Sen. John Thune used his first few minutes of floor time to make a commitment to defend the filibuster rule, which requires at least 60 votes to pass Senate legislation.

WASHINGTON (AP) — New Senate Majority Leader John Thune is kicking off the new session with a promise to preserve the filibuster, saying in his first floor speech as leader that his priority will be to “ensure the Senate stays the Senate.”

Thune promises to be a moderating force in government as Republicans attempt to pursue an aggressive agenda in the wake of Trump’s victory.