South Dakota faces important decisions over the next four years, and we need a governor who is prepared to meet those challenges head-on.  Over the next several months, I will be announcing my plans and proposals to address these challenges and move South Dakota forward.  On this page, you can read about my views on many of these issues:

Jobs and Economic Development

The worldwide recession has affected every one of us, and South Dakota currently faces a challenging budget situation. The key to resolving the budget situation, and to ending the recession in South Dakota, is to jump-start economic development and bring more jobs into our state. Ronald Reagan said that you don’t spend your way out of a recession – you grow your way out. As Governor, that is what I intend to do. Read more about Dennis' view on Jobs and Economic Development.

Energy

The answer to our nation’s long-term energy needs is not a “cap-and-trade” program that would put significant new energy costs on South Dakota’s families and businesses. The answer is clean, renewable energy – and that should be a major priority for South Dakota. It’s good for farmers, it’s good for the environment, and it’s good for the state’s economy. South Dakota has been producing clean, low-cost, renewable energy for decades – from our four Missouri River dams. Our state must do everything we can to advance the development of renewable energy sources like wind and ethanol. Read more about Dennis' view on Energy.
 

Healthcare

There’s no question that we need to reform healthcare. Healthcare costs are escalating and too many people can’t afford to get the care they need. But the Democratic plan for a federal takeover of healthcare is not the answer. We need a healthcare system that allows you to get the treatment you need, when you need it – without interference from government bureaucrats. Read more about Dennis' view on Healthcare.
 

K-12 Education

Education is the bedrock of economic development and the key to expanding opportunity in South Dakota. We must ensure that every student is prepared to enter the workforce, or successfully attend a technical institute or university. Our young people should have the skills to be productive citizens and to take advantage of the economic opportunities of our state. Read more about Dennis' view on K-12 Education.

State Budget and Taxes

A recession is not the time to raise taxes. I will not raise taxes as governor. I will not support any new taxes or any increases in existing taxes. I would only consider a tax increase in response to an emergency, such as the temporary gas tax increase to pay for snow removal after the blizzards of 1997. Read more about Dennis' view on State Budget and Taxes.


Learn more about all the issues:
Agriculture
Higher Education
Protecting Families
Second Amendment
Tourism
Veterans