Northeast Radio SD: On-Demand Local Listen

🚀 Are you an entrepreneur in South Dakota? You need to know the “4 Cs of Credit!”
We recently sat down with Dr. Melissa Meidinger (SBDC) and Mark Nelson (GrowSD) for an in-depth look at how local businesses can secure funding and thrive in today’s economy. 📈
Whether you’re a startup or looking to expand, understanding these four pillars is the key to turning a “No” into a “YES”:
🔹 CAPACITY: Can your business actually repay the debt? Don’t just look at profit—focus on your cash flow and break-even point!
🔹 CHARACTER: Your credit score tells a story. “Life happens,” but having a plan to correct past hiccups is what lenders really want to see.
🔹 COLLATERAL: What assets can you pledge? Lenders prefer cash flow, but they need to know there’s a safety net.
🔹 CAPITAL: Do you have “skin in the game?” Most lenders look for a 20% injection of your own equity. 💰
Key Takeaway: Don’t spend all your personal cash before visiting the bank! Keep your reserves for the first 6–9 months of operation. 🛡️
Dr. Meidinger and Mark Nelson are here to help you through the SBDC and GrowSD. From cybersecurity training to QuickBooks help, the support doesn’t stop once your doors open!
Need help with your business plan? 📍 Visit the SBDC office on North 81 in Watertown. 📞 Reach out to GrowSD for lending opportunities.
#SmallBusinessSD #WatertownSD #Entrepreneurship #FinancialLiteracy #GrowSD #SBDC #SouthDakotaBusiness #BusinessFunding #The4CsOfCredit

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - The heart of Watertown is beating faster as the Downtown Watertown Collective gears up for a series of events designed to bring art, music, and community spirit to the streets. Michael Heuer and Jill Makepeace sat down with Northeast Radio SD to give a preview of what’s in store, starting with the much-anticipated “Art of Downtown” this weekend.
Art of Downtown: A Celebration of Local Talent
Kicking off this Saturday, May 2nd, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, the “Art of Downtown” artwalk will feature at least 16 participating businesses. Each location will host a local artist, offering residents a chance to meet the creators behind the works and explore a variety of styles, from photography and watercolor to acrylic painting and chalk art.
“We have so much wonderful local talent,” said Michael Heuer during the interview. “Sometimes they just don’t get a spotlight, and this is a wonderful opportunity to get introduced to some of those things.”
Jill Makepeace noted that the event is held in collaboration with the Watertown Community Foundation and marks the unveiling of brand-new sculptures throughout downtown. “If you haven’t driven through downtown lately, there are some really beautiful ones this year,” Makepeace said.
A new highlight this year is “Art Alley,” a previously empty corridor between Maverick’s and Mod’s. The space has been transformed into a rotating art feature to keep the downtown experience fresh and engaging for visitors.
Running for a Cause: Dash Around Kampeska
The momentum continues on May 15th and 16th with the “Dash Around Kampeska” series. Friday night features a 5K sponsored by Buffalo Wild Wings, marking a milestone for the “Girls on the Run” program. Approximately 30 fifth-grade girls from the Boys and Girls Club will be completing their first 5K as part of a program designed to boost self-esteem and fitness.
“They love cheerleaders,” Makepeace encouraged community members to come out and support the runners. “Even random strangers that come out and cheer for you, it makes you feel better.”
Saturday morning will see runners tackle the 13.1-mile half-marathon around Lake Kampeska, concluding with a celebration on the boardwalk at City Park.
Summer Concerts and the “Kemp Passport”
Looking ahead to the summer months, the “Concerts on Kemp” series returns on the first Wednesday of June, July, and August. In honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States, this year’s concerts will feature a patriotic “Red, White, and Blue” theme.
To encourage residents to explore more of what the city has to offer, the collective is launching a “Downtown Passport.” Residents can collect stamps at various downtown locations—including the Heritage Museum and the summer concerts—for a chance to win prizes.
How to Get Involved
The Downtown Watertown Collective emphasizes that most of these events are free and designed for all ages. Beyond art and music, the community can also look forward to “Foundations of Fitness” on Saturday mornings, featuring yoga and kickboxing in Foundation Plaza.
“Downtown’s always changing... you never have the excuse there’s nothing to do in Watertown,” Heuer concluded. “Become a part of the community, not just a bystander.”
For a full list of participating businesses and event updates, residents are encouraged to follow the Downtown Watertown Collective on Facebook or visit the Watertown community calendar.
 

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - As the June primary approaches, Gary Hudiburgh, a candidate for South Dakota House District 4, joined Northeast Radio SD to discuss his unique background and his plans to “reclaim communities at risk.”
With a background spanning the nuclear energy industry, labor unions, and emergency medical services, Hudiburg is positioning himself as a candidate with a “well-blended capability” to address South Dakota’s economic and social challenges.
From DC to SD: A Background in Service
Hudiburgh, who has lived in South Dakota for five years, grew up in the Washington D.C. area, where politics was a “regular dinner table conversation.” However, his professional path led him away from law and toward the trades. Working as a millwright in the nuclear energy industry, Hudiburgh traveled the region, gaining technical skills and an appreciation for the labor force.
Investing in the Next Generation
A centerpiece of Hudiburgh’s platform is workforce development, driven by his nonprofit organization, SotaSodak. The organization focuses on teaching 14- to 18-year-olds trade skills and faith-based excellence.
“I asked a young man across the street what he was doing all summer, and he said he was going to play video games,” Hudiburgh shared. “We need to do something. I asked him if he knew how to weld... it takes one adult that cares to change a life trajectory completely.”
Hudiburgh emphasized the need to expand access to technical colleges like Lake Area Tech and Mitchell Tech, suggesting that South Dakota needs to find ways to bring five-week “pre-apprenticeship” programs directly into local and tribal communities.
Mental Health and Resilience
Hudiburg spoke candidly about his 11.5 years of sobriety, citing it as a major factor in his focus on mental health. He has partnered with the nonprofit Lost & Found to deliver QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide-prevention training to local fire departments in Gary and Clear Lake.
“A lot of my value proposition is about lived experience,” said Hudiburgh. “I understand where the gaps are and how we can build that generosity and mastery that these kids really crave.”
Economic Development and “Asset-Based” Growth
Addressing complex issues like wind energy and proposed data centers, Hudiburg advocated for “asset-based community development.” He expressed frustration with “extractive” development—projects that bring in out-of-state workers and offer little long-term benefit to local taxpayers.
“South Dakota is a precious place,” Hudiburg noted. “We need to look for ways to make these assets serve our communities—both through jobs and tax revenue—rather than just being extractive.” He cited his experience in the energy sector as key to understanding which projects work and which do not.
Faith and Core Values
Hudiburg closed the interview by highlighting his faith as his central pillar, describing himself as pro-life and a staunch supporter of the Second Amendment.
“We really want to love our neighbor the way we want to love ourselves,” Hudiburg said. “That is a reflection of what our true character is.”
Gary Hudiburg is one of five candidates vying for two available House seats in District 4. The primary election is scheduled for June 2, with the general election following on November 3. Voters can find more information at www.GaryforSD.com.

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Navigating the journey of motherhood for the first time can be as daunting as it is rewarding. To bridge the gap between pregnancy and early childhood development, Bright Start, a program under the South Dakota Department of Health, is offering a lifeline to families across the state.
In a recent live interview on Northeast Radio SD, Amy Mattke, Team Lead for the North Central Region, and Jane Koehn, a dedicated home visit nurse, joined Krista Ateyo-Gortmaker of Codington Connects to discuss the program’s vital role in the community.
A Compass for the First-Time Journey
Bright Start is specifically designed for first-time mothers. Unlike traditional clinic visits, this program pairs expectant moms with a personal registered nurse who provides one-on-one support from early pregnancy until the child’s second birthday.
“Babies and moms are our jam,” said Amy Mattke during the interview. “Our nurses have extensive training in OB care, breastfeeding, mental health, and attachment theory to ensure moms feel confident and supported every step of the way.”
Breaking Down the Barriers: Cost and Eligibility
One of the most significant highlights of the program is its accessibility. Bright Start is completely free of charge for those who qualify. Funding is provided through the South Dakota Department of Health via state and federal grants, ensuring that financial status never stands in the way of a healthy beginning.
Eligibility is primarily income-based. Generally, if a mother qualifies for Medicaid or WIC, she is eligible for Bright Start. The program aims to support families who may have limited resources or face risk factors that could affect pregnancy or early childhood outcomes.
Comprehensive Care Beyond the Clinic
Nurse Jane Koehn, who covers five counties including Codington, Clark, and Grant, emphasized that the program is about meeting moms exactly where they are—literally and figuratively.
“Our visits are very conversational. It’s not like a sterile doctor’s office visit,” Koehn explained. “I meet families at their homes, at the park, or even at a local coffee shop. We cover everything from labor and delivery prep and breastfeeding to safe sleep, vaccinations, and postpartum recovery.”
The relationship often becomes a cornerstone of the mother’s support system. Koehn shared that she currently manages 14 “kiddos” and has seen seven families through to “graduation” at age 2. “It’s bittersweet to see them go because you get very attached,” she added.
Connecting the Community
The program is a key partner of Codington Connects, a local initiative that serves as a centralized hub for over 45 agencies in the Watertown and Codington County area. By working together, these organizations ensure that if a mother needs more than just nursing care—such as housing assistance or mental health counseling—she is referred to the right place immediately.
“We break down the silos,” said Ateyo-Gortmaker. “If you’re a partner with Codington Connects, you’re part of a resource network that provides 360-degree care for the family.”
How to Get Started
Bright Start is a voluntary program, and referrals can come from anywhere—doctors, WIC offices, or even mothers themselves.
For those in the Watertown area looking for more information or to see if they qualify:
Direct Contact: Call Jane Koehn at 605-501-9386.
Online: Visit com or the South Dakota Department of Health website.
Social Media: Follow Codington Connects on Facebook for updates and resources.
As Mattke noted in her closing remarks, “Everyone who sees us wants to see us.” For first-time moms in South Dakota, that support can make all the difference in the world.

📣 Heartland AI Ethics Forum — Event Recap
Thanks to everyone who joined us at the Watertown Regional Library for the Heartland AI Ethics Forum. It was a thoughtful, down‑to‑earth conversation about how artificial intelligence is shaping everyday life here in South Dakota.
Our panel brought together a wide range of local and regional voices:
Moderator • Steve Jurrens — Northeast Radio SD
Panelists • Zachary Thompson — Liberty Forge AI Consulting • Tyler Fischella — Formerly Google Trust & Safety (via Zoom) • Dr. Matthew Cole — Pioneer Biotech, Brookings • KT Webb — Author & Businesswoman • Sister Barbara Younger — Mother of God Monastery • Matt Roby — Attorney & Catholic Representative
We covered everything from data privacy and rural sovereignty to creativity, faith, and the future of work — all with a focus on what these issues mean for people living and working in our part of the country.
A big thank‑you to everyone who asked questions, shared thoughts, and helped make this a meaningful community discussion.
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
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The Northeast Radio SD newscast for Wednesday, April 29, 2026, provided a comprehensive look at local emergency responses, significant legal developments, community events, and a lighthearted dive into South Dakota’s history.
Local News and Emergency Reports
Watertown Collision: Emergency crews responded on late Tuesday morning, April 28, to a two-vehicle accident on the southwest side of Watertown at the intersection of Highway 212 and 41st Street Southwest. One vehicle was towing an enclosed car trailer; paramedics evaluated one person for minor, non-life-threatening injuries who was subsequently released at the scene. Traffic was directed for about 30 minutes while debris was cleared by the Codington County Sheriff's Office and Performance Towing.
Purdue Pharma Settlement: In federal court, Purdue Pharma was ordered to pay over $5 billion in criminal penalties for its role in the nationwide opioid epidemic. Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that the company prioritized profits over patient health. The penalties include $3.5 billion in fines and $2 billion in forfeiture.
Heartland AI Ethics Forum: Watertown residents gathered on Tuesday night for a forum on artificial intelligence ethics. Panelists, including technologists and educators, emphasized that AI should support rather than replace human judgment. Author K.T. Webb noted that AI writing often lacks the emotional depth found in human storytelling.
State and Community Developments
Childcare Expansion: The Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Plains is opening a new Early Childhood Enrichment Center in Flandreau this May. The facility will serve up to 130 children, helping to fill a documented shortage of over 200 childcare slots in Moody County.
Voter Eligibility Amendment: Attorney General Marty Jackley filed a draft explanation for a proposed constitutional amendment clarify that only U.S. citizens are eligible to vote in South Dakota. The public has 10 days to submit written comments on the explanation before it potentially appears on the November general election ballot.
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
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Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - As the 2026 primary election cycle enters full swing, Codington County Auditor Brenda Hanten joined news broadcaster Steve Jurrens on Northeast Radio SD on Monday to provide critical updates for residents ahead of the June 2nd Primary. In a wide-ranging interview, Hanten addressed recent delays in ballot production, clarified new state laws on voter registration, and announced a change to polling locations for Sheridan Township voters.
Absentee Voting Now “In Full Swing”
Following minor administrative hurdles that caused a brief delay in the release of ballots, Hanten confirmed that the absentee voting period is now officially open. The delay was attributed to a combination of legislative calendar quirks—specifically the occurrence of five Tuesdays in March—and the Easter holiday, which created a condensed timeline for the Secretary of State’s office to certify candidates and for local offices to approve ballot proofs.
“The ballots are here... they were able to start voting last Thursday afternoon. Everything’s ready to go, and we’ve already had individuals in for absentee voting. It’s in full swing right now.”
Voters have three primary methods to cast an absentee ballot: appearing in person at the Auditor’s office, requesting a ballot by mail, or, for homebound individuals, utilizing a designated messenger. Hanten reminded those voting by mail to act quickly due to recent mail service delays. “The sooner the better, just so you don’t miss that deadline to get them back in the office,” she urged.
New Requirements: Senate Bill 175 and Proof of Citizenship
A major focus of the update was the implementation of Senate Bill 175, which introduces new documentation requirements for specific classes of voters. According to Hanten, anyone registering to vote in South Dakota for the first time, individuals moving in from out of state, or those previously removed from the voter rolls must now provide proof of U.S. citizenship.
Accepted documents include a birth certificate, a U.S. passport, or a tribal ID. Hanten clarified that while voters can still use a standard driver’s license for identification at the polls, the citizenship verification is a separate requirement for registration.
“If you don’t provide that [citizenship documentation], you are then put in as a federal voter, which means you can only then vote for the President, the U.S. Congress, the House of Representatives, and the Senate.”
Hanten noted that the Auditor’s office is proactively reaching out to those currently listed as “federal voters” to help them transition to full registration so they can participate in local and state races. She also quelled concerns regarding older drivers’ licenses: “If you have a current driver’s license, you can still just continue to use that even if it doesn’t say [U.S. Citizen] on the back.”
Important Deadlines and Polling Changes
Voters wishing to make changes to their registration—including address updates, name changes, or party affiliation—must do so by the May 18th deadline at 5:00 PM. Hanten emphasized that her office requires original signatures on these forms, meaning they cannot be emailed or faxed.
Additionally, Hanten announced a logistical change for residents of Sheridan Township. Due to ongoing renovations at their traditional polling site, these voters will relocate for the primary.
“Sheridan Township individuals will now vote at the Country Inn & Suites... that’s just kind of across the road over there by McDonald’s. If they have any questions or need directions, feel free to call the office.”
Ensuring Election Integrity
Addressing the mechanics of the count, Hanten described a rigorous process of transparency. This includes “jogging” the paper ballots in a machine to prevent friction and ensure they feed through tabulators correctly, as well as conducting public equipment tests both before and after the election.
The Auditor also highlighted the role of the bipartisan Resolution Board, which handles ambiguous ballots when a voter’s intent is unclear. “We’re very transparent... we’re very professional about that process,” Hanten said, inviting the public to witness the proceedings at the courthouse on election night.
 
Key Dates to Remember:
April 28: Deadline for Independent candidate petitions (5:00 PM).
May 18: Final day to register or change voter information (5:00 PM).
June 2: Primary Election Day.
November 3: General Election Day.
For more information, residents can contact the Codington County Auditor’s Office at 605-882-6297 or visit the South Dakota Secretary of State’s “Voter Information Portal” (VIP) online.
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
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This newscast, hosted by Steve Jurens for Northeast Radio SD on April 28, 2026, provides a comprehensive look at local elections, community initiatives, and fiscal developments in the Watertown area.
 
Election Updates and New Voting Requirements
Absentee voting is officially underway in Codington County following a minor delay in ballot production. Voters can cast their ballots in person at the courthouse, via mail, or through an authorized messenger for homebound residents. Key election details include:
 
Proof of Citizenship: Under a new state law, first-time registrants or those re-registering after a cancellation must provide proof of U.S. citizenship. Accepted documents include a certified birth certificate, a U.S. passport, or a tribal photo ID.
 
Polling Location Changes: Due to renovations, Sheridan Township voters will use a temporary polling site at the Country Inn & Suites.
 
Contested Races: Contested races on the primary ballot are limited to the Republican party this year.
 
Deadlines: All absentee ballots must be returned by the close of polls on June 2.
 
Watertown School Board Budget
The Watertown School Board has reviewed a preliminary budget of $116.6 million for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, representing a 3.66% decrease from the previous year.
 
Cost Management: The district is avoiding layoffs by using attrition and reducing certain grade-level sections and positions.
 
Funding Shifts: There is a significant shift in the general fund toward state aid as the property tax levy for owner-occupied homes decreases.
 
Special Education: The budget includes a new preschool teacher and continued use of virtual speech therapy to address staffing shortages.
 
Capital Projects: The $10 million capital outlay includes building upgrades, new clean-diesel buses, and progress on the $20 million LATC Archway complex.
 
Budget Hearing: A formal hearing is scheduled for July 13.
 
Community Initiatives and Student Success
PACH May Day Food Drive: The Watertown Area PACH (People Against Child Hunger) program is holding its annual food drive this Friday and Saturday to support children facing food insecurity during the summer. Collections will take place at Watertown Radio, County Fair, Hy-Vee, and Walmart.
 
FFA Scholarships: Twenty-five South Dakota FFA members from various chapters, including Estelline, Harrisburg, and Mitchell, were awarded a combined total of $79,750 in national scholarships.
 
Local Regulations and Memorials
Spring Load Limits: Seasonal weight restrictions on Watertown streets have been lifted as the spring thaw period concludes.
 
Workers' Memorial Day: A ceremony was held in Sioux Falls to honor workers killed or injured on the job. The South Dakota Safety Council noted that the state saw 29 workplace deaths in 2024, a 45% increase from the previous year.
Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day! 
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This Northeast Radio SD newscast, anchored by Steve Jurrens on Monday, April 27, 2026, covers major community projects, public safety alerts, and local political updates for the Watertown area. The news is sponsored by Hahler Automotive in Webster, SD.
Community Revitalization: Lori’s Garden
A significant redesign of Lori’s Garden on Kemp Avenue in downtown Watertown is currently underway as part of the "Love Grows Here" project led by the H2050 Arts and Recreation Committee.
Current Progress: City crews have begun clearing the area by removing aging pine trees and a deteriorating fence.
Planned Features: The rebuilt garden will feature ADA-accessible perennial gardens, a picnic and pergola area, adult swings, an art wall, a memorial mosaic, and interactive digital displays telling the park's story.
History: The garden was originally donated by Mike Luken in memory of his wife, Lori, who died in a car accident when their daughter was four years old.
Funding: A grant decision to fund roughly half of the project is expected in May. Additional donations are being accepted via the Watertown Area Community Foundation.
Infrastructure: 5th Avenue North Reconstruction
Phase 2 of the 2026 Neighborhood Street Reconstruction Project begins today on 5th Avenue North.
Closures: Phase 1 (Broadway to Highway 81) and Phase 2 (Skyline Drive from Broadway to Highway 81) are now closed. 3rd Street Northwest will remain open until after May 20.
Timeline: Work is scheduled to continue through September 11, weather permitting.
Scope: The project includes full roadway resurfacing, curb and gutter installation, sidewalk repairs, and replacements for storm, sanitary, and water mains.
Public Safety & Legal Updates
Brookings County Fire: A house fire northwest of Brookings on Sunday evening caused an estimated $350,000 in damage. The fire on 30th Avenue West started on the exterior and spread inside; fortunately, all occupants and pets escaped safely. The Red Cross is assisting the displaced renters.
Federal Sentencing: Antonio Baker, 32, of Chicago, was sentenced to over 10 years in federal prison following a 2024 traffic stop in Sioux Falls where police seized 1.3 kilos of meth and cocaine.
Campaign Sign Warning: The South Dakota Department of Transportation reminds the public that campaign signs are prohibited on state highway rights-of-way. Illegal signs will be removed and can be reclaimed at local SDDOT offices.
Local Politics: District 4 GOP Forum
Northeast Radio SD moderated a two-hour forum on Sunday in Hayti for District 4 Republican candidates.
Participants: House candidates Fred Deutsch, Kent Roh, Dylan Jordan, Gary Uttecht, and Ryan Cole, alongside Senate candidates Tim Bogalka and Stephanie Sauder.
Topics: The debate covered property taxes, data centers, mental health, rural healthcare, and local control.
Upcoming Events: Boulder Memorial Golf Tournament
The Lake Area Technical College Foundation and Alumni Association will host its annual golf tournament on Saturday, June 13, at Prairie Winds Golf Course.
Details: The event is a two-person stroke play tournament using "tin whistle" scoring.
Registration: The entry fee is $200 per team, limited to 36 teams. The registration deadline is June 9.

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - A crowd filled the Hamlin County 4‑H building Sunday morning as Republican candidates for South Dakota’s District 4 Senate and House seats took the stage for a two‑hour forum. The event was hosted by the Hamlin County Republicans Committee and moderated by Northeast Radio SD’s Steve Jurrens.
HOUSE CANDIDATE INTRODUCTIONS
Fred Deutsch
Deutsch, a former legislator and Watertown School Board member, emphasized his record of conservative legislation.
“I’ve had 19 bills signed into law and a 100% pro‑life voting record,” he said. “Pierre has become more like Washington, D.C. We need people who will roll up their sleeves and get the work done.”
He said his campaign is about “putting the people first” and respecting that “the people are the boss.”
Rep. Kent Roe (Incumbent)
Roe highlighted his background as a business owner, appraiser, and lifelong resident of the region.
“Those grandkids remind me every day why I serve,” he said. “We need to keep South Dakota the way we like it — not just for my grandkids, but for yours.”
Roe noted his work on the House Taxation Committee and his focus on public schools, agriculture, and economic development.
Rep. Dylan Jordan (Incumbent)
Jordan described himself as a “constitutional conservative” who votes strictly based on the U.S. Constitution, South Dakota Constitution, and the state GOP platform.
“If you want someone who votes based on the party platform, I’m your guy,” he said. “I’m pro‑life, pro‑family, pro‑Second Amendment, and pro‑freedom.”
Gary Hudiburgh
Hudiburgh spoke about overcoming addiction, founding a faith‑based nonprofit, and his belief that South Dakota must “not become complacent.”
“South Dakota is a special place. Do not be complacent,” he said. “I’ve dedicated my life to service.”
Ryan Kohl
Kohl, a farmer, Air Force veteran, and former teacher, said his priorities are agriculture, public education, and rural communities.
“I want my kids to stay here. If they choose to leave, I want it to be a difficult decision,” he said. “If you haven’t bought fertilizer by the ton, you’re not a farmer — and I’m the only farmer running.”
SENATE CANDIDATE INTRODUCTIONS
Timothy “Tim” Begalka
Begalka, a former state legislator, emphasized his experience and conservative voting record.
“There are hundreds of bills every year, and you have to make quick decisions,” he said. “You can trust me — I say what I mean.”
Sen. Stephanie Sauder (Incumbent)
Sauder, a retired teacher and lifelong agriculturalist, emphasized her work on education, elder care, and rural issues.
“We have to take care of our children — not just by Constitution, but by moral responsibility,” she said. “It is an honor to serve in Pierre. I don’t take that lightly.”
QUESTION 1 — PROPERTY TAXES
Property taxes dominated the discussion, with all candidates acknowledging the burden on homeowners and landowners.
Deutsch
“We need to re‑examine the school funding formula and look at restoring the ag circuit breaker.”
Roe
Supported SB 96 (local option sales tax swap) but opposed SB 245.
“245 ignored schools, state workers, and special‑care providers.”
Jordan
“The budget has doubled in eight years. We need to stop expanding government.”
Hudiburgh
“Inflation is crushing counties. We run lean, but we need to look critically at expenses.”
Kohl
“Property taxes stay local. Let’s keep wind‑tower revenue local, too.”
Begalka
“Property taxes are immoral. You shouldn’t have to pay rent to the government on land you own.”
Sauder
“There’s no single answer. Economic development is key — new businesses bring new property tax revenue.”
QUESTION 2 — DATA CENTERS & WIND TURBINES
Sauder
Supports data centers.
“There is a lot of misinformation — some of it flat‑out lies,” she said. “Data centers are about cybersecurity. We don’t want our data stored in China.”
Begalka
Strongly opposed to the proposed Deuel County data center.
“Ninety‑five percent of people in Deuel County oppose it,” he said. “It would use as much electricity as Sioux Falls.”
Kohl
Supports data centers in principle.
“AI is here. Data centers will be built somewhere,” he said. “We don’t want them in China.”
Hudiburgh
Neutral, wants environmental monitoring.
“I’m not 100% for or against,” he said. “We need environmental safeguards.”
Jordan
Opposed to the Deuel County proposal.
“No one wants it except elected officials,” he said. “And I’m against crony capitalism — wind turbines wouldn’t exist without it.”
Roe
Supports incentives to stay competitive.
“Forty states already offer incentives. We need to stay competitive.”
Deutsch
Supports local control.
“If the people want it, fine. If they don’t, it’s no.”
QUESTION 3 — WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED TO WORK ON IN PIERRE?
Deutsch
“Lowering property taxes.”
Roe
“Stopping the brain drain and promoting economic development.”
Jordan
“Protecting constitutional rights.”
Hudiburgh
“Reclaiming communities at risk and building workforce pathways.”
Kohl
“Keeping our kids here. Housing is key.”
Begalka
“Fighting DEI and restoring intellectual freedom.”
Sauder
“Elder care, education, and agriculture.”
QUESTION 4 — MENTAL HEALTH
Kohl
“I’ve lost more comrades to suicide than enemy fire.”
Hudiburgh
“My grandfather killed himself. My mother found him at 14.”
Jordan
“COVID lockdowns caused a lot of this.”
Roe
“We need more volunteers and better reimbursement for EMS.”
Deutsch
“Mental health issues are happening younger and younger.”
Begalka
“We need to remove the stigma.”
Sauder
“The Rural Health Transformation Act is a godsend.”
QUESTION 5 — RURAL HEALTHCARE
Deutsch
“We ended non‑compete contracts so doctors can stay local.”
Roe
“Ambulance services are underfunded.”
Jordan
“The more government gets involved, the worse healthcare gets.”
Hudiburgh
“We need to build civic engagement and emergency response capacity.”
Kohl
“Technology and CTE programs can help build the workforce.”
Begalka
“There’s a misallocation of money — look at the massive hospital expansions.”
Sauder
“The Rural Health Transformation Act funds rural clinics, EMS hubs, and telemedicine.”
QUESTION 6 — LOCAL CONTROL
Sauder
“Local control is essential. School boards know their communities.”
Begalka
“Parents should have ultimate control over their children.”
Kohl
“Local government is always more efficient.”
Hudiburgh
“Our Republic doesn’t stand without educated citizens.”
Jordan
“Your rights come from God, not government.”
Roe
“The Legislature should stay hands‑off.”
Deutsch
“Pierre has taken too much control from school boards.”
CLOSING STATEMENTS
Deutsch
“If you’re tired of Pierre looking like Washington, D.C., it’s time for a change.”
Roe
“I’ll keep fighting for families, farms, and public safety.”
Jordan
“If it doesn’t align with the Constitution and the platform, I won’t vote for it.”
Hudiburgh
“We must fight complacency.”
Kohl
“I’m the only farmer running — and I want to serve District 4.”
Begalka
“You can trust my record. I say what I mean.”
Sauder
“We live in the best state in the country — and I want to make the best better.”
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