Dan Kippley Announces Candidacy for South Dakota Senate, District 13

Dan Kippley Announces Candidacy for South Dakota Senate, District 13

 SIOUX FALLS, SD – Dan Kippley, a longtime business and community leader, has announced his candidacy for the South Dakota Senate to represent District 13.

“I’m running because I believe Sioux Falls deserves leadership that brings people together and focuses on practical solutions, not division,” Kippley said. “Our community is growing, and we need thoughtful, responsible leadership that puts students, families, and taxpayers first.”

Kippley brings more than 40 years of experience in business and economic development, including work with the South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development, Leading Business Development at Knife River, and growing client portfolios as a business consultant. As a community leader, he has dedicated his time to mentoring students, young business professionals, supporting local nonprofits, and serving in volunteer leadership roles with organizations such as Downtown Rotary and the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce.

Kippley says his campaign is centered on three core priorities that reflect the needs of District 13:

• Strong Schools and Workforce Readiness – Supporting quality K–12 education, respecting parental choice, and strengthening career and technical pathways that prepare students for real-world
• Smart Growth and a Strong Local Economy – Promoting intentional infrastructure and economic development so local businesses and families can thrive together.
• Fiscal Responsibility with Integrity and Transparency – Ensuring tax dollars are spent wisely, budgets are accountable, and property taxes are kept in check by prioritizing core state needs.

“Education works best when we put students and families first,” Kippley said. “Our teachers, parents, and school leaders should be treated as partners. We can strengthen accountability without tearing down public education, and we can support opportunity without creating division in our community.”

Beyond education, Kippley emphasizes the importance of responsible economic growth and infrastructure planning as Sioux Falls continues to expand.

“A strong economy creates opportunity, supports our schools, and keeps Sioux Falls one of the best places in America to live and work,” he said. “That means investing in roads, bridges, and public safety while making sure growth happens in an orderly and sustainable way.”

Kippley also points to his business background as preparation for legislative service.

“With more than four decades of experience managing budgets and building organizations, I understand the importance of setting priorities and living within our means,” he said. “Taxpayers deserve leadership that is honest, accountable, and focused on results.”

Kippley is a graduate of South Dakota State University with degrees in economics and speech communications. Family is one of the things motivating Dan to run. He knows how important every dollar is to families right now and wants to provide transparency and accountability in how taxpayer dollars are spent.

“You have my word that I will be a voice for students, families, small businesses, and taxpayers in Pierre,” Kippley said. “Together, we can build a future with strong schools, a thriving business community, and opportunity for every family in Sioux Falls. It’s time for a change.”

The Republican primary election will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.