State Politics

The Dakota Scout's coverage of South Dakota government and politics

Rhoden's Social Services secretary resigns

DSS Deputy Secretary Brenda Tidball-Zeltinger elevated to post in interim

Oct 16, 2026

Joe Sneve

Smithfield to reapply for permit for $1.3B Sioux Falls pork plant

City unlikely to appeal judicial ruling that invalidated prior municipal approval for new slaughterhouse

Oct 13, 2026

Joe Sneve

Senate candidate Bengs vows to stay out of Democratic, Republican caucuses

Brian Bengs, Dan Osborn and Seth Bodnar say independents would have leverage against two-party system

Oct 13, 2026

Jonathan Ellis

Data center debate prompts Sioux Falls City Council to plan public outreach

City Council’s Regulatory Oversight Committee wants input on potential regulations for industry

Oct 12, 2026

Patrick Lalley

Syracuse University study spotlights Sioux Falls newspaper

The Dakota Scout, other news startups value independence, strive to balance journalism and business

Oct 11, 2026

The Dakota Scout

Passing the badge | Going home | Is the Bengs' ad fair? | Parking meter metrics | Legislator troubles

SPONSORED BY FIRST BANK & TRUST, BEAL DISTRIBUTING & JUNA SLEEP SYSTEMS

Oct 10, 2026

The Dakota Scout, Joe Sneve, Jonathan Ellis

Independent candidate says ad linking him to Democrats violates FCC rules

South Dakota Conservative PAC defends political attack commercial as legitimate arsenal in battle for U.S. Senate between incumbent Republican Mike Rounds, challenger Brian Bengs

Oct 9, 2026

Joe Sneve

South Dakota lawmaker faces DUI after allegedly driving combine into signs, tree

Sen. Mark Lapka allegedly damaged roadside markers late Tuesday in McPherson County

Oct 8, 2026

Joe Sneve

South Dakota's Paul Nelson built iconic pheasant hunting empire. Now it’s for sale

PHOTOS: Gettysburg hunting destination where Dick Cheney took refuge after 9/11 listed for $74.M

Oct 8, 2026

The Dakota Scout