State And Local Elections Might Be Combining

State And Local Elections Might Be Combining

South Dakota’s election dates for municipalities and school boards could be changing.

The state House of Representatives wants those contests held on the same days in June or November when statewide primary or general elections are held, starting in 2025. The 47 to 19 vote sends the issue to the Senate. Both local Yankton Representatives Ryan Cwach and Mike Stevens voted against the bill following recommendations by the City of Yankton and Yankton School District.

Stevens says there is good arguments on both sides of the issue…

Stevens adds that on the flip side, its important that city and school board issues get their fair day in court…

Historically in South Dakota, voter turnout has varied substantially when local elections weren’t held on the same day as better-publicized statewide June primary elections.