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November 15, 2024

South Dakotans react to Thune, Noem impacts

SIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO) — South Dakotans are still buzzing about last week’s election, not so much about the final results, but rather the rising national profile the state is receiving since the votes were cast.

We find out what local voters are saying about John Thune ascending to Senate Majority Leader and Governor Kristi Noem being tapped as Homeland Security Secretary in President-elect Tump’s cabinet.

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The coffee talk at Josiah’s in downtown Sioux Falls often centers around politics.

“I surround myself with people from different views, so it’s interesting to hear their logic and sometimes you go, yeah, that is a great comment. Sometimes you go, what are you thinking, you know,” Gene McDaniel of Sioux Falls said.

But political discussions are even more intriguing with the prospect of South Dakota wielding more political clout with Republicans in control of both Congress and the White House… especially with John Thune becoming the new Senate Majority Leader.

“He’s truly a statesman in the way I like to see a statesman. He’s a father and a grandfather and I believe he’s going to bring that level of honesty and integrity to the office,” Bobbie Bohlen of Milbank, SD said.

Other voters we spoke with say they hope Thune, as the new Senate Majority Leader, will stand up to some of President-elect Trump’s appointments to his new administration.

“I hope, I pray, that he’s strong enough and has enough support in our government, because right now, I’m very concerned about that, especially with some of the appointments that have been made by our future president,” McDaniel said.

Former Republican state legislator Casey Murschel doubts South Dakota will benefit all that much since both Thune and Noem have already spent time much of their time in the national political spotlight.

“I think that it’s going to be challenging times here. But, I’m not sure that neither Senator Thune’s new position or the governor’s new position will have a strong impact in South Dakota,” Murschel said.

We found a range of opinions in this brunch crowd. But just about everyone agreed that they’re glad and relieved the election is over.

“We all had a way that we voted, and so now let’s get behind what’s happened and move forward,” Bohlen said.

Other voters we spoke with say Noem will have a tall order dealing with the southern border as Homeland Security Secretary. Some are questioning her qualifications for the position.