Challenges in the Life of John Thune in a Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 6, 2026

Life is full of challenges, and John Thune faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

John Thune is a Republican politician currently serving as a U.S. Senator for South Dakota since 2005. Before joining the Senate, Thune was a U.S. Representative for South Dakota's at-large district. He holds the position of Senate Republican Leader, a role he assumed in January 2025.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

October 3, 2017: Comments on Las Vegas Mass Shooting

On October 3, 2017, in response to the mass shooting in Las Vegas, John Thune stated that the shooter appeared to have used conversion kits to make the weapons more lethal. He emphasized the importance of taking personal precautions in an open society.

March 2019: Vote Against Green New Deal Resolution

In March 2019, John Thune voted against the Green New Deal resolution along with all Senate Republicans, three Democrats, and an independent. He argued that the implementation of the resolution would be "absolutely be devastating and disastrous" for the agriculture economy in both South Dakota and across the United States.

December 2020: Opposition to Challenging 2020 Election Results

In December 2020, John Thune publicly stated his opposition to further efforts to challenge the results of the 2020 presidential election, predicting such efforts would fail in the Senate.

January 6, 2021: Denouncement of Trump's Role in January 6th Riot

On January 6, 2021, John Thune denounced then-President Donald Trump for attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 election and for his role in the riot at the Capitol. He described Trump's involvement and that of the rioters as "inexcusable".

2022: Twitter Attack by Donald Trump

In 2022, following John Thune's denouncement of attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 election, then-President Donald Trump attacked Thune on Twitter and publicly called on South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem to challenge him in a U.S. Senate primary.