Rapid City – Republican Heather Baxter, a state representative from District 34, has been elected South Dakota secretary of state, according to the Associated Press. She defeated Democrat Terrence Davis of Sioux Falls and Libertarian Tamara Lesnar of Grenville in the November 2026 election.
Role of the secretary of state
The secretary of state serves as South Dakota’s chief elections officer, responsible for securing elections, ensuring they are accessible, and accurately administered. The office also handles business registrations and licensing, maintains official state records, and provides information and services to the public.
Baxter’s path to the office
Baxter entered the race after winning the Republican Party convention, where she unseated incumbent Monae Johnson. The convention outcome echoed the 2022 GOP convention, when Johnson defeated then‑incumbent Steve Barnett for the nomination.
Before her legislative career, Baxter owned a small business in Rapid City. She was first elected to the state House in 2024, joining a wave of lawmakers who unseated several incumbents that year.
Campaign priorities
Baxter’s campaign emphasized improving communication between the secretary of state’s office, county auditors, business owners and the public. She called for greater civic engagement and stronger citizen oversight.
One of her top priorities is modernizing the office’s website, which she described as outdated and difficult to navigate. A refreshed site, she said, will make it easier for South Dakotans to find election information, public records and business resources.
Opponents’ backgrounds and platforms
Democratic candidate Terrence Davis, a former Tennessee state trooper pursuing a doctorate in law, ran unopposed for his party’s nomination. Davis highlighted building trust, ensuring fairness and bringing a balanced, competent approach to the office. He also referenced his personal experience with homelessness and foster care as motivations for public service.
Libertarian candidate Tamara Lesnar offered a third‑party alternative. This was her third run for public office, having previously sought a U.S. Senate seat in 2022 and a state House seat in 2024. Lesnar advocated for a statewide online portal allowing registered voters to anonymously weigh in on pending legislation, giving lawmakers another gauge of public opinion.
What’s next for the office
As secretary of state, Baxter will oversee the upcoming 2028 election cycle, continuing efforts to keep South Dakota’s elections secure and accessible. Her focus on website modernization and enhanced communication aims to provide clearer information for voters, businesses and auditors alike.
South Dakota voters can expect updates on the office’s initiatives through press releases and public briefings as Baxter’s term begins.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
