John Thune

Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) on Wednesday said concerns over deficit spending have prompted Senate Democrats into taking a serious look at his fully paid-for substitute tax extender bill.

"We have had a number of inquiries — quiet inquiries from Democrats who are interested in it and want to fund out more about it," he told reporters.

Senate Republicans sought to paint Democrats as profligate spenders, as they unveiled an alternative Thursday to a Democrat- backed bill to extend jobless benefits and expired tax breaks.

Like the Democratic bill, the GOP alternative from Sen. John Thune (R., S.D.) would extend federal unemployment benefits through November and renew the tax cuts for businesses and individuals.

Excellence, character and service - those make a strong leader, said U.S. Sen. John Thune.

Thune shared this with Boys State attendees, whom he called future leaders, on Tuesday at the Northern State University Johnson Fine Arts Center. This week, 435 South Dakota boys are in Aberdeen for Boys State, which is in its 68th year.

He believes there's relief in sight for biodiesel producers. Sen. John Thune, (R) South Dakota:"It could happen in the next few weeks, if Congress, when they get back, the House passed legislation before they went out. The senate will have to take it up when we get back. I could see something happening that would get that done in the next, we're out of session this week, but hopefully in the next two or three weeks."

Thune is prepared to vote for renewal of the tax credit, which he sees as vital to the survival of this emerging industry.

“I really believe that we’re here for a reason,” Thune said, speaking to a Girls State assembly in the Muenster University Center. “And sometimes it’s a short window of time we have to really have an impact. What we all should want to do is take those abilities we’ve been given, and put them to their highest and best use, and try to have a positive impact on the world around you, and for future generations.”