The founding fathers of the United States established our democratic form of government on the basis of first-hand experience with dictatorial rule (King of England). They selected democracy on the basis of its promises of providing maximum protection from dictatorship, maximum preservation of citizen freedoms, and maximum fair citizen participation in government. These promises are achieved through a system of checks and balances that keeps any one group from taking control of government. Institutional checks on power include a written constitution and three equal and separate branches of government (executive, legislative, and judicial). A balance of power between competing groups is maintained through fair elections based on equal voting rights for all citizens and the rule of law. Groups win and maintain governing control on the basis of receiving a majority of citizen votes.

Now that the legislative session is in the rearview mirror, I’m focused on looking forward and unlocking new opportunities for South Dakota. We had a historic 100th legislative session, and we accomplished a lot for the people of South Dakota – but there’s more work to do! I recently announced next steps to deliver a real property tax cut for the people of South Dakota.

In 1832, Joseph La Barge, then only seventeen years old, was working on steamboats on the Mississippi River and was present at the Indian battle of Bad Axe, Wisconsin. During that same year he came over to the Missouri River and began learning its odd and peculiar habits which challenged the captains of the early steamers that ventured into what would become Dakota Territory.

Sarah Kathryn Dulin, 32, Denton, TX, speeding on a state highway, fine $39.00, court costs $50.00, surcharges $28.50. Nora Alma Chavez Rubio, 46, Austin, TX, speeding on a state highway, fine $59.00, court costs $50.00, surcharges $28.50.

Kevin Lee Bailey of Bonesteel, SD, age 55, to Michelle Marie Halvorson, Bonesteel, SD, age 47, on March 28, 2025, in Burke, SD. Brian David Hermsen of Harrisburg, age 51, to Jan Karla Dunteman, Harrisburg, age 55, on March 28, 2025, in Burke, SD..

C David Gerald Jaros, 39, Gregory, SD, fail to maintain financial responsibility, disposition: dismissed - motion by court (including for no probably cause)..