Mr. President, I rise today to express my concerns with the U.S. Postal Service operations in South Dakota, my home State. Over the past year or so, my team has heard from thousands of South Dakotans expressing their frustrations and, frankly, anger about poor mail delivery in our State. We have heard from veterans who are not getting their medication on time; we have heard from individuals who are having to pay late fees because their bills arrive the day they are due; and we have heard from people who simply aren't getting their mail delivered, even though they can see on the Postal Service…
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatR+44$1.9M raised
Mike Rounds
Senator · South Dakota · Republican
Mike Rounds
Senate Floor
Recent comments in the Senate
Mr. President, I rise today to express my concerns with the U.S. Postal Service operations in South Dakota, my home State. Over the past year or so, my team has heard from thousands of South Dakotans expressing their frustrations and, frankly, anger about poor mail delivery in our State. We have heard from veterans who are not getting their medication on time; we have heard from individuals who are having to pay late fees because their bills arrive the day they are due; and we have heard from people who simply aren't getting their mail delivered, even though they can see on the Postal Service…
Mr. President, I rise today to honor the life and service of Frank Tedeschi, who passed away on July 9, 2026. Frank served as a dedicated soldier, extraordinary public servant, and a true patriot. His contributions to our Nation's national defense were tremendously significant. While the American public may never know of his accomplishments, our country is safer and stronger because of his commitment, integrity, and tireless work. Frank's journey of service began in uniform. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as an enlisted soldier and an officer.
Biography
Mike Rounds, a former insurance executive and small business owner, was elected as U.S. Senator for South Dakota in 2014. He prioritizes agricultural policy, rural economic development, and national security, reflecting the needs of his largely rural state. Rounds has served on the Senate Armed Services and Banking Committees and played a key role in advancing the 2018 Farm Bill. He is known for his pragmatic approach and consistent efforts to ensure South Dakotans’ voices are represented in federal policy decisions.
Education
- B.S. in Political Science, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD1977
Professional History
U.S. Senator
2015–PresentSenator from South Dakota. 2 terms.
Governor of South Dakota
2003–2011Served as the 31st governor of South Dakota, winning election in 2002 and reelection in 2006.
Chair, Midwestern Governors Association
2008Served as chair of the regional association of Midwestern state governors while governor of South Dakota.
Member, Governors' Council, Bipartisan Policy Center
Served on the Bipartisan Policy Center's Governors' Council during his tenure as governor of South Dakota.
State Senator, South Dakota Senate (District 24)
1991–2001Represented a district based in Pierre, covering Hughes, Lyman, Stanley, and Sully counties.
Senate Majority Leader, South Dakota Senate
1995–2001Selected by his peers as Senate Majority Leader after previously serving as Senate Minority Whip beginning in 1993.
Policy Focus
Armed Forces and National Security13%
Agriculture and Food10%
Finance and Financial Sector8%
Native Americans6%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Mike Rounds's record in Congress.
Veterans' Health Care
Co-sponsored and helped pass the VA MISSION Act to improve veterans' access to private health care providers.
Rural Water Infrastructure
Secured federal funding for the Lewis & Clark Regional Water System to expand clean water access in South Dakota.
Cybersecurity Policy
Chaired the Senate Armed Services Cybersecurity Subcommittee, advancing policies to strengthen U.S. cyber defense capabilities.
Indian Health Service Reform
Introduced legislation to improve accountability and quality of care within the Indian Health Service in South Dakota.
Committee Assignments
View details →- Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs
- Senate Committee on Armed Services
- Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe
- Senate Committee on Indian Affairs
- Senate Select Committee on Intelligence
- Senate Committee on Appropriations
Sen. Mike Rounds FAQ
Reach South Dakota Lawmakers
Senator Rounds focuses on Armed Forces and National Security, Agriculture and Food and Finance and Financial Sector. Deliver personalized constituent letters to South Dakota's federal, state, and local officials — live in under five minutes.
Grassroots advocacy & legislator intelligence. Used by nonprofits, associations, and GR firms nationwide.
Start a Campaign