Rapid City, SD – In the expansive District 27, which stretches from the Black Hills to the eastern plains, Republican candidate Anthony Kathol is seeking to turn a long‑held Democratic Senate seat red in the 2026 election. The open seat follows the term‑limited departure of longtime Democratic Senator Red Dawn Foster.
Candidate background and personal story
Kathol, a native of a 320‑acre family farm near Yankton, describes his Catholic faith as the cornerstone of his identity. He earned a degree in civil engineering from the South Dakota School of Mines in 1991 and spent decades designing water and sewer infrastructure, including projects on the Pine Ridge reservation. After serving on active duty, he briefly considered a monastic life as a Benedictine, saying he was prepared to give up his pension, vehicle and home to serve the Lord.
Political experience and prior run
This is Kathol’s second bid for public office. In 2024 he lost to the incumbent by a narrow margin of 289 votes, a result he says has sharpened his campaign strategy. “I feel very good about this open seat,” he told reporters. “I now have experience from the first time I ran two years ago, and I know where to put my resources.”
Campaign platform and pillars
Kathol frames his campaign around “protecting the South Dakota way of life,” emphasizing three pillars: faith, service and accountability. He argues that the Democratic Party has drifted from the values of the common man, describing it as dominated by “Democratic Socialists” who “do not like our country” and “want to just destroy it.” He positions himself as a defender of freedom and traditional values.
Electoral outlook
The race is unique in the state because it features only three candidates: Kathol (Republican), Independent Peri Pourier and Democrat Celestine Stadnick. Kathol says his support includes Republicans, some independents and a number of Democrats who share his vision. “If they get out to vote on November 3rd, there’s no reason why I cannot flip this seat red,” he asserted.
The national Republican committee has taken notice, with Kathol noting that the party sees an opportunity to make history in the district. “They are watching this race very closely because they think I can make history in this district—in flipping this open seat,” he said.
Local significance
District 27 encompasses a diverse mix of rural farms, Native American reservations and growing suburban communities. Residents have expressed both optimism and concern about the upcoming election, recognizing that the outcome could shape policy on water infrastructure, agricultural support and cultural preservation across the region.
While Kathol’s platform stresses traditional values and economic stewardship, his opponents bring their own perspectives. Independent candidate Peri Pourier is focusing on public safety, and Democratic candidate Celestine Stadnick is campaigning on criminal‑justice reform. Voters will have a clear set of choices as the campaign heads into the final months before Election Day.
What’s next
Kathol’s campaign will continue to tour the district, holding town‑hall meetings and visiting farms and churches to connect with constituents. He urges voters to register early and to bring a friend to the polls on November 3rd.
For more information on voting locations, registration deadlines and candidate statements, visit the South Dakota Secretary of State’s website.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
