Left-wing activists urge South Dakota Democrat to exit Senate race in favor of independent
Supporters of idea say former Democrat Bengs has edge in funding, poll numbers
Left-wing politicos are hurling spoiler accusations in South Dakota. But this time, it’s backers of the independent calling for the Democratic candidate’s departure from the U.S. Senate race.
A second run for federal office by a former Democrat-turned-independent with statewide name recognition and a growing campaign war chest has some progressive activists questioning whether Democrats are backing the strongest challenger to incumbent Republican Sen. Mike Rounds.
The debate has intensified in recent weeks as independent candidate Brian Bengs continues to outraise Democratic nominee Julian Beaudion. Public polling also suggests the former Democratic Senate candidate may be better positioned to compete against Rounds in November.
