In a recent conversation that reflected both personal struggles and political ambitions, South Dakota’s Senator Mike Rounds opened up about his journey through loss and how it shapes his approach to governance. With President Trump’s second term underway and Congress in full swing, Rounds is determined to prioritize meaningful changes both on the Senate floor and in the lives of everyday Americans.
During his candid chat with CBN News’ Michelle London, Rounds emphasized the central role family plays in his life. “I’m a family man,” he said, reflecting on the importance of his relationships. Coming from a large clan himself, he now has four children and 11 grandchildren, whom he cherishes deeply. Yet, amidst the warmth of family ties, Rounds has faced profound personal grief. The senator shared that he lost his wife, Jean, to sarcoma in November 2021. This loss, he noted, is a life-altering experience that profoundly impacts one’s identity. He expressed how, even in their darkest moments, they held onto hope, grasping at the belief that she was “going to be in a better place.”
Addressing the healing process, Rounds highlighted the significance of faith in navigating his grief. He remarked, “It has to do with faith. You recognize that the loss is there, but you also know that you have a role to play moving forward.” For him, participation in Bible study and prayer groups has fostered a sense of community and connection, cutting through party divisions. He believes that this fellowship brings everyone closer, a necessity in today’s politically charged environment.
On the political front, Rounds has been actively re-engaging with the legislative agenda. Expounding on his role in the 119th Congress, he discussed recent initiatives, including reintroducing the Whole Home Repairs Act, aimed at assisting those in need of home repairs. He noted that this proposal could offer vital services to homeowners on tight budgets or small-scale landlords. The plan targets crucial repairs—everything from roofing to plumbing—enabling families to sustain their living conditions.
In a bold move toward education reform, Rounds recently advocated for the elimination of the Department of Education, proposing that states should take charge. He made it clear that his intention isn’t to undermine education for vulnerable populations, but rather to empower local agencies. “Our goal was not to hurt people,” he said, insisting that transferring funds to states as block grants would be a more effective strategy than the current federal oversight.
As he navigates through his role as a senator, Rounds offered valuable advice to newcomers: “Don’t assume that just because a person is of one party that they’re the enemy.” He believes it’s essential for legislators to remember that compromise is foundational to governance. Despite the partisan divisions that often overshadow political discourse, Rounds emphasized that the diversity of thought and collaboration were vital for effective decision-making.
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