Jim Hood, who has served for many session in Pierre as a Lobbyist, has announced his retirement as a lobbyist as recently noted by Bob Mercer. But before he was a lobbyist, Jim was a State Representative and served as Speaker of the House of Representatives.
It’s noteworthy to me, as back before that, Representative Hood was the chair of the Judiciary Committee, which I where I met him as I was assigned as his legislative Intern for the 1988 Legislative session.
What can I tell you about my memories of my brief time working with him? I can honestly say that former Representative Hood is as genuine a person as you’d ever meet. A gentlemen from a time when politics were a bit more convivial than they seem to be in this day and age where elbows seem to be sharper, and people can be a bit more grouchy. He acted with fairness, and treated everyone the same, whether they were a captain of industry, or an intern as green as the grass on the lawn.
Congratulations on your retirement Jim. And best wishes for a happy one, very much deserved.
Amen. Jim is one of the good guys. Happy retirement
Lee you are not replaceable. I keep thinking you will be on the ballot again.
I agree the legislature, your district and South Dakotans need you. Run Lee Run!
“treated everyone the same, whether they were a captain of industry, or an intern as green as the grass on the lawn.”
Ditto.
As a Legislator, you quickly learn who the lobbyists are that you can trust. Jim was always one who when he told you something, you could take it to the bank. We’re going to miss you Jim! Enjoy your well earned retirement!
I agree with Rep. Wiladson, Jim is top shelf. Beyond that as a former Legislator he had valuable experience which he appropriately shared. Seeing good lobbyists retire is almost worse than term limits for Legislators. Enjoy your retirement, Buddy.