Rhoden Not What South Dakota Needs

For Immediate Release

11/18/2025

Sioux Falls, SD — Rhoden’s approach to governing is falling short of what South Dakota needs. When Larry Rhoden assumed office, many of us hoped he would bring a practical, solutions-oriented style to state government. Instead, his decisions continue to leave major challenges unaddressed.

Recently, the Governor said public schools should be “apprehensive” about expecting meaningful salary increases—remarks that came just days before he announced a new school choice program that diverts tax dollars away from public schools and toward private institutions. At a time when districts across the state are struggling to retain teachers, this sends the wrong message to educators and families.

During the last legislative session, his administration opposed Rep. Kadyn Wittman’s bill to expand access to free school lunches, claiming the state couldn’t afford the $616,000 cost. Only months later, the Governor celebrated a $63 million budget surplus raising questions about priorities when it comes to supporting South Dakota children.

The same pattern played out during the federal government shutdown. While thousands of South Dakotans faced losing SNAP benefits, other states found ways to safeguard food assistance. Governor Rhoden chose not to pursue similar solutions, leaving vulnerable families without needed support.

He also vetoed Rep. Erin Healy’s bipartisan bill to strengthen the childcare workforce legislation aimed at helping daycare providers retain staff. Childcare shortages continue to affect many South Dakota families, employers, and communities. Rather than take a step toward real relief, the Governor rejected an opportunity for progress.

Governor Rhoden’s launch of “Operation Prairie Thunder” has also created concern among immigrant families. Immigrants play an essential role in this state’s agricultural economy. While public safety is essential, large-scale federal enforcement operations can generate fear without addressing the underlying issues that communities are facing.

South Dakota needs leadership that invests in long-term prosperity, supports families, strengthens education, and confronts challenges with practical solutions-not fear, delay, or short-term political messaging. The current approach is not moving our state forward. South Dakotans deserve a future where children, workers, and communities can thrive.

For questions, please contact Dan Ahlers, Executive Director of the SD Democratic Party at dan@sddp.org or 605-940-3071.

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