South Dakota’s nine Sioux tribes are rightfully proud of their culture, heritage, and traditions. The tribal presence in South Dakota is one of the things that make our state truly unique. It is, however, no secret that there are some difficult challenges facing South Dakota’s tribes today. In many parts... Continue Reading
South Dakotans from all walks of life have a long history of answering the call to serve in our nation’s armed forces. This high rate of service means that South Dakota is home to a great many veterans. In fact, it is difficult to imagine a life in South Dakota... Continue Reading
Families across South Dakota and the nation are well aware of the cost of health care today, and it is rightly an issue that should concern leaders in Congress and other levels of government. While partisan politics often overshadows some of the common-sense steps we can take to improve access... Continue Reading
The South Dakota American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary are two venerable organizations that serve South Dakota’s veteran community and make rich contributions to South Dakota’s social fabric. The Legion’s commitment to civic education is nowhere more apparent than in the annual Boys and Girls State General Assemblies-both of... Continue Reading
South Dakotans are very familiar with the growth of the renewable fuels industry in our state. Ethanol has created thousands of jobs in South Dakota, provided farmers an additional market for their harvest, and spurred research into cellulosic ethanol – the next generation of renewable fuels. People less familiar with... Continue Reading
After many months of hard work, deliberation, and numerous deadline extensions, the Senate and the House of Representatives have passed the final version of the 2008 Farm Bill. This legislation impacts the lives of all Americans, but its particular importance to South Dakota cannot be overstated. From the start of... Continue Reading
As any parent with more than one child will tell you, no two children are the same. I have been reminded of that over and over again for the past 18 years. Our oldest daughter, now a sophomore in college, has what I often hear referred to as “first child... Continue Reading
Last Thursday, the U.S. Senate adopted my bipartisan resolution designating May as “National Physical Fitness and Sports Month.” Developing healthy habits is important for all of us, both young and old. Snow may still be falling in places, but Spring is on the way in South Dakota, so across the... Continue Reading
South Dakotans understand the importance of our state’s water system. Periodic droughts are a fact of life in South Dakota, so maintaining an efficient system to distribute water across large, rural areas is a challenge that public officials on the federal, state, and local level must work together to meet.... Continue Reading
Speaking to school groups in South Dakota, I am often asked how I ended up pursuing a career in public service. It is impossible for me to think about the path that led me to where I am today without giving thanks for the guidance of many people who have... Continue Reading
There are many in South Dakota who have answered the call to defend America with extraordinary military service. All of South Dakota’s veterans deserve recognition for their sacrifice, but special tribute must be paid to those who have been wounded in defense of freedom. April 13-19, is National Paralyzed Veterans... Continue Reading
The cold South Dakota winter may be drawing to a close, but regardless of the temperature, South Dakotans can count on plenty of windy days. Wind is an ever-present reality in South Dakota, and I believe wind energy can be a permanent part of America’s long term clean, renewable energy... Continue Reading
