SD Dems Begin Countdown to McGovern Day

Last Updated on Thursday, 11 March 2010 12:58

The South Dakota Democratic Party began its month-long countdown to McGovnern Day, encouraging Democrats from South Dakota to mark their calendars and make plans to attend. Named in honor of one of South Dakota’s most famous Democrats, this annual event will be held this year in Rapid City at the Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn, starting with a kick-off concert Friday, April 9th at the Journey Museum, followed by organizational meetings Saturday, April 10th, culminating in an awards gala and banquet that evening. The purpose of McGovern Day is to begin planning in advance of the South Dakota Democratic Party State Convention at the end of June, as well as provide networking, fundraising and social opportunities for from across the state.

There are 194,788 registered Democrats in South Dakota today.  Since 2006, Democratic and Independent registration has increased while Republican registration has decreased.  This past year, the SD Democratic Party recognized the growing Independent movement in South Dakota and opened its primaries to Independents.

This year McGovern Day will continue to embrace an open government spirit, and seek to include a diverse array of individuals to give input towards developing the party’s platform. We encourage all Democrats in our state, regardless of your level of previous involvement, to consider joining us at McGovern Day to make your voice heard.

In a change from previous years, the party will unofficially determine its nominees for constitutional candidates at McGovern Day this year. While candidates for constitutional offices will not be officially nominated until the state party convention at the end of June, this approach will allow them to begin organizing and fundraising earlier.

Individuals interested in attending McGovern Day are encouraged to contact Erin at 605-271-5405. Hotel reservations can be made at the event site, the Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn, by calling 605-348-4000 and asking for a reservation as part of the McGovern Day block of rooms. Also, the SDDP will be counting down to McGovern Day on its Facebook and Twitter page, providing interesting facts and McGovern Day planning information on a daily basis.