PIERRE, SD (Mitchell Now) — Monday is the final day to vote for the South Dakota Highway Patrol as having the best-looking vehicles in American law enforcement.
The department has a strong entry for 2026. The submitted photo features a backdrop of the rocky outcroppings of The Needles at the north end of Custer State Park perfectly framing an all-white squad car. State trooper in beige with black trim adorns the rear passenger quarter panel. On the side door is the black triangle SDHP logo. The sleek Ford Mustang looks ready to roar to life when called upon.
The competition has surged in popularity in recent years, with agencies putting their best foot forward. Vehicles are typically shown alongside state landmarks. Florida has a backdrop of the famous Sunshine Skyway Bridge in Tampa Bay. Tennessee and New Jersey used waterfalls for their photos. Michigan and Connecticut chose lighthouses. Some chose fighter jets to bolster their case. Indiana went with the 50-yard-line of Memorial Stadium, the Hoosiers’ national championship banner hanging between an SUV and a patrol car.
The 2026 Best Looking Cruiser Contest is put on by the American Association of State Troopers. Vote here. The deadline is Monday, July 13th.