Helene Duhamel announces re-election for South Dakota Senate
After a productive 2026 legislative session, Helene Duhamel announced her candidacy for re-election to the South Dakota Senate, representing District 32 in Rapid City.
“We achieved major wins for South Dakota, Rapid City, and Box Elder this session, and I was proud to play a leadership role,” said Duhamel. “As the prime sponsor, I secured $8 million in funding to repair and improve roads around Ellsworth Air Force Base in preparation for the arrival of the new B-21 bomber.”
Duhamel also highlighted another milestone: “For the first time, we set aside $3 million in a water savings account to prepare for South Dakota’s long-term needs. Western South Dakota faces ongoing water shortages, and with continued growth on the horizon, we must plan ahead so our children and grandchildren can thrive in this dry region of our state.”
She further noted success in securing low-interest loans for the Rapid City and Sioux Falls airports, calling them vital to the state’s economy. “These two airports serve 95–98% of South Dakotans, and they’re essential to our tourism industry. This investment in transportation infrastructure benefits all of us.”
“It remains my great honor to serve and represent my fellow citizens in the South Dakota Senate,” Duhamel said. “I ask for your continued trust and support. I will keep working hard, listening to every perspective, and doing what’s best for the great state of South Dakota.”
A fifth-generation South Dakotan and longtime broadcaster, Duhamel was first appointed to the Senate in 2019 and has since been re-elected three times. She balances her legislative duties with a full-time position at the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office.
Duhamel currently serves on the Senate Judiciary, Local Government, and Agriculture & Natural Resources committees. A pro-business Republican, she is recognized by Elevate Rapid City for her consistent support of smart growth in western South Dakota. Her top priorities include public safety, good wages, workforce housing, and quality education.
Duhamel, 63, is married and the proud mother of three children and two grandchildren.
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Helene is the real deal. She is one of the hardest working legislators there ever was. She not only shows up every day, she does her homework and is knowledgeable and genuine. Her positive attitude is infectious and can be seen in other legislators she serves with. She is a fighter who never gives up.
Go Helene!!
Helene is the real deal. Looking forward to another opportunity to knock on doors for one of South Dakota’s finest. She has a primary, so please help if you can.
Helene is an outstanding legislator, and I am proud to call her a dear friend!! 😊😊
Helene is a great Senator and an even better friend. She is also a tireless advocate for Western South Dakota.