Rural economy
Supports Main Street businesses, local economies and expanded market access for family farms.
Source checked October 27, 2026 · Publication date shown in the linked source when available.← Back to South Dakota · GovernorSourced issue position Sourced issue position Sourced issue position
THE 2026 CANDIDATE FILE
Dan Ahlers
Candidate for Governor · South Dakota
Running mate: Steven McCleerey
THE PERSON
Background
Dan Ahlers is a South Dakota businessman and former state legislator from Dell Rapids. His career includes retail and small-business ownership, and he has served in both chambers of the South Dakota Legislature.
Roots
- Service: South Dakota House, 2006–2008 and 2017–2019; Senate, 2008–2010.
Education
- Augustana University · B.A., government and international affairs, 1997
Background sources checked October 27, 2026.
THE POLICIES
Where they stand
Campaign promises are labeled separately from past actions. These are sourced positions, not endorsements or predictions. No stance is assigned from party affiliation.
Education
Supports early-childhood education, childcare and workforce pathways into college, careers and skilled trades.
Source checked October 27, 2026 · Publication date shown in the linked source when available.Healthcare
Supports keeping rural healthcare accessible as part of investment in local communities.
Source checked October 27, 2026 · Publication date shown in the linked source when available.THE ELECTION
Ballot & sources
Governor · November 3, 2026
Candidate listing checked October 28, 2026.
South Dakota Secretary of State · Active general election candidates ↗The candidate’s name and party follow the official ballot source. Backgrounds and issue positions are checked separately. A candidate is not an officeholder-elect unless a verified result establishes that status.