Dan Ahlers the Better Choice for South Dakota

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 28th, 2026

CONTACT

Krista Burns, Communications Director

(651) 245-8731

krista@sddp.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — South Dakota is ready for change, and Dan Ahlers is the clear choice for our next Governor. Larry Rhoden will only continue holding South Dakota back from real progress. Dan Ahlers, a legislator, businessman, and community leader, brings the hands-on experience needed to lead our state with accountability, respect, and common sense.

Decades of failed GOP policies have kept South Dakota from reaching its potential — we rank last in education funding, carry some of the highest medical debt in the nation, and face a stagnant economy. As a former member of the Appropriations Committee, Ahlers knows how to balance a state budget while still investing in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. He will move South Dakota forward by investing in small businesses, making housing more affordable, and creating programs that support working families.

Rhoden has already shown he values the wealthy over hardworking families. His property tax plan offers breaks to the rich while burdening low-income South Dakotans. Ahlers will fight for wages that let South Dakotans get ahead — not just get by — invest in childcare, expand access to mental health services, and will fight to keep rural hospitals open and long-term care facilities thriving.

Rhoden also threatens public education. Last session, he proposed cuts to teachers and wants to redirect public school funding to private organizations. Ahlers will strengthen public schools, recruit and retain great teachers, expand early childhood education, and create new afterschool programs. He will also invest in school infrastructure and build real workforce pathways that prepare students for college, careers, and technical trades.

"If you finally want to see affordable homes, easier access to healthcare, and better wages, Dan's got your back," said SDDP Deputy Director Joe Zweifel. "Decades of Republican control have gotten South Dakota nowhere. The last time a Democrat was in charge, we invested in healthcare and brought transparency and accountability to the state budget — that's the kind of leadership we need again. Do you want an end to divisive politics? Vote for Dan. Do you want good-paying jobs in your city? Vote for Dan. Do you want a leader who will actually listen to your concerns? Vote for Dan."

To learn more about Dan Ahlers and his plans to move South Dakota forward, visit danahlers.com.

Paid for by the South Dakota Democratic Party | www.sddp.org