Jamie Smith, enthusiastic supporters launch Sioux Falls mayoral bid

Smith promises to be an available leader for all residents of state's largest city

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Standing in the shadow of the Washington Pavilion — a building that once housed his high school — state legislator and 2022 gubernatorial candidate Jamie Smith officially launched his campaign for mayor of Sioux Falls.

“For those who have not yet met me, my name is Jamie Smith,” he said to cheers from a crowd of supporters. “Today, I am officially announcing my candidacy to be the next mayor of Sioux Falls, South Dakota.”

Smith, a Democrat who spent years in the state Legislature and served as House minority leader, has long been floated as a potential candidate to succeed Mayor Paul TenHaken, who is term-limited and cannot seek reelection in 2026. Earlier this week, Smith confirmed he would enter the race.

The announcement, delivered just steps from where Smith once wrestled and sang in choir at the old Washington High School, kicks off a campaign that will lean heavily on his deep local roots and public service background.

“My story starts at the 700 block of South Duluth, less than a mile from here,” Smith told the crowd. “I was born into a family of teachers, professors, and public servants.”

About 150 people supporters cheered the speech. Many held “I’m with Smith” signs in white lettering on a blue background.

Smith spent years as a public-school teacher and coach in the Sioux Falls School District before transitioning to a career in real estate, where he currently works with Hegg Realtors. He said both roles — in classrooms and helping families find homes — have given him a unique understanding of the city’s challenges and potential.

While Smith ultimately lost the 2022 race for governor to Republican incumbent Kristi Noem, he performed strongly in Sioux Falls — a showing that energized local Democrats and added momentum to speculation about a possible mayoral run.

Among the people who introduced him was downtown restaurant owner Michael Haskett. He recalled working with Smith at Gigglebee’s when Smith was a supervisor there, the restaurant-entertainment landmark blocks from Smith’s home and where he worked after attending Augustana University.

Haskett touted Smith’s experience and connection as a lawmaker, teacher and community servant.

“Most importantly, Sioux Falls is the only place he’s called home,” Haskett said.

In his speech, Smith emphasized priorities like smart development, public safety, and civic engagement, arguing that Sioux Falls needs “real solutions” as it continues to grow.

“We don’t need empty promises about ‘economic development’ and ‘public safety,’” he said. “We need a mayor who can work with the citizens of Sioux Falls to find them.”

Smith’s entry into the race adds a well-known name to what is expected to be a crowded field. Among the others rumored or expected to run are former City Councilor Christine Erickson, Downtown Sioux Falls Inc. President Joe Batcheller, and former Mayor Mike Huether, who led the city from 2010 to 2018.

“I go into every legislative session with the belief that government can be a force for good, when it is powered by the people it serves,” Smith said. “As your mayor, I will always be available to you.”