Congressman Dusty Johnson Answers Student Questions

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South Dakota's lone House Representative Dusty Johnson visited Dakota Valley High School on Tuesday, taking questions from students on issues ranging from Middle East policy to abortion. Johnson said the legislature's top priority when it reconvenes will be funding the Department of Homeland Security, and he criticized government shutdowns as 'stupid' and holding federal agencies 'hostage'. The congressman is also using his time away from Congress to campaign for the governor's office.

Why it matters

As a member of Congress, Dusty Johnson's interactions with constituents, especially young people, provide insight into the issues and concerns of South Dakotans. His visit to the high school demonstrates his efforts to engage with the next generation of voters and leaders.

The details

During his visit to Dakota Valley High School, Congressman Dusty Johnson answered questions from students on a variety of policy topics, including Middle East affairs and abortion legislation. Johnson stated that the legislature's top priority when it reconvenes will be securing funding for the Department of Homeland Security, and he criticized government shutdowns as counterproductive, saying they 'hold federal agencies and workers hostage'.

• Congressman Dusty Johnson visited Dakota Valley High School on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
• The South Dakota legislature is set to reconvene in the near future.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Congressman Johnson is expected to continue his campaign for the South Dakota governor's office in the coming months.