The Mitchell Area Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee will host a public candidate and ballot issue forum on May 19 at Dakota Wesleyan University’s Sherman Center. Voters will hear from representatives on both sides of the ballot issue, as well as candidates running for Mitchell School Board and Mitchell City Council ahead of the upcoming election.
South Dakota voters must register by May 18 to be eligible for upcoming elections. Officials urge residents to act now to avoid missing the deadline.
South Dakota Secretary of State Monae L. Johnson outlined key deadlines and challenges impacting absentee voting for the 2026 primary election, including delayed ballot finalization and new requirements.
Candidates from all four Mitchell wards shared priorities on housing affordability, economic growth, and city leadership during a public forum April 15. Discussions highlighted key differences on term limits and development strategies.
Mitchell School Board member Deb Everson has taken out a nominating petition to run for re-election to the only seat up this year. Petitions are available through March 24, and a June 2 election will be held only if more than one candidate files.
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley’s proposals to tighten campaign finance rules and expand open-meeting requirements cleared the Senate State Affairs Committee and now head to the full Senate.
The Watertown School District and Codington County have finalized a combined election agreement beginning with the June 2, 2026 vote. The partnership is designed to reduce election costs and increase voter turnout through coordinated administration.
Robert Arnold, a 20-year-old Oglala Sioux Tribe member and student at Dakota State University, has launched his 2026 campaign for South Dakota governor. The young Democrat brings a fresh perspective and early political experience as a former legislative page and intern. Arnold will face a Democratic primary in June, while several Republicans and an Independent have also joined the race.
The South Dakota Secretary of State’s Office has released a draft voter registration form and is inviting public feedback to improve clarity and usability. Secretary Monae Johnson says the updated form aims to be easier to use and fully compliant with state and federal election laws.
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has joined 26 Republican Attorneys General in supporting President Trump’s June 7 decision to activate the National Guard in California under 10 U.S.C. § 12406.