Etched into stone at the Korean War Memorial are the words, “Freedom is not free.” The generations of Americans who have made immense sacrifices in service to the United States know all too well what it costs to defend our country and secure our freedoms. They know what they sacrificed... Continue Reading
I recently returned from a bipartisan congressional delegation trip to the Middle East, including Israel. Our trip was in direct response to Hamas’ savage attack on innocent men, women, and children. We went to show our support for Israel and to deliver a clear message with one voice: The United... Continue Reading
A crisp, cool morning. The sight of blaze orange all around. Shouts of “rooster!” followed by the crack of a shotgun. It can only mean one thing: It’s pheasant season in South Dakota. Ring-necked pheasants were introduced in South Dakota over 100 years ago. Not long after they were introduced, our... Continue Reading
Hamas militants recently breached the border in Gaza and attacked a dozen Israeli communities. What had begun as an ordinary, peaceful Saturday morning quickly became a tragic day in history. Sadly, more than two dozen Americans were among the 1,300-plus killed – an intolerable loss. Israel is again at war... Continue Reading
Energy touches just about everything we do. More than just keeping the lights on, energy keeps America moving. It’s critical to bringing food and other goods to market. It supports our health care system and provides educational opportunities for students. And it powers critical technologies that keep businesses, farms, and... Continue Reading
Picking up one of South Dakota’s local newspapers, you quickly get the pulse of the community. The front page often captures a day in the life of that town, reporting on local government, high school sports, and other stories that affect the area. The local paper is an important institution... Continue Reading
Ten years ago, Winter Storm Atlas swept through western South Dakota. When it started, no one had any idea that it would be one of the most devastating snowstorms in the area’s history. Atlas dropped as much as 5 feet of snow in some areas. Wind gusts reached 71 miles... Continue Reading
For two and a half years, a crisis has raged at the southern border. Recently, in less than one week, more than 35,000 illegal immigrants were caught trying to cross the border. That’s more than the population of Aberdeen, South Dakota, crossing the border in just four days. This crisis... Continue Reading
Pheasant season. Deer season. Turkey season. There’s plenty of opportunities in South Dakota to get outdoors and partake in our state’s hunting tradition. Hunting is a part of our way of life, our traditions, and our economy. South Dakotans know that, but the Biden administration has once again proved itself... Continue Reading
Like a lot of South Dakotans, I can’t wait for Friday night lights in the fall. I enjoy being able to attend games and other sporting events around the state throughout the season. Friday night football, Dakota Relays, Legion baseball, and the Summit League tournament – they’re all part of... Continue Reading
It’s that time of year again. School is back in session, classrooms are full of students, and sports teams are taking the field. The beginning of a new school year is an important moment, not just for kids on their first day of kindergarten or seniors setting out for their... Continue Reading
There’s no better place to be in the summertime than South Dakota. I’m fortunate to get to spend so much of the year traveling our state, visiting our communities, and hearing from my most trusted advisers: South Dakotans. The month of August presents a unique opportunity to spend extra time... Continue Reading
