politics
President Trump Greets Senate Majority Leader Thune at Ellsworth Air Force Base
President Donald Trump arrived in South Dakota on July 3, 2026, and exchanged greetings with Senate Majority Leader John Thune before delivering remarks at Mount Rushmore. The visit occurred on the eve of Independence Day amid prior legislative friction.
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President Donald Trump arrived on Air Force One at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota on Friday, July 3, 2026, and greeted Senate Majority Leader John Thune upon exiting the aircraft. Washington Examiner reported that the two exchanged friendly greetings ahead of Trump's remarks at Mount Rushmore. Thune stated he was looking forward to joining the president at the monument.
He added that there is no place he would rather celebrate America’s 250th birthday than in South Dakota, noting that fireworks are back at Mount Rushmore with the Black Hills and a clear South Dakota sky as backdrop. White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson said Trump has enjoyed working closely with Thune and Senate Republicans.
She cited collaboration on nominee confirmations, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed last summer, and the Secure America Act that funds border security, adding that the administration looks forward to continuing those relationships.
Thune told the Washington Examiner that he thinks the bipartisan housing bill is a big win and hopes President Trump will eventually sign it. Thune will hold his Senate seat until 2029.
