Get to know the Sioux Falls candidates for the South Dakota State Legislature in House districts 13-25
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It's almost time for South Dakotans to head to the ballot boxes to choose their representatives on the state level.
Absentee voting began Sept. 23, and South Dakotans had until Oct. 24 to register to vote. The general election will be Nov. 8.
The Argus Leader gathered biographical and professional information about the candidates running for state-wide office in the Sioux Falls area. Those elected will be headed to Pierre in January to begin their terms in the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Some candidates like Herman Otten, Brent Hoffman and Tom Pischke will go straight to Pierre, either having won their primary in June or are not facing a challenger.
Below, readers have the chance to meet the candidates through a series of questions asked by the Argus Leader.
Editor's note: Answers have been edited for clarity and conciseness.
District 13 House
Tony Venhuizen
Age: 39
Profession: Lawyer
Party Affiliation: Republican
Political/public service experience: Chief of Staff to Gov. Dennis Daugaard and Gov. Kristi Noem, Member of the South Dakota Board of Regents
South Dakotans are voting on two ballot measures this year: one to expand Medicaid and one to legalize recreational marijuana. How do you plan to vote on those measures and why?
I will vote “no” on both, although if either passes I will respect the will of the voters and support responsible implementation.
I am voting “no” on Medicaid expansion because after a couple of years of high federal subsidies, expansion will cost the state at least $30 million a year in taxpayer dollars, and the proponents have proposed no plan to cover that cost on an ongoing basis. It is not responsible to propose new spending without also proposing a plan to pay for it.
I am voting “no” on recreational marijuana because I am concerned about issues relating to addiction and to mental health, both of which are increasingly important challenges facing our state. States that have legalized recreational marijuana have also seen an increase in illegal marijuana use by young people, and that is also very concerning to me.
What is the next big challenge for South Dakota ahead of January’s legislative session that will need to be tackled, why and what can be done?
Both the Medicaid expansion and marijuana measures would create significant challenges of implementation if passed.
Beyond that, I am focused on keeping South Dakota a great place to do business, and to protect our status as the best-run state in America. We are entering a third year of unprecedented revenue growth and cost increases, driven by our strong economy but also by massive federal spending and high inflation. I am very committed to conservative budgeting and to responsible use of taxpayer dollars. These unpredictable economic times make that very challenging. If we can afford it, I would like to consider ways to hold down taxes, especially property taxes, but we also need to keep up with the salary increases and cost increases being driven by high inflation.
Finally, the Dobbs decision means that, for the first time in 50 years, abortion policy can be debated and set through a democratic process. This is an emotional, moral issue that will likely play out both through the initiative and referendum process and through the State Legislature. As I consider the many facets and perspectives of this issue, I will always first consider that every abortion ends a human life, and in my mind that is a very high bar.
Sue Peterson: Did not respond to questions in time for publication.
More:Gov. Kristi Noem, Jamie Smith gubernatorial race is tight, according to SDSU Poll director
District 14 House
Wendy Mamer:
Age: 28
Profession: Suicide Loss and Support Coordinator at the Helpline Center, previously the Assistant Director of Admission at Augustana University
Party Affiliation: Democrat
Political/public service experience: Billie Sutton Leadership Institute, Leadership Sioux Falls Class 36 + Leadership Sioux Falls Executive Committee Member, Vice Chairperson of Sad Isn’t Bad
South Dakotans are voting on two ballot measures this year: one to expand Medicaid and one to legalize recreational marijuana. How do you plan to vote on those measures and why?
I support Medicaid expansion because it would provide health care to an additional 42,000 South Dakotans and would return $1.3 billion of taxpayer dollars to South Dakota over the next five years. This type of investment would improve the health and economic security of communities across South Dakota.
In 2020, South Dakotans and District 14 voters overwhelmingly supported Amendment A, which sought to legalize and regulate marijuana. IM 27 is the result of a successful court challenge to Amendment A. I support IM 27 because it provides the legislature with additional opportunities to safeguard the rollout of a new industry in our state and to expand our tax revenue. Most importantly, I support IM 27 because it respects and upholds the will of the voters as expressed in Amendment A in 2020.
What is the next big challenge for South Dakota ahead of January’s legislative session that will need to be tackled, why and what can be done?
It's vital that our state legislature prioritizes the well-being of pregnant women and children as South Dakota begins to navigate the post-Roe era. Regarding our trigger law, I would support legislation that makes exceptions for rape and incest, and allows health care providers all of the tools needed to protect the life of a pregnant individual.
The existing law needs clarifying for all involved, including doctors and nurses caring for their pregnant patients. This remains a healthcare issue.
Mike Huber:
Age: 57
Profession: Financial Planner
Party Affiliation: Democrat
Political/public service experience: ran for District 14 House in 2020
South Dakotans are voting on two ballot measures this year: one to expand Medicaid and one to legalize recreational marijuana. How do you plan to vote on those measures and why?
I will be voting yes on both of these measures. Expanding Medicaid will bring approximately 42,000 South Dakotans preventative medical care, which will save lives and help prevent bankrupting families. Regulating the marijuana product and sales was voted for previously by District 14 voters.
What is the next big challenge for South Dakota ahead of January’s legislative session that will need to be tackled, why and what can be done?
The SD Legislature is completely out of touch with constituents such as not following the will of voters, attempting to prevent voter initiated measures through Amendment C, and spending inordinate amounts of time on extremist legislation. Therefore, I am committed to: informing District 14 constituents of all public servants serving them and their contact information, speaking directly with a minimum of 10 constituents per week when not in session, working on common sense bipartisan legislation, and making certain all levels of government are responsive to constituents.
More:As 2022 election nears, majority of South Dakota voters see civility declining in America
Tyler Tordsen:
Age: 30
Profession: Southeast Regional Director and State Director of Tribal Affairs for U.S. Senator Mike Rounds
Party Affiliation: Republican
Political/public service experience: Board member of the Sioux Falls YMCA, board member of the South Dakota Board of Educational Telecommunications, board chair for the USD Alumni Association, and member of Downtown Sioux Falls Rotary.
South Dakotans are voting on two ballot measures this year: one to expand Medicaid and one to legalize recreational marijuana. How do you plan to vote on those measures and why?
Medicaid expansion will ultimately be decided by the voters, and I will respect the outcome of that vote, but I believe voters should be aware of both the pros and cons of Medicaid expansion. I lean in support of Medicaid expansion in South Dakota primarily because I believe we can find efficiencies in the state budget to cover our obligations and annually balance our budget. More people seeking preventative health care will help lead to healthier communities, especially among the lower-income working population. With the federal government covering the majority of expansion costs, estimated costs to South Dakota are manageable in the current economic climate. But before committing to putting a permanent, budgetary mandate into our State Constitution, South Dakotans need to be prepared for the scenario of a budget shortfall. I intend to vote against Amendment D because I believe the legislature should be able to debate and pass this issue without permanently altering our State Constitution.
I support marijuana for medicinal purposes, but have some public safety concerns of adding it recreationally in South Dakota. South Dakota voters will have the opportunity to decide which direction we want to go as a state in regards to marijuana. Do we want to see the legalization of recreational marijuana, or are we satisfied with having legalized medicinal marijuana for those in need? If voters approve legalizing recreational marijuana in November, I will respect the outcome of the voters and will work towards the responsible and efficient implementation during the 2023 legislative session.
What is the next big challenge for South Dakota ahead of January’s legislative session that will need to be tackled, why and what can be done?
One of the biggest challenges coming up will depend on the outcome of ballot measures in November. If needed, there will be a desire to quickly provide clarity on marijuana laws, on expanding Medicaid, and on providing any additional clarity to abortion laws in South Dakota.
Taylor Rae Rehfeldt:
Age: 33
Profession: Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
Party Affiliation: Republican
Political/public service experience: State Representative (elected in 2020), South Dakota Association of Nurse Anesthetists (SDANA) President, President-Elect, Board Member (2017-2020), South Dakota Nurse Association District 10 President and Vice President (2018-2020)
South Dakotans are voting on two ballot measures this year: one to expand Medicaid and one to legalize recreational marijuana. How do you plan to vote on those measures and why?
I support expansion of Medicaid because it helps people. The benefits are extensive and outweigh the negatives. For me, it's simple, because it helps families and I also believe it is a fiscally responsible decision for our state. I would have prefered to pass expansion through the legislature. Medicaid expansion is a large financial decision and our state needs will change with time. Medicaid expansion as a constitutional amendment does not allow flexibility.
Over the last couple years, I have supported both medical and recreational marijuana. The citizens of South Dakota voted to legalize both medical and recreational marijuana and I have respected their votes.
What is the next big challenge for South Dakota ahead of January’s legislative session that will need to be tackled, why and what can be done?
I believe the largest policy debates will surround healthcare, housing, juvenile justice, childcare, and taxes. The main challenge will be financial and we will need to determine the best way to support SD citizens. We need to make decisions that consider not only today but also for 5, 10, and 15 years down the road. We will need to support inflationary increases within education, healthcare, roads/bridges, and public safety/law enforcement.
More:In contrast to some elected leaders, poll shows SD voters support more gun restrictions
District 15 House
Linda Duba:
Age: 66
Profession: Retired
Party Affiliation: Democrat
Political/public service experience: Two terms in the South Dakota House of Representatives (2019-2022) for District 15
South Dakotans are voting on two ballot measures this year: one to expand Medicaid and one to legalize recreational marijuana. How do you plan to vote on those measures and why?
I support both ballot measures. Medicaid expansion will bring healthcare coverage to almost 47,000 adults who currently can’t afford coverage because it’s too expensive or not offered by their current employer. We are facing an employee shortage. Medicaid will help ensure a healthier workforce and reduce costs for our small rural hospitals. Many people without insurance delay care today. Medicaid will cover their preventive and acute care needs.
I support the will of the people. I served on the task force that created a solid framework for recreational marijuana use.
What is the next big challenge for South Dakota ahead of January’s legislative session that will need to be tackled, why and what can be done?
We have so many! I’m going to give you three:
SD Social Studies Standards review: we need teachers and administrators to continue to provide fact based comments on why the proposed standards are not right for South Dakota. I ask teachers to reach out to the legislators and SD Board of Education members with their concerns. We should revert to the 2021 proposed standards for comment and adoption.
Prison staffing and reform: many of state prisons have a critical staff shortage which impacts prisoner, staff, and public safety. Salaries are not the only issue. We’ve had to cut training and rehabilitation programs because of staffing. This will lead to potential violence. The raise announced on Aug. 9 is a short term fix. If we don’t make substantial progress on hiring by November, then we must meet again with Secretary [Kellie] Wasko and determine other drastic measures.
Zebra Mussels are spreading rapidly across our lakes and streams. They threaten our fish population as well as the potential to lower the value of lakeside property. The Game Fish and Parks Department needs to make this a priority now and work with Lake Associations as well as consult with the state agencies from Iowa and Minnesota who are successfully containing these invasive species.
Kadyn Wittman:
Age: 31
Profession: Director of Development at the Sioux Falls Family YMCA
Party Affiliation: Democrat
Political/public service experience: I am an active board member for several Sioux Falls area nonprofits, including Establishing Sustainable Connections and The Transformation Project Advocacy Network.
South Dakotans are voting on two ballot measures this year: one to expand Medicaid and one to legalize recreational marijuana. How do you plan to vote on those measures and why?
I will be voting to expand Medicaid because it helps reduce health disparities in communities of color and individuals with a lower socioeconomic status. I will also be voting in favor of legalizing recreational marijuana. I believe that this will allow cannabis to be better regulated and taxed, in addition to reducing criminal penalties and incarceration for cannabis users across South Dakota.
What is the next big challenge for South Dakota ahead of January’s legislative session that will need to be tackled, why and what can be done?
At the moment, the conversation surrounding Medicaid expansion is one of the most important issues to be addressed. There seems to be misinformation in the public sphere around what this expansion would mean and look like, and a strong public education campaign needs to take place following the passage of this ballot measure.
More:South Dakota has a second chance to legalize recreational marijuana. What does it mean?
Matt Rosburg:
Age: 44
Profession: Manager, Small Business
Party Affiliation: Republican
Political/public service experience: I have not been active in politics other than helping out on some issue campaigns and with some local organizations. As far as public service, I worked for a short time as a paramedic, and continue to volunteer with various local organizations.
South Dakotans are voting on two ballot measures this year: one to expand Medicaid and one to legalize recreational marijuana. How do you plan to vote on those measures and why?
I plan to vote no on the expansion of Medicaid. There is no reason that taxpayer dollars need to be spent providing insurance coverage for young, able-bodied workers with no dependents. These are people that are fully capable of providing for their own insurance costs or finding a job that would provide that along with their employment. Also, the reimbursement from the Federal government is not something that will continue at the rate that is constantly being sold to SD citizens. That rate will decline rapidly, and when that money goes away, we will have to cover the difference, and it will explode the state budget. If you want to drastically raise taxes on everyone in the state, Medicaid expansion is the way to start.
I also plan to vote no on the legalization of recreational marijuana. One of the problems with this measure is that it does not address many of the issues that will arise from its passage. Also, looking at any other state that has already passed this, it is not going as well as it was told it would. Everyone thinks that this will be a pot of gold for the state, but in other states, for every $1 in revenue, almost $4 additional is spent dealing with the issues arising from legalization. Those aren’t even the biggest issues, but there has been no information I have seen that would convince me to vote for this yet.
Joni Tschetter: Did not respond to questions in time for publication.
More:How South Dakota's gubernatorial candidates are using social media ahead of November election
District 25 House
Dan Ahlers:
Age: 48
Profession: Business owner & substitute teacher.
Party Affiliation: Democrat
Political/public service experience: Past President of the Dell Rapids Chamber of Commerce. President of the Dell Rapids Community Fund. State Legislator 2007-2010 & 2017-2018.
South Dakotans are voting on two ballot measures this year: one to expand Medicaid and one to legalize recreational marijuana. How do you plan to vote on those measures and why?
I will support Medicaid expansion. It will provide healthcare coverage for many of South Dakota’s working poor. Some critics believe the people receiving Medicaid coverage are unemployed and living off other taxpayers. This notion is simply untrue. I know many working people who don’t have healthcare coverage because they simply can’t afford it. Both Republican and Democratic lead states have passed Medicaid expansion and have done so without the tax increases predicted by many of our legislators and governor. States that have expanded Medicaid have shown improved access to health care, increased affordability, improved health for low-income populations, expanded coverage for low income mothers before and after pregnancy, strengthened rural health care providers, and improved state economies.
I will support recreational marijuana for the simple fact that South Dakotans already passed it in 2020. Many of our state legislators and current governor have a record of ignoring the will of the people. In the past, we have passed a minimum wage increase, marijuana and campaign finance reform. Each time, the legislature has tried to change, overturn or simply ignore it. Their job is to listen to the people they represent. If South Dakotans want marijuana, then it is our job to make sure it happens in a safe and responsible way.
What is the next big challenge for South Dakota ahead of January’s legislative session that will need to be tackled, why and what can be done?
Our state, like many others, faces a workforce shortage. The Baby Boomers are retiring, fewer people are working multiple jobs and there are fewer people to work. We need to be listening to the business community about their needs. The state, our university and tech school system should be working hand in hand with employers to meet their employment needs. This communication happens to a degree, but I think we can do better. We can improve funding of our colleges and tech schools. South Dakota graduates lead the nation in student debt. This debt load limits their opportunities. Graduates are drawn to states with higher wages and greater opportunities. Sixty-four percent of South Dakota’s college graduates leave the state. We are experiencing shortages in fields like nursing and teaching. Sixty-two percent of these graduates leave the state. We cannot afford to let this trend continue.
David Kills A Hundred: Did not respond to questions in time for publication.
Jon Hansen: Did not respond to questions in time for publication.
Randy Gross: Did not respond to questions in time for publication.
Follow Annie Todd on Twitter @AnnieTodd96. Reach out to her with tips, questions and other political news at atodd@argusleader.com or give her a call at 605-215-3757.
This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Here's who is running for South Dakota House in districts 13-25
