The South Dakota Democratic Party has a new leader. Shane Merrill of Parker was elected the new chair of the party during a Saturday meeting in Rapid City. Merrill, who had been vice chair of the party, replaces Jessica Slaight-Hansen. She was recalled in August and removed from office amidst allegations of creating a hostile work environment and violating the party’s constitution. Jessica Meyers of Sioux Falls was elected vice chair. The 31-year old Merrill is the third chair of the South Dakota Democratic Party this year.