South Dakota Candidates Detail Stances on Data Centers, Farm Bill, and Agency Hiring

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Dan Ahlers and incumbent Governor Larry Rhoden presented contrasting views on state economic development and infrastructure management during interviews released on October 31, 2026. The discussions, conducted for The Scouting Lounge, focused on the upcoming election and specific policy proposals affecting South Dakota businesses and residents.

Ahlers, who is currently trailing in several polls, stated that multiple surveys show him behind Rhoden by three to 10 percentage points, though one post-debate poll indicated a three-point lead. He said he campaigns as if he is behind because he is a Democrat in a Republican-dominated state. Ahlers criticized current economic incentives, arguing that funds often flow to large, out-of-state companies rather than local businesses. He cited $69 million in incentives given to CJ Schwan's as an example and highlighted a Wakonda farmer's hempcrete project that moved to Iowa, citing the loss of 10 to 12 jobs paying $22 to $25 an hour.

The Democratic nominee also addressed the use of Flock license plate-reading cameras, arguing that the technology invades privacy and requires state and federal legislation to establish safeguards. He said the data can cross state lines and be accessed by outside entities. On mining, Ahlers claimed that a lack of local regulations allows operations to appear in residents' backyards, particularly in western South Dakota. He proposed common-sense regulations to protect individual rights without creating excessive government oversight. Regarding state agency leadership, Ahlers said he would prioritize qualifications over political affiliation when hiring secretaries.

Attorney General Marty Jackley, a congressional candidate, discussed his legislative record, noting that he introduced 10 bills during the previous session and all 10 passed. He said the measures addressed public safety, election integrity, and open-meeting laws with bipartisan support. Jackley emphasized the need for a new farm bill, stating that the last one was enacted in 2018. He identified food security, producer certainty, value-added agriculture, ethanol, and biodiesel as key issues for South Dakota. On Social Security, Jackley argued that inflation and fraud are driving the program's financial problems and suggested addressing fraud and reviewing eligibility to preserve the system without raising taxes.

Governor Rhoden described the previous two legislative sessions as difficult due to divisions within the Republican caucus. He said his administration worked across party lines to pass major legislation involving prison funding, the pipeline, and property tax relief. Rhoden addressed public opposition to data centers and artificial intelligence by suggesting that rhetoric and potential foreign influence are shaping some concerns. He stated that his administration introduced a data center Bill of Rights to treat projects like other economic development proposals while protecting ratepayers and natural resources.