DE SMET — Todd Wilkinson recently announced that he will seek election to the South Dakota House of Representatives from District 8.
Wilkinson had previously been preparing to run for the State Senate. Following recent developments in the race, he said he believes the House is now the best place for him to serve the district.
“When I first began considering a run, my goal was simply to step forward and serve the people of our district,” Wilkinson said. “With the changes that have taken place in the Senate race, I believe the best way for me to do that is by running for the House.”
Earlier this month, state Sen. Casey Crabtree announced he would suspend his campaign for Congress and return his focus to the state Senate.
“I respect Casey and the service he has provided to our district and our state,” Wilkinson said. “Rather than creating a contested Senate primary, I believe it makes more sense to move forward in the House race and focus on representing our communities.”
Both District 8 House seats are open this year, as neither Rep. Tim Reisch nor Rep. Tim Walburg is seeking re-election after their time in the Legislature. Wilkinson said he appreciates their service and their work representing District 8 in Pierre.
“I believe our district benefits from leaders who focus on practical solutions and work constructively to get things done,” Wilkinson said. “That’s the approach I’ll bring to Pierre.”
A native of De Smet, Wilkinson said he looks forward to visiting with voters across the district in the weeks ahead.
“I’m grateful for the encouragement and support I’ve already received,” Wilkinson said. “I’m excited to continue this campaign and talk with voters about how we can keep South Dakota strong for the next generation.”
Wilkinson is a fourth-generation South Dakotan, cattleman, attorney, and community leader from De Smet. He has operated the Wilkinson Law Firm for nearly 40 years and served two decades as Kingsbury County State’s Attorney. Todd also operates Wilkinson Livestock with his son Nick and served as President of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association in 2023.
For more information, visit ToddWilkinsonSD.com.
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