Carson Walker, SD News Watch Elementary and middle school students from around South Dakota will compete Saturday, Feb. 7, in the state spelling bee at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell.

As I write this, we are just a few days from the convening of the 101st session of the South Dakota State Legislature. Before serving as Lieutenant Governor and now Governor, I was a legislator for 16 years, including in several leadership roles. When I was first elected House Majority leader, I oversaw a caucus of 52 members with a wide range of experience and wisdom – and many different ideas on how to solve problems.

Governor Larry Rhoden has issued a proclamation declaring January as National Mentoring Month in South Dakota, recognizing the powerful role mentors play in helping young people and adults reach their full potential and strengthening communities across the state.

Visitors to the State Capitol in Pierre are now able to step inside and view the South Dakota Supreme Court Courtroom. The Supreme Court Courtroom, located southeast of the Rotunda on the second floor of the State Capitol, remains one of the few original Supreme Court courtrooms in the United States that is still used for court proceedings.

Gubernatorial candidate and Congressman Dusty Johnson announced a comprehensive and responsible plan to deliver meaningful property tax relief to South Dakota homeowners beginning in 2027, making homeownership more affordable for seniors, hardworking families, and first-time homebuyers across the state.

The South Dakota Secretary of State’s Office reminds individuals interested in running for public office in the 2026 primary election that candidate petitions may begin circulating on January 1, 2026.