Law Enforcement Voices Support for Gov. Larry Rhoden
Pierre, SD – Today, the Fraternal Order of Police and several South Dakota sheriffs endorsed Governor Larry Rhoden in his re-election campaign.
“I have such tremendous respect for the men and women of law enforcement who work so diligently to keep South Dakota safe,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “My brother is a life-long sheriff’s deputy, and my son is a deputy sheriff, so when law enforcement comes under attack, it’s personal to me. I’ve delivered results to support law enforcement and improve public safety, and if I have the privilege to serve for four more years, I will continue to do so.”
Governor Rhoden received endorsements from the following sheriffs: Pennington County Sheriff Brian Mueller, Lincoln County Sheriff Steve Swenson, Corson County Sheriff Alan Dale, Edmunds County Sheriff Jonathan Waldner, Perkins County Sheriff Kelly Serr, Potter County Sheriff Curt Hamburger, Walworth County Sheriff Josh Boll, and Ziebach County Sheriff Gary Cudmore.
“I’ve spent my career working to keep our communities safe, and I know how important it is to have leaders who stand with law enforcement,” said Sheriff Brian Mueller. “Governor Rhoden has consistently supported the men and women who wear the badge and has made public safety a priority. That’s why I’m proud to endorse him for Governor.”
“I’ve had the opportunity to work with Governor Rhoden on important public safety issues, from securing a new location for the State Penitentiary to expanding the Highway Patrol’s presence in our region,” said Sheriff Steve Swenson. “He listens to law enforcement, values our input, and follows through on keeping our communities safe. That’s why I’m proud to endorse him for Governor.”
The Fraternal Order of Police stated, “Governor Rhoden is delivering real results for law enforcement and public safety,” including:
- Launched Operation: Prairie Thunder, deploying targeted patrols that have produced strong results against crime and drug activity statewide.
- Added a full-time trooper to the Sioux Falls Drug Task Force, authorized License Plate Readers for local agencies, and secured a new $5 million patrol airplane to enhance officer safety during pursuits.
- Led the construction of a new men’s prison in a better location with expanded rehabilitative programming and prioritized 96 new drug treatment beds at the women’s prison in Rapid City.
- Implemented meaningful parole reforms, including additional parole officers, tougher penalties for violators, and new technical training programs to reduce recidivism.
- Partnered with federal authorities through 287(g) agreements, mobilizing the South Dakota National Guard and Department of Corrections to deport illegal alien criminals — with over 600 processed for removal.
“These are not just promises. These are proven results that support our officers, improve public safety, and make South Dakota a safer place,” continued the Fraternal Order of Police.
Learn more about Governor Rhoden’s results to keep South Dakota strong, safe, and free at RhodenResults.com
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