SECRETARY OF STATE MONAE JOHNSON RECOGNIZES PARTNERSHIP WITH DSU TO STRENGTHEN COUNTY CYBERSECURITY
PIERRE, S.D. — Secretary of State Monae L. Johnson today recognized the ongoing collaboration between the South Dakota Secretary of State’s Office, Dakota State University (DSU), and the SecureSD program, led by Mike Waldner, in strengthening cybersecurity practices across South Dakota’s counties.
Through this partnership, nearly 100% of South Dakota’s counties are now actively engaged in improving their cybersecurity posture—an important milestone in protecting election systems and local government networks from emerging digital threats.
“Cybersecurity is a cornerstone of election integrity and public trust,” said Secretary Johnson. “Our partnership with Dakota State University and Director of SecureSD, Mike Waldner has been instrumental in helping county officials identify vulnerabilities, implement safeguards, and ensure our systems remain secure and reliable.”
The SecureSD initiative, based at Dakota State University, provides hands-on technical assistance and training to counties and municipalities statewide. Through collaboration with the Secretary of State’s Office and the Division of Elections, SecureSD has delivered cybersecurity assessments, awareness training, and best-practice recommendations tailored to county-level election operations.
Mike Waldner, Director of SecureSD, commended the partnership’s progress. “With Secretary Johnson’s leadership, we’ve been able to reach nearly every county in South Dakota. Together, we’re ensuring that local governments have the knowledge and tools they need to safeguard voter data and maintain confidence in our democratic processes.”
The partnership will continue into 2026, focusing on training opportunities, technology enhancements, and proactive support for counties preparing for upcoming elections.
For more information visit: https://sdsos.gov/default.aspx
South Dakota Canvassing announced an upgrade to their systems also.
You are asked to wear flip flops to the hand counting training in case you go over 10.
Terrance Davis is sharp and would be an excellent SD SoS. This is going to be a race to watch.