Key Election Dates

PRIMARY

APRIL 17: Absentee voting begins

MAY 18: Voter registration deadline

JUNE 2: Election Day

GENERAL

SEPTEMBER 18: Absentee voting begins

OCTOBER 19: Voter registration deadline

NOVEMBER 3: Election Day

Dan Ahlers for Governor

Dan's Mission Statement:

Leadership That Listens

I believe the best government starts with listening. You deserve leaders who hear your concerns, respect different viewpoints, and are willing to work across party lines to get things done. That’s how I’ve served—as a legislator, a community volunteer, and a small business owner. And that’s how I’ll lead as Governor: with common sense, accountability, and a deep respect for the people of this state.

​​

South Dakota is at a crossroads. Families are feeling squeezed by rising costs. Schools are struggling to keep teachers. Rural communities are fighting to stay vibrant. And too often, politics gets in the way of practical solutions that actually help people. I’m running for Governor because I believe we can do better and because I know how to get things done.

​

I’ve spent my life in South Dakota: raising a family, running a small business, volunteering in my community, and working across party lines in the Legislature. I understand the difference between political rhetoric and real results, and I know that effective leadership means showing up, listening, and making tough but responsible choices.

​

Now is the moment for leadership that focuses less on headlines and more on outcomes. Leadership that respects taxpayers while investing in education, workforce development, and infrastructure. Leadership that strengthens rural communities, supports veterans and seniors, and ensures state government works efficiently and transparently for everyone.

​

I’m not running to divide South Dakotans—I’m running to bring people together around common goals: opportunity, fairness, and a future our kids want to stay for. ​That’s why I’m running for Governor.