recently, during a town hall meeting, constituents expressed their concerns about Trumps policies, emphasizing a desire for leadership that reflects their values without succumbing to extremism.
“Let’s keep our focus on what unites us rather than what divides us,” Thune often asserts during these public discussions. His consistent efforts to maintain this balance underline his understanding that within a polarized environment, crafting bipartisan solutions is essential for long-term progress. Yet, he also acknowledges that this conciliatory approach comes with trade-offs—some party members might see it as a failure to embrace the more aggressive style championed by Trump.
As he moves forward, Thune continues to confront the delicate nature of his leadership. “There’s an adjustment phase that we’re in,” he remarks, signaling his awareness of the changing dynamics in Congress. He strives to remain adaptable, recognizing that flexibility in leadership is paramount amid rapid shifts in political priorities.
In private moments with close colleagues and friends, he opens up about the increasingly polarized environment. “We’ve got to find a way to heal these divides—not just for our party, but for our country,” he explains, pointing out that the path forward requires transparency and integrity.
Despite the challenges, Thune remains hopeful—taking inspiration from his roots and the lessons imparted by his parents. He often reflects on the importance of character and how it shapes not only individual choices but the collective future of governance in America.
Yet, as he stands at this crossroads in his career, the future remains uncertain. His decisions will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of a country he deeply cares about, making the pursuit of a principled path all the more critical.
With elections on the horizon and the political landscape in flux, Thune understands that the stakes are higher than ever. “Every day, you’re trying to bend the trajectory of what you’re doing in the direction of freedom, preserving democracy, and making the world and this country a better place,” he articulates, embodying a sense of purpose that reflects the underlying motivations guiding his time in the Senate.
As Thune continues to chart his course through the ever-changing political ocean, he carries with him a wealth of experience and a clear vision rooted in his upbringing, a balance of the resume and eulogy virtues he grapples with daily. Ultimately, the chapter is still being written, and he strives to ensure that it resonates with the values he holds dear, illustrating that leadership is not just about the title—it’s about the legacy one leaves behind.
Jessica Kline for TROIB News
On the last Thursday of January, the Senate's agenda was packed with a variety of unconventional nominees that required confirmation to fill President Donald Trump's cabinet. With Democrats attempting to stall and counter in any way they could, Thune, the new majority leader, faced pressure from the more vocal Republican supporters of the president who demanded loyalty and quick action. Thune had committed to working weekends, and this weekend was no exception. Even though his brother had passed away, he made it clear that his professional obligations took precedence.
However, later that evening, Thune and top Democrat Chuck Schumer agreed to postpone their work to the following week. As a result, the Senate adjourned shortly before 8 PM, and the next morning, Thune boarded a flight to California.
He did not arrive in time for the graveside service that Friday afternoon, but later that evening, he attended a gathering at his niece's home in the Irvine area, where he listened to family members reminisce about his older brother, the first of his four siblings to pass away. Thune also shared insights from a book he had once read regarding the contrast between "resume virtues" and "eulogy virtues," as recounted by his younger brother. “John said,” Tim Thune recalled, “‘We build our lives worrying about our resume, and promoting self, and what does that look like?’ He said, ‘At the end of the day, when you’re gone, what are people going to say? How will you be remembered?’”
Given the complexities of today's political landscape, it's easy to see why such thoughts might weigh on his mind. As the Republican conference leader and the head of the Senate, Thune occupies a crucial role within one of the country’s key institutions during a pivotal time in American politics.
Having spent nearly 30 years in Washington, the 64-year-old Thune, who hails from a small-town background in South Dakota, often seems out of sync with prevailing trends. Known for his devout beliefs yet measured approach, he embodies a collaborative spirit rather than combative tendencies. A family man with two daughters and a marriage that has spanned over four decades, he is clearly conservative yet possesses a temperament that lends itself to moderation. In an era marked by rapid-fire, often reckless attacks on government and institutions, Thune stands out as a steadfast institutionalist—rarely embroiled in scandal and not often profiled despite his considerable stature. By upbringing, experience, and demeanor, he is a stark contrast to Donald Trump.
Historically, Thune has made it known that he did not favor Trump as the presidential nominee for his party. Now, he faces the ongoing challenge of determining how to navigate a political landscape increasingly dominated by a reelected and reinvigorated Trump.
As Thune reaches this professional peak, he finds himself at a personal crossroads.
Colleagues, friends, and aides speak about Thune with strong, uniform respect. “A man of integrity,” South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden remarked. He has been described as “one of the most earnest, humble, decent people I’ve ever known,” according to longtime consultant Scott Howell. Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina stated, “John’s doing a good job — a great job.” His performance is noted as “at peak performance” by Senator Steve Daines of Montana. Even GOP skeptics have acknowledged their contentment with Thune’s leadership, given his effectiveness in confirming challenging nominees like Pete Hegseth and Tulsi Gabbard.
Conversely, there exists a significant faction of Democrats and anti-Trump Republicans who expected more from him. “If there need to be Republicans in the Senate — and obviously there’s going to be — I wish they were all like John Thune,” said Drey Samuelson, former chief of staff for Tim Johnson, the last Senate Democrat from South Dakota. Samuelson expressed a sentiment shared by many who admire Thune personally while taking issue with his lack of vocal opposition to Trump.
The Senate holds a constitutional obligation not only to cooperate with the presidency but also to provide a check on detrimental partisan influences and overreach. As such, Thune’s ability to recognize and uphold this balance is critically scrutinized. “I think he respects and admires the separation of powers,” remarked Ted Muenster, a former chief of staff for Democratic Governor Richard Kneip of South Dakota. He pointed out the potential danger of Trump's quest for power, implying that Thune may have to set firm boundaries.
Those who know Thune well believe he understands where that line is drawn and will know when it is crossed. However, growing anxiety exists among those like Samuelson and Muenster, particularly given Trump’s controversial actions, including pardoning over 1,500 Jan. 6 inmates and issuing a series of executive orders that challenge the limits of presidential authority. Thune’s responses have largely been muted, suggesting at least an implicit acceptance of Trump's tactics.
“He’s going to have to pick,” Democrats like Steve Jarding warned. “If I’m John Thune, OK, I want the title — but I want a legacy,” he remarked, adding that he wouldn’t want to be remembered as a mere follower of Trump.
“It would be helpful if there were some inner turmoil,” said Mark Salter, a longtime adviser to the late John McCain. Thune’s strong conservative background may lead him to believe that he could maintain his influence while waiting for a worse scenario to arise, yet this balancing act could become increasingly difficult.
On that Saturday in California, Thune attended the memorial service for his brother. While he didn’t speak, he listened as others recounted stories about his brother as a selfless servant and devoted teacher, someone whose life was characterized by principles he held dear.
Later that day, while traveling back to Sioux Falls with his younger brother, Thune reflected once more on the distinction between “resume virtues” and “eulogy virtues,” as articulated by David Brooks in his book, *The Road to Character*. “The resume virtues are the ones you list on your resume, the skills that you bring to the job market and that contribute to external success,” Brooks wrote. “The eulogy virtues are deeper. They’re the virtues that get talked about at your funeral, the ones that exist at the core of your being.”
“What are you doing for eternity?” Tim Thune asked. “I think,” he said, “that’s always on his mind.”
"‘He’ll Do the Hard Thing’”
John Thune has often reflected on the guiding voice of his father throughout his life. “Everybody has that voice in their head,” Thune once told a reporter, referencing his father's influence in his decision-making.
Harold Thune was born in Mitchell, South Dakota, in 1919. The son of an immigrant from Norway, he grew up in a small, rural town where community ties were fiercely strong. A talented basketball player during his youth, he later became a Navy pilot in World War II, completing over 60 missions and earning the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service.
After the war, he returned to South Dakota, where he instilled strong values in his family. The Thune household was characterized by resilience and interdependence, shaped by the rugged conditions of small-town life. They lived modestly, raising five children in a small home that fostered a spirit of cooperation and connection.
John Thune was the fourth of those five children, born in 1961. Growing up in a household that valued education and community involvement, he emerged as a high-achieving student and natural leader within his school.
In high school, he excelled in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities, becoming a well-rounded individual who consistently met the expectations set by his family. “He wouldn’t have dared not be,” his English teacher remarked. Thune participated in a variety of activities, displaying talents in both sports and the arts.
As a quarterback on the football team and a leading scorer on the basketball team, Thune gained recognition not just for his athletic ability but for his collaborative spirit. His leadership style was more about teamwork than demanding authority; he found success through guiding and working alongside his peers.
Throughout his formative years, his mother encouraged a love of reading and learning, while his father emphasized the value of selflessness and teamwork. Harold Thune taught that true strength lies in the success of the collective rather than individual glory.
Despite missing a crucial last shot that led to his basketball team's defeat, Thune demonstrated resilience and humility, reflecting the teachings of his father. This strong sense of integrity guided Thune throughout his life and career.
“John has always wanted to serve and to do what’s right,” his father once told a reporter, underscoring his son’s commitment to doing the right thing, even when faced with challenges.
“John’s a Follower”
In the mid-’80s, John Thune began his political career as an eager aide to Senator James Abdnor before eventually running for Congress himself in 1996. “There’s an old saying that organizational change comes from gentle pressure relentlessly applied,” he noted, highlighting his approach to encourage cooperation and incremental change.
In 2002, Thune lost a close Senate race to incumbent Democrat Tim Johnson. Rather than challenge the results, he chose not to initiate a lengthy and contentious recount process. “He competes. I mean, he competes,” said Karl Adam, a longtime Thune friend. “But John’s not a disruptor.” Thune set himself up for a potential future run by taking the loss in stride.
Two years later, he faced off against then-Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle. Initially seen as an uphill battle, Thune recognized that the race needed to be fought. “It was a race that needed to be run,” he stated. “He just felt it was the right thing to do,” said his campaign manager Dick Wadhams.
With President Bush campaigning against John Kerry in the presidential race, Thune-Daschle emerged as a pivotal Senate battle. Thune's campaign focused on the perception that Daschle had lost touch with the needs of South Dakotans. “There is negativity and partisanship going on in Washington, and Daschle has become a symbol of why things don’t get done,” he asserted in fundraising outreach.
Daschle countered Thune’s criticisms, emphasizing Thune’s prior reluctance to challenge Bush on policy issues. During a debate, Daschle claimed, “John’s a follower, and I think there’s something to be said for following, but you’ve got to be more than a follower in the United States Senate.”
Thune won the election by a narrow margin, marking a significant shift in South Dakota’s political landscape towards conservative representation. His victory not only propelled him onto the national stage but also altered the balance of power in the Senate.
In his early years in the Senate, Thune cultivated relationships with fellow members, emphasizing partnership and cooperation through social gatherings and shared experiences. He became known for his commitment to maintaining strong staff relationships, listening attentively, and fostering rapport with colleagues.
Thune actively supported John McCain in the 2008 presidential race, reflecting his belief in McCain’s vision. Despite speculation about a potential presidential run in 2012, he ultimately chose to focus on the continued development of his Senate leadership.
As Thune worked to build his influence within the Republican Party, he remained skeptical of Trump’s presidential bid in 2016, viewing it as a fleeting trend initially. However, as Trump’s campaign gained momentum, Thune acknowledged the political reality of his popularity and the impact it had on the party.
Trump’s controversial remarks drew varying levels of response from Thune. He maintained a cautious stance, ultimately supporting Trump during the election, despite earlier criticisms of Trump’s behavior. Once in office, Thune positioned himself to balance ongoing conflicts within the party while seeking to maintain an effective working relationship with the president.
Throughout Trump’s presidency, Thune navigated a series of difficult situations, often choosing a pragmatic approach over overt opposition. Some discontent brewed among party members regarding his perceived reluctance to challenge Trump directly, prompting critiques from both sides.
In the final year of Trump's term, Thune emphasized the importance of rule of law and the need for a peaceful transition of power in the wake of the 2020 election. He hesitated to endorse attempts to contest the election results, reaffirming a commitment to uphold democratic principles.
Facing a challenging political landscape, Thune grappled with the decision of whether to run for reelection in 2022. Ultimately, he chose to continue his political journey, recognizing the potential opportunity for leadership.
During the South Carolina primary, Thune initially endorsed Tim Scott, but after realizing Trump would likely secure the nomination, he subsequently endorsed Trump and announced his candidacy for Senate leadership.
Reflecting on his dual responsibilities as leader of the Senate and as a representative to the president, Thune acknowledged the complexities embedded in his role. “We’re more animated these days by the personality of Donald Trump, and that’s the reality we live with and deal with if you want to be involved in public life,” he noted.
“God wants us to be out there being salt and light in the culture,” he expressed. As he campaigned for his leadership role, he emphasized the need for an optimistic approach to governing amidst the uncertainties surrounding him.
‘My Guess Is That He’s at Least Somewhat Tortured’
In a recent discussion, Thune reflected on the values instilled in him by his father. “People I’ve talked to, Democrats, too, admire you for knowing where the line is,” I said. I asked, “Where in this moment is that line?”
“Well,” he began thoughtfully, “I mean, I think that you have to pick and choose your battles. And obviously right now I think this is an adjustment phase that we’re in. We’ve got an administration that’s incredibly aggressive, that’s moving quickly and decisively...it’s defending the prerogatives of the institution.”
As his leadership tenure progresses, Thune contemplates the impact of his actions on his legacy. With personal milestones behind him, including the losses of his parents and brother, he is mindful of the weight that public life places on individual integrity and moral conviction.
Some observers believe that Thune’s current position demands a personal reckoning as he navigates the duality of maintaining loyalty to a party while also upholding legislative responsibilities critical to democracy. “My guess is that he’s at least somewhat tortured,” observed a longtime colleague.
The shaping of his legacy remains a topic of discussion among friends and adversaries alike, with many urging him to assert his principles amid the complex dynamics of contemporary politics. “The next year or two will tell a lot about what matters to him,” suggested a former adviser.
As Thune continues to navigate the turbulent waters of leadership, he revisits the core of his character, remembering the values taught by his father. "I think sometimes what you do might be considered resume work," he reflected, "but I think how you do it is considered more eulogy work."
Thune remains acutely aware of the legacy he is building, asking, “What do you think people will say about you at your service?”
“The chapter,” he concluded, “is still being written.”In the Senate chamber, the atmosphere is electric, driven by tensions both internal and external. As John Thune scans the room, he recognizes the numerous challenges facing him—not only from political adversaries but also from within his own party. With Trump’s influence looming large, every speech and legislative decision weighs heavily. Conversations flit around him—some colleagues aligning passionately with Trump’s fervor, while others voice growing frustration with his unpredictable maneuvers.
Reflecting on his career, the rapid pace of changes in American politics has left Thune contemplating the broader implications of his legacy. Faced with the pressing question of how history will remember him, he frames his thoughts between personal integrity and political expediency. This contemplation has been sparked anew by the death of his brother, for whom he had recently mourned, a reminder of life’s fragility and the values he wishes to embody.
Thune's role puts him at a crossroads, balancing loyalty to a party that has reshaped itself under Trump with his own ideals of collaboration and integrity. As he engages with colleagues, he often aims to bridge divides, deflecting extremes while advocating for a governance style that emphasizes vision over volatility. “We’ve got to be able to function together,” he reminds fellow senators, promoting the notion that effective governance requires compromise and understanding, even when personal convictions are challenged.
Behind the polished demeanor Thune showcases in public lies a deep understanding of the historical significance of his role. Each vote he casts, each decision he impacts, contributes to a legacy that may extend well beyond his tenure. He recalls the wisdom imparted by his father, the voice in his head guiding him through these politically turbulent waters. It’s a matter, he reflects, of not just navigating the immediate landscape but also making choices that will resonate for decades.
Living in this intricate web of loyalty, ambition, and morality isn't lost on him, nor are the stakes. Opposition from Trump’s fervent supporters weighs on him as negotiations intensify within the Senate. The internal party conflicts that arise from differing values and ideologies become evident, manifesting in both formal debates and informal conversations. Thune attempts to uphold a sense of responsibility—a reminder that senators are tasked with a historic duty to protect the integrity of the institution.
The pressure from constituents in South Dakota further complicates his position. They expect him to champion their values while contending with the more extreme elements of his party. Recently, during a town hall meeting, constituents expressed their concerns about Trumps policies, emphasizing a desire for leadership that reflects their values without succumbing to extremism.
“Let’s keep our focus on what unites us rather than what divides us,” Thune often asserts during these public discussions. His consistent efforts to maintain this balance underline his understanding that within a polarized environment, crafting bipartisan solutions is essential for long-term progress. Yet, he also acknowledges that this conciliatory approach comes with trade-offs—some party members might see it as a failure to embrace the more aggressive style championed by Trump.
As he moves forward, Thune continues to confront the delicate nature of his leadership. “There’s an adjustment phase that we’re in,” he remarks, signaling his awareness of the changing dynamics in Congress. He strives to remain adaptable, recognizing that flexibility in leadership is paramount amid rapid shifts in political priorities.
In private moments with close colleagues and friends, he opens up about the increasingly polarized environment. “We’ve got to find a way to heal these divides—not just for our party, but for our country,” he explains, pointing out that the path forward requires transparency and integrity.
Despite the challenges, Thune remains hopeful—taking inspiration from his roots and the lessons imparted by his parents. He often reflects on the importance of character and how it shapes not only individual choices but the collective future of governance in America.
Yet, as he stands at this crossroads in his career, the future remains uncertain. His decisions will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of a country he deeply cares about, making the pursuit of a principled path all the more critical.
With elections on the horizon and the political landscape in flux, Thune understands that the stakes are higher than ever. “Every day, you’re trying to bend the trajectory of what you’re doing in the direction of freedom, preserving democracy, and making the world and this country a better place,” he articulates, embodying a sense of purpose that reflects the underlying motivations guiding his time in the Senate.
As Thune continues to chart his course through the ever-changing political ocean, he carries with him a wealth of experience and a clear vision rooted in his upbringing, a balance of the resume and eulogy virtues he grapples with daily. Ultimately, the chapter is still being written, and he strives to ensure that it resonates with the values he holds dear, illustrating that leadership is not just about the title—it’s about the legacy one leaves behind.
Jessica Kline for TROIB News
