From the Washington Reporter, President Trump has nothing but praise for the job that Senator & Majority Leader John Thune is doing in Washington:
As America careens towards the second month of the Schumer Shutdown, the Washington Reporter’s sources on the Hill have been remarking about the strength of the relationship between President Donald Trump and Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R., S.D.) — which was recently put on full display when the White House invited Thune and Senate Republicans over for lunch.
and..
“I want to thank the outstanding leadership team,” Trump told the assembled senators, “and you really do have that. Majority Leader John Thune, who’s been my friend. He really has done an amazing job. Thank you, John. Thank you…I didn’t get to know John as well in the first term, and I’ve gotten to know him very well over the last nine months, John, and you’re doing a fantastic job.”
and..
Thune’s partnership with Trump has cemented his status as the head of the Senate GOP, but it is also paying off for his constituents in South Dakota.
Gov. Rhoden Announces Solution to Support Airport Expansion
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Larry Rhoden announced a solution to support the expansion of the Sioux Falls and Rapid City airports. This upcoming legislative session, the Governor will bring legislation to provide 0% interest loans of up to $15 million for each airport to support their current expansion efforts.
“This investment will make a huge difference – not just for Sioux Falls and Rapid City, but for all South Dakotans,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “We’ve seen huge increases in travelers coming through these airports. With more gates, more flights, and more destinations, we’ll able to draw more visitors and keep our state Open for Opportunity!”
Since the start of the Noem-Rhoden Administration in 2019, travelers through the Rapid City airport have increased by 30%, and travelers through the Sioux Falls airport have increased by 25%.
Governor Rhoden’s proposal utilizes the same funding approach that supported the Douglas School District during the 2025 legislative session and will not create any additional costs for South Dakota taxpayers.
In 2023, the Noem-Rhoden Administration set aside $200 million to support career housing in South Dakota – $100 million in grants that were quickly invested and $100 million in loans that have been partially utilized. That investment drove substantial growth in career housing across South Dakota. Of the original $100 million in loans, approximately $65 million remains. Governor Rhoden’s proposal moves this remaining funding into the Revolving Economic Development and Initiative (REDI) Fund, and some of that will support this airport investment.
From this funding, the Board of Economic Development may make 0% interest loans of up to $15 million for each airport. The loans must be closed and funded by June 30, 2030.
“Smart economic development involves doing the right thing, at the right place, at the right time. This proposal is a prime example of smart economic development, and it will lead to big wins for South Dakota,” said Bill Even, Commissioner of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development.
This announcement was made at a press conference at the Sioux Falls Regional Airport, where the Governor was joined by both Sioux Falls and Rapid City leadership.
SECRETARY OF STATE MONAE JOHNSON WILL HOST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SECRETARIES OF STATE 2026 CONFERENCE
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota Secretary of State Monae L. Johnson is proud to announce that the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) has selected South Dakota to host its 2026 Summer Conference.
The event will bring Secretaries of State, senior election officials, business service leaders, and policy experts from across the nation to the Mount Rushmore State for several days of collaboration, networking, and discussion on key issues affecting state governments.
The 2026 conference will showcase South Dakota’s national leadership in modern election administration, business services innovation, and civic engagement, while also highlighting the state’s unique culture, hospitality, and natural beauty.
“It is an honor to welcome my colleagues from across the country to South Dakota,” said Secretary Johnson. “This conference is not only an opportunity to share best practices and strengthen partnerships, but also a platform to demonstrate the strength and transparency of our state’s election system, the excellence of our public service, and the incredible beauty that makes South Dakota a destination worth experiencing. We are excited to promote our state and show the nation why South Dakota is such a remarkable place to live, work, and visit.”
Secretary Johnson attended the NASS 2025 Summer Conference in Mississippi. The NASS Summer Conference serves as a platform for state leaders to exchange ideas, develop bipartisan solutions, and address challenges in elections, business services, and other areas overseen by Secretaries of State. South Dakota’s selection as host reflects its national reputation as a proven leader in secure, transparent, and efficient governance, and its commitment to promoting the state’s values, people, and opportunities on the national stage.
New candidate rumors are popping up, and I’m getting a sense of deja vu with some of the names involved. As noted in the title, everything new is old again as there are two former legislators who appear to be considering jumping into statewide legislative races.
Former State Senator Jeff Monroe‘s name is starting to pop up in connection with running for South Dakota State Treasurer, a contest that had been completely wide open with Deputy Jason Williams going to work for Attorney General Marty Jackley in recent weeks.
Public Utilities Commission has had a lot of chatter this week as well; There is talk that Senator Jim Mehlhaff who had been favored to run started to tell people this week that he plans to remain in the Senate. But, at the same time, former State Representative John Teupel, who served from 2001-2004 and was a Majority Whip during his second term has apparently started calling people (I’ve spoken with two) to set the stage for entering the race for the Public Utilities Commission contest.
Teupel has apparently been at a number of the GOP Lincoln Day Dinners as of late, attending in Mitchell, Canton, Springfield, Meade County, and potentially others. And people had wondered why? Well, now you know that he’s looking at jumping in. Interestingly, Teupel was a member of the Farmhouse fraternity at SDSU during the same period of time that both current PUC Commissioner Kristie Fiegen was a “little sister” affiliated with the group, and PUC Commissioner Chris Nelson was a member as well. (It’s a small state.)
If there was doubt about Governor Rhoden getting into the race for his current seat, this weekend‘s events in connection with the State of South Dakota‘s annual Governors Hunt should remove those questions.
For the Governor, this week kicks off a dual effort; including both a formal fundraising letter from his campaign, and a fundraising event this afternoon for a political action committee supporting him.
This afternoon’s pre-Hunt PAC event for the Arch Beal/Mike Derby fronted “Strong, Safe, and Free PAC” has no formal invitation noting major sponsors, but at least some people found themselves personally invited not by PAC sponsors, but the Governor himself calling them from his personal cell phone asking for their attendance. (Update – hearing $5k a pop is the ask being made.)
This comes simultaneously with a fundraising letter dated 10/23 that went out from the Rhoden for Governor campaign:
With a light indication of his plans, and lamenting that “campaigns are too long,” but that “we would like to continue to serve,” Rhoden asks for “help” and asks recipients to “consider a donation so I have enough money to run a competitive campaign.”
The letter might be one of the lightest asks that I’ve ever seen in modern politics, omitting any indication of what he will use it for, eschewing a direct ask for a specific amount, or even summarizing the main points with a PS.
I did not receive any enclosures with this piece, so I am unaware if there was a donation card, or indication of a way to donate online which was not included in the main body of the letter. In fact, there is no indication of his website address on the letter at all! (See update – pp)
But clearly the fact this went out is an indication that Governor Larry Rhoden plans to announce.
Separately from this letter, what I am hearing through the grapevine is that an official announcement will be forthcoming in the next 2 to 3 weeks, at which time we will see more on what Governor Rhoden’s election agenda will be and how it could play out.
And it will play out in a competitive field.
Considering that the leader of the House of Representatives, Representative Jon Hansen, is the trailing candidate in the race for Governor and prides himself on opposing nearly all forms of government encouragement for economic development, the governor’s declaration of South Dakota being open for business could find itself stymied when we hit the realities of the legislative session.
This will be a hard fought race, and Governor Rhoden is just getting to the starting line.
**Update**
I’m informed that a card did go out with the letter, and it does have the website address with it:
“[T]his is a real losing hand for [Democrats] to play. It’s certainly costing people all over the country, big time, particularly federal employees. And the longer this thing drags on, the worse it gets …”
Mike Crane Announces Campaign for Sioux Falls City Council
Trusted Community Leadership Focused on Safety, Sensible Growth, and Good Governance
Sioux Falls, SD — Community leader and longtime public servant Mike Crane today formally announced his candidacy for the Sioux Falls City Council in the Southeast District. With years of experience in city planning, business development, and public service, Crane is running to ensure Sioux Falls remains a place where families can thrive, neighborhoods are strong, and citizens’ voices are valued.
“As Sioux Falls continues to grow and change, we need leaders who understand where we have been, and who have a clear vision for where we can go,” Crane said. “I am ready to continue working for a city that listens to its people and puts them first.”
Crane’s campaign centers on three core priorities:
Safety
From the youngest to the oldest, residents deserve to feel safe at home and throughout the city. Crane will champion continued investment in police, fire and rescue services, and support programs that reduce recidivism and build trust with youth—like Project POSTCARD—which bring young people and first responders together to build stronger community relationships.
Sensible Growth.
Sioux Falls has seen extraordinary growth over the past decade. Crane will work to ensure continued success by strengthening existing neighborhoods and roads, safeguarding fair property taxation, and expanding affordable housing opportunities. “Good, clean growth keeps Sioux Falls thriving,” Crane said. “Not just growth for growth’s sake.”
Good Governance.
Crane is committed to transparency, accountability, and public participation in city decision-making. He will work to empower neighborhood associations, enhance access to boards and commissions, and expand parks and recreation opportunities for families. “Everyone who calls Sioux Falls home should feel they have a stake in our future,” Crane said.
About Mike Crane:
Crane grew up in South Dakota and earned degrees from SDSU and USD and served in the U.S. Air Force. A career opportunity brought him back to Sioux Falls as a city planning intern, allowing him to make the community his permanent home.
He has since built a distinguished career in business development, including expertise in both market-rate and affordable housing as Managing Member of Crane and Fowler Investments.
Crane and his wife, Candy Hanson, are members of Calvary Episcopal Cathedral. Together they share a blended family deeply connected to Sioux Falls and beyond.
Proven Leadership in Public Service
Crane is well known for his leadership on the Sioux Falls School Board, where he helped drive transformational improvements, including moving to the middle school model and constructing new high schools and elementary schools to support a growing student population.
His board service also includes:
• Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum & East Sioux Falls Historic Site (Board Chair)
• Children’s Inn (Chair) now the SD Children’s Home Center for Family Safety
• Downtown Parking Facilities Board(Chair) • Southeast Technical Institute Council & Foundation (Chair)
• Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation Board (Chair)
Crane has also been a member of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce Board, and Main Street Sioux Falls.
“This community is the closest thing to my heart. I am running because our residents deserve leadership they trust,” Crane said.
Austin B. Hoffman Announces Candidacy for South Dakota Attorney General
Eureka, S.D. – Austin B. Hoffman announced today that he is running for Attorney General of the State of South Dakota, vowing to stand with law enforcement, ensure trust in the office, and uphold the rule of law with fairness and accountability.
“As South Dakota’s next Attorney General, my duty will be to uphold the rule of law, and ensure justice is applied equally to every citizen.” Hoffman said. “That means standing shoulder to shoulder with law enforcement officers, preserving the conservative values that make South Dakota strong, and leadership that puts the law above politics.”
Hoffman’s campaign will focus on a clear set of priorities:
Backing the Blue: Strengthening partnerships with sheriffs, police, and prosecutors to ensure criminals are held accountable.
Recidivism Reduction: Implementing smart policies to reduce repeat offenders and help offenders successfully reintegrate into society.
Drug Trafficking and Fentanyl: Working with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement to stop interstate and reservation drug distribution networks.
Protecting South Dakota Families: Prosecuting crimes against young victims to the fullest extent of the law, protecting rural communities, and defending South Dakota’s way of life from federal overreach.
A lifelong South Dakotan, attorney, and community leader, Hoffman brings experience in prosecution, public policy, and enforcing the law without political prejudice.
“Our justice system must work for everyone – rural and urban, rich and poor, Republican and Democrat,” Hoffman added. “South Dakotans deserve an Attorney General who will enforce the law without apology and without political games. I will defend our freedoms, protect our families, and ensure that justice is served from Sioux Falls to Buffalo.”
Hoffman is currently the McPherson County State’s Attorney and serves on the South Dakota Open Meetings Commission and the South Dakota Board of Elections.
Hoffman will be traveling across South Dakota in the coming months to meet with voters, law enforcement officials, and community leaders. “The Republican candidate for Attorney General will be chosen at the Republican State Convention in June of 2026. I hope to earn your trust for that nomination and your vote next November.” Hoffman concluded.
The Marty Jackley campaign is hosting a Brookings area fundraiser this next week on Tuesday, October 28th from 5-7 pm at the Innovation Center (and I’ve got the invite) – 10/23, slightly updated version..:
US Senator Mike Rounds’ WEEKLY ROUND[S] Up
October 5-19, 2025
Welcome back to another Weekly Round[s] Up. We have officially passed three weeks of being in a government shutdown. Democrats have now had 11 opportunities to reopen government but are refusing to do the right thing for the American people. The shutdown is having real, damaging effects on many Americans. Federal workers, including full-time uniformed members of the National Guard have missed a paycheck, food assistance is in jeopardy, some seniors are left without access to telehealth and air travel is growing more chaotic by the day.
On a positive note, the National Defense Authorization Act passed the Senate during the government shutdown. While we still have to conference it with the House version of the NDAA, the Senate version contains many wins for South Dakota. I’m particularly pleased that this version includes my legislation to ban individuals and entities controlled by China, Russia, Iran and North Korea from purchasing agricultural land and businesses located near sensitive military sites. The NDAA is a great example of bipartisan work in the Senate. As we remain in a government shutdown, I hope my Democrat colleagues decide to work with us to open the government up. After that happens, we can continue to work through the pressing issues that are facing the American people. More on the rest of my week in my Weekly Round[s] Up:
South Dakota groups I visited with: Merchant Payments Coalition; Kory and Ali Anderson with Dakota Foundry; Kelsey Lovseth, NEA Director for South Dakota, Stephanie Hageman, President of South Dakota Education Association; and the South Dakota Newsmedia Association, Flandreau Sioux Tribe, and Student Media Organizations students from Black Hills State University.
Met with South Dakotans from: Brookings, North Sioux City, Vermillion, Watertown, Webster, and Wessington Springs.
Other meetings: CIA General Counsel nominee, Joshua Simmons; Bill Pulte, Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency; Inspector General Michael Horowitz with the Federal Reserve Board, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau; Oleksandra Ustinova, Member of the Parliament of Ukraine and Anton Henov, F-16 Pilot, Head of the Ukrainian F-16 Program; Postmaster General David Steiner; Leadership with GeoExchange; General Kenneth S. Wilsbach, Department of the Air Force’s 24th Chief of Staff nominee; Major General Pirak; Javier Perez-Tasso, CEO of SWIFT; Paul Coussan with the National Parks Foundation; and Marissa Marshall from the Badlands National Park Conservancy.
Hearings: I attended 4 hearings last week including an Emerging Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee hearing, two Senate Armed Services Committee hearings, and an Open Nomination hearing for the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. During the open nomination hearing, I was able to give opening remarks for Peter Metzger, who I used to work with on the Select Committee on Intelligence. I know he will do great in this new role once confirmed. Watch a clip from the hearing here.
Briefings: Last week, I attended two briefings, one with the Senate Armed Services Committee as well as a closed Senate Select Committee on Intelligence briefing.
Senate Bible Study: I attended our Senate Bible Study, where the verse of the week was Luke 3:8 which speaks of repentance. I also attended our weekly Senate Prayer Breakfast with our speaker, former Senator Don Nickles from Oklahoma.
Votes taken: 32 – I voted again (several times) for the clean Continuing Resolution to extend government funding through November 21. As I’ve said, we need to open government back up. I also voted twenty times on different amendments to the NDAA, ending with the official vote to pass the FY2026 NDAA. I voted for Harold D. Mooty III, of Alabama, to be US District Judge for the Northern District of Alabama.
My staff in South Dakota visited: Aberdeen, Brookings, Lennox, Mobridge, and Vermillion.
Steps taken: 60,775 steps or 28.93 miles in week one, 45,472 steps or 21.36 miles in week two.
Video of the Week: Last week I joined Stuart Varney on Fox Business, watch the interview by clicking below.
As America careens towards the second month of the Schumer Shutdown, the Washington Reporter’s sources on the Hill have been remarking about the strength of the relationship between President Donald Trump and Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R., S.D.) — which was recently put on full display when the White House invited Thune and Senate Republicans over for lunch.
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota Secretary of State Monae L. Johnson is proud to announce that the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) has selected South Dakota to host its 2026 Summer Conference.
With a light indication of his plans, and lamenting that “campaigns are too long,” but that “we would like to continue to serve,” Rhoden asks for “help” and asks recipients to “consider a donation so I have enough money to run a competitive campaign.”
