Had to run up to Fargo yesterday, so I’m just getting to do some processing on the photos I snapped at the GOP Picnic Friday night. If I didn’t get a photo of you, it’s nothing personal. These are what turned out the best..
And a photo of all the Legislators and elected officials in attendance with Jim Gilkerson, GOP County Chair:
This past Friday, State Representative Taffy Howard spoke at the Brookings County Picnic with a message that she’s “seriously considering” a run for Congress, along with some messaging on immigration and border security. In case you’d like to watch for yourself, I have it here:
And it’s interesting that the message coming from Taffy is that she’s “considering” a race, because that same non-committal message about not being in fully is what she’s putting out across the state, as we’re hearing it in more than one place. From the Rapid City Journal this weekend comes an interview with reporter Abby Wargo where Taffy Howard tries to tamp down stories that “she’s running” by telling the Journal that she’s just “exploring.”
Despite that filing with the Federal Elections Commission:
Taffy Howard, a representative in the state House since 2017, is considering challenging U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson in the primary to represent the Republican Party in the 2022 election.
The Rapid City woman has told the Journal there’s “nothing official” about her candidacy and that she is still exploring her options. On Aug. 3, however, she filed a statement of organization with the Federal Elections Commission for a “Taffy Howard for Congress” committee.
She re-filed paperwork on Aug. 12 with the FEC, switching her campaign treasurer from Dianne Nelson to State Rep. Rhonda Milstead, R-Hartford.
Howard told the Journal on Friday that filing with the FEC “does open up more possibilities for fundraising.”
“It’s opened doors to meeting more people and gauging my level of support. It’s been great so far to open up those doors, talk with more folks and see what their sense is. The response has been overwhelmingly good,” she said.
Wait, what? So, she files a statement of organization with the Federal Elections Commission, sets up a bank account, has a consultant from out of state working on her campaign, names a treasurer, and doesn’t just name the treasurer, but goes back and switches treasurers?
But, she’s still exploring her options?
How about a few other tidbits I’m hearing. Such as the fact that Rhonda Milstead is not the only legislator she asked to be her campaign treasurer.
I’m also hearing there’s potentially an out-of-state consulting firm involved with her race already. In addition to Zach Lautenschlager over in Colorado serving as her primary campaign contact.
And there’s also this..
A website to take donations and attack her opponent. That directly says “Taffy Howard for Congress.”
Maybe it’s my cynicism, but this doesn’t sound like someone who is “considering” or “simply exploring” a race.
The Fight to Save the Farm
By Sen. John Thune
The long, sun-soaked days of summer have started to shorten, and for kids across the country that can only mean one thing: back to school. In suburban communities or coastal cities, the end of summer might signal the end of family beach trips or days spent lounging by the pool. But for farm families in South Dakota, it unfortunately means one less set of hands – or more – to help with the seemingly endless tasks of summer.
Picking rock with your sister, moving cows, fixing fence with grandpa, and long days in the field eating lunch – and probably supper – in the cab of a tractor is the summertime norm for most farm kids. It’s what their parents and their parents’ parents likely did too – even without the luxury of an air-conditioned cab. From a very young age, kids in rural America are taught to understand the value of a hard day’s work. No one thinks twice about getting their hands dirty. It’s exactly what the generations before them worked so hard to preserve through all of the ups and downs that exist on a family farm.
If you grew up in a rural community like the ones scattered throughout South Dakota you might be surprised that Democrats in Washington are now proposing tax cuts for coastal elites and all the free stuff you can imagine by taxing this way of life – your way of life. It’s becoming clear that for Washington Democrats success and hard work isn’t something to be celebrated, but something that should be taxed.
Our current tax code provides for something called “step-up in basis.” That’s Washington jargon for this: If you’re left something by a loved one who died – whether that’s land or a house – the value of that item is automatically “stepped up” from its original value to its current market value when you receive it. You don’t have to pay taxes on that increase, and you shouldn’t have to. Those gains over time are often unrealized. In other words, you didn’t profit from the increased value while the asset remained in the family. It allows your grandparents and parents to pass the family operation from one generation to the next without penalty. Unfortunately, Democrats want to get rid of this longstanding tax policy, but not if I have anything to do with it.
During my time in Congress, I have helped lead the fight against the death tax. And now I am doing the same with what would amount to a double death tax on South Dakota’s family-run farms, ranches, and small businesses.
I recently introduced an amendment to the Democrats’ budget blueprint to highlight the importance of preventing this double death tax from becoming law. It was approved 99 to 0, and I’m glad all of my Democrat colleagues acknowledged how problematic this change in law could be, but don’t be fooled by their vote. Unfortunately, immediately after passing my bipartisan amendment, all but one Democrat also voted for a watered down version. Long story short, they’re doing legislative gymnastics and trying to have it both ways, and if they get their way, I have no doubt it will be a death blow to rural communities in South Dakota.
Now, summertime in these rural communities isn’t all work and no play. There is 4-H and rodeo, fairs to showcase art, produce, and livestock. Maybe there’s a baseball or softball game, too. But the fun stuff usually comes after the days’ chores are done. Life typically revolves around family and community, and it is all underpinned by hard work and sacrifice.
Farming and ranching isn’t just an occupation, it’s a way of life for the whole family, and it is one to be proud of. And as far as I am concerned, Democrats in Washington could stand to learn a few of these lessons from the heartland.
This fight is far from over. I will continue to do everything in my power to stop the Democrats’ attempt to fund a reckless tax-and-spending spree on the backs of hardworking South Dakota families, farmers, and ranchers. The South Dakota way of life, and the preservation of the family farm, is certainly something worth fighting for. I always will.
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Work is Opportunity
By Rep. Dusty Johnson
August 12, 2021
Like many South Dakotans, I grew up in a working-class family where the value of hard work was instilled in me at a young age. The ability to earn an income and support your family is one of the greatest opportunities America has to offer.
The COVID-19 pandemic hindered this opportunity as businesses and schools closed across the country and many families found themselves hard-pressed financially.
The federal government took unprecedented steps to ensure that those who were most affected by the pandemic could receive assistance. Bipartisan supported programs like the Paycheck Protection Program were temporarily enacted to keep employees on payroll and help those most in need.
Now, in the midst of reopening our nation’s economy, many of the temporary changes are still in place a year and a half later and hindering our recovery efforts.
The following policies are keeping people from returning to work:
There is simply no incentive to work when social safety net programs make it more lucrative to stay at home. This is evident in the fact that the labor participation rate remains near peak-pandemic levels.
However, there was good news this month. After half of the nation’s Republican governors ended the extra federal unemployment benefit, the July jobs report did show a lower unemployment rate than past months.
According to a study by the Foundation for Government Accountability, unemployment claims have declined by 30% in states like South Dakota where additional unemployment benefits have ended. Meanwhile, in states that have kept federal unemployment benefits, new unemployment claims continue to rise. The data doesn’t lie – taking away the incentive curbs unemployment and gets people back to work. That’s why I’ll continue to push my Get Americans Back to Work plan which would end the additional federal supplemental unemployment payment across the board.
The American dream is built on the notion that anyone can succeed if they work hard. Work should not be viewed as a punishment, but rather a way forward.
Work yields opportunity, work enriches communities, and work leads to a more prosperous nation.
Our government should encourage work, rather than disincentivize it.
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If you recall several days back when I wrote about a social media post from former legislative candidate Joel Koskan against public broadcasting’s funding, the issue seems to have come up again.
Except this time, it’s coming from close to the top as a member of Governor Kristi Noem’s staff mentions that it could be an issue in the near future:
When reached for comment on the governor’s stance regarding SDPB’s funding, Noem’s Communication Director Ian Fury credited the idea’s discussion with SDPB “supporting radical ideology,” but avoided saying the governor supported cutting funding now.
“We’re not surprised to see citizens and legislators voicing their opposition to SDPB supporting radical ideology,” Fury said. “Ibram Kendi and out-of-state professional activists do not represent the values of South Dakotans. SDPB should challenge those individuals on-air for their radical liberal and Marxist beliefs, not give them a free pass from critique. SDPB can do better.”
Secretary Mike Leidholt Announces Retirement
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, South Dakota Secretary of Corrections Mike Leidholt announced his retirement. Governor Kristi Noem issued the following statement:
“I am grateful to Mike for his service to South Dakota and our Department of Corrections. While it is now clear the issues at the Penitentiary were the responsibility of others, I believe new leadership is needed to address the ongoing challenges in our prison system. I wish Mike well in his retirement after more than four decades of service in South Dakota law enforcement.”
With 43 years as a law enforcement specialist, including 24 years as Hughes County Sheriff, Secretary Leidholt provided valuable experience in leading the Department of Corrections. He also is a past president of the South Dakota Sheriffs’ Association, the National Sheriffs’ Association, and the Dakota Territory Sheriffs’ Association.
Secretary Leidholt’s announcement comes of the heels of the department’s announcement that it will begin a third-party review of practices across the system. The governor has targeted improving standards, increasing recruitment efforts, and implementing new protocols to address the safety of inmates and staff. Tim Reisch will continue his role as interim secretary until a permanent replacement is announced.
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Christopher Vondracek, South Dakota Correspondent for Forum News, just posted a story writing about Governor Kristi Noem that was somewhat complimentary. Except for that part where he just wrote what he wanted and wasn’t worried about facts that have been out there for a week or more.
It’s the “will do” that is keeping people guessing. Noem has notched national TV spots, and traveled to fundraisers in Wyoming, Texas, and Florida. She’s given speeches in Iowa and Minnesota and campaigned last fall in New Hampshire.
These are the places one would go if they were running for president, not South Dakota governor. But, so far, Noem insists she has her eyes on a 2022 gubernatorial campaign, not the White House.
But if Noem does look to pivot toward a more Trumpian brand, she could do worse than take a trip down Vanocker Canyon or attend a charity auction in Deadwood, where Noem T-shirts now hang in stores.
And then we get to this part, which he just made it up as he went along.
And at least by mid-August, the ride is smooth for Noem. Pierre isn’t in session till next year. Democrats still lack a challenger. And the state just purchased the jet Noem requested and legislators approved.
Wait, what? The problem with that jet thing, is that it just didn’t happen. From August 5th:
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem’s purchase of an updated state airplane was completed Thursday, with the state opting for a bigger, faster and newer turboprop after some lawmakers questioned whether she was hoping to buy a jet.
The Department of Transportation completed the purchase of a 2015 Beechcraft King Air 350 for about $4.5 million, spokesman Ian Fury confirmed. The aircraft, which holds up to nine passengers, is marketed to business executives with pull-out work tables, a built-in refreshment center and onboard Wi-Fi.
I’m sure saying the state purchased the jet she requested flows much better in a sentence than stating the state updated to a newer turboprop airplane. The problem is that those are two entirely different things, especially after there was a big folderol during the legislative session over the whole topic.
But, another day, another example of how the press sometimes behaves when it comes to Kristi Noem.
I mean, we wouldn’t want our media reporting accurately about the Governor or anything.
Governor Noem Accepting Applications for Fall and Spring Interns
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem is now accepting applications for the Governor’s Office fall 2021 and Spring 2022 internship programs.
Student interns will work with staff on various projects depending on interests and strengths. Additional duties include aiding the governor’s general counsel, constituent services, and communications team; conducting policy research; preparing policy briefings; and staffing events. Internships provide students with first-hand knowledge of the state government and the functions of a governor’s office.
College students who would like to be considered for an internship should submit a resume, cover letter, and letter of recommendation to [email protected]. Applications for fall interns should be submitted by Friday, August 27, 2021. Applications for spring interns should be submitted by Friday, November 26, 2021.
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They Come to Sturgis (and South Dakota) for Freedom
By: Governor Kristi Noem
August 13, 2021
The Sturgis Rally is one of the biggest gatherings for motorcycle enthusiasts in the world. While the rally has always promoted an independent spirit, these past two years have taken on a new meaning of freedom.
The Sturgis Rally is about hopping on your bike and exploring this great country through our open roads. Bikers come here because they want to be here. And we love to see them!
Outside of the Fourth of July, the Sturgis Rally must be one of the most iconic celebrations of freedom in the country. And where better to celebrate than in South Dakota, the freest state in the nation?
While the rally has yet to end – the last day is August 15th – the numbers have already shown that we are on pace to far surpass our 2020 attendance. This is on the heels of what has been the best tourism season ever for South Dakota. Record numbers of Americans are flocking to the Mount Rushmore state, seeking small towns, state parks, and national monuments as their chosen destination.
Many of the visitors to whom I’ve spoken say they’re coming to South Dakota specifically because it reminds them of the America they grew up in. Free. Independent. Unburdened by the constraints and headaches that big cities and liberal ideology force upon them.
Mount Rushmore is certainly one of the most recognized symbols in America. But few know our state’s motto: Under God the People Rule. That’s an easy standard to live and serve under. The rights of individuals are what birthed this nation, and that independent spirit is what drove America to become the leader of not just the free world, but the whole world.
And it’s that same spirit that is driving South Dakota tourism and business growth, making us the number one state in the nation for GDP growth. At the same time, we currently have some of the lowest COVID case numbers in the country. We have also worked hard with counselors to provide services for substance abusers, leading the nation in decreasing the number of deaths from overdose by 15.9 percent.
These are all signs that what we are doing in South Dakota is working and helping our citizens.
And yet, bureaucrats in Washington, D.C. and the media cast aspersions on the Sturgis Rally while ignoring concertgoers, lavish birthday parties, and the continuing crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border. It’s a double standard that gives a free pass to so-called elites to do as they please and mandate others to do as they say. It’s a failure in leadership on their part and why more and more Americans are fleeing big cities and blue states for places like South Dakota.
As South Dakota’s governor, I have remained within the bounds of my authority and empowered citizens and businesses to make decisions for themselves. Rather than mandating they do as I say, I have chosen to let people take personal responsibility for decisions the government has no authority to make. There’s a risk associated with everything that we do in life. Bikers like those attending the Rally this year get that better than anyone.
It’s no surprise that when I rode my horse through downtown Deadwood at the start of the Legends Ride on Monday, I was greeted with cheers for freedom and for the American flag I carried. At that same event, we auctioned off a painting and that flag I carried for a total of $80,000 to support the Treasured Lives charity, which helps victims of human trafficking.
This trip to Sturgis and the Rally was one to remember. When the auction was over, I hopped on a motorcycle and helped lead 300 bikers on a ride from Deadwood to the Buffalo Chip in Sturgis, where the celebration of freedom continued.
Under God, the people rule – and ride free on the open roads of South Dakota!
This column originally appeared as an op-ed on FoxNews.com
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From facebook comes a sighting of our Governor at the Buffalo Chip Campground during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. But we also get a quick peek at Beth Hollatz behind the curtain:
If you’re not familiar, Deputy Chief of Staff Beth Hollatz has been with Governor Noem since she was Congresswoman Noem. Beth is arguably her right hand and closest confidant, as well as being one of the nicest people you’d meet.