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Gov. Rhoden accused of using state resources for political ambitions, President Trump's agenda
State Politics

Gov. Rhoden accused of using state resources for political ambitions, President Trump's agenda

Governor's office defends Operation: Prairie Thunder amid political heat

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Joe Sneve
Jul 29, 2025
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Gov. Rhoden accused of using state resources for political ambitions, President Trump's agenda
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Gov. Larry Rhoden addresses the media during a news conference to announce Operation Prairie Thunder on July 28. (Sioux Falls Searchlight)

South Dakota’s governor is facing blowback after announcing a sweeping immigration enforcement initiative in support of President Donald Trump’s crackdown on illegal entries into the United States.

Democratic Party leaders, social justice advocates and critics of the White House's aggressive enforcement of U.S. immigration laws are voicing concern over Operation: Prairie Thunder, a public safety pilot unveiled by Gov. Larry Rhoden on Monday that will deploy South Dakota Highway Patrol officers, National Guard personnel and Department of Corrections resources in support of federal immigration enforcement, specifically U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in eastern South Dakota.

Opponents say the move sends the wrong message and signals a broader alignment with the president’s hardline immigration stance potentially motivated by the prospects of a 2026 gubernatorial campaign.

South Dakota prisons to turn illegal immigrants over to ICE

South Dakota prisons to turn illegal immigrants over to ICE

Joe Sneve
·
Jul 28
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